Lou Holtz’s 3 Rules for Life and LeadershipWhat if living a great life came down to just three simple rules?Legendary coach Lou Holtz often shared three principles that can transform the way you make decisions, lead others, and build meaningful relationships.They are simple.But when applied intentionally, they become a powerful framework for living a life by design.Lou Holtz’s three rules are:Do the right thingDo the best you canShow people you care In this video, filmed in Maui, I break down how these three principles can guide how you live and lead across the most important areas of life.BusinessRelationshipsFaithFinancesHealthWhen these ideas are applied through clear values and long-term thinking, they become a roadmap for building a life that wins across all areas.



























Rule #1: Do the Right ThingDoing the right thing begins with knowing your core values.When your values are clear, decision making becomes much easier because you have a filter to evaluate every opportunity and challenge.This is where second order thinking becomes powerful.Instead of asking only what happens next, you begin asking deeper questions:What are the long-term consequences of this decision?Where will this path lead two or three steps down the road?Will this decision move me closer to the person I want to become? Thinking this way leads to stronger leadership and better long-term outcomes.Thomas Jefferson once gave advice that captures this idea well:Swim with the current in style, but stand like a rock in principle.In other words, adapt when needed, but never compromise your principles.



























Rule #2: Do the Best You CanDoing your best does not mean exhausting yourself.It means showing up each day with focused and intentional effort.One powerful way to do this is by replacing your traditional to-do list with a success list.A success list focuses only on the handful of actions that truly move your life and work forward.Instead of trying to accomplish everything, you identify the few priorities that create real progress.This approach creates more clarity, less stress, and better results.



























Rule #3: Show People You CareLeadership is not only about results. It is about people.When people feel seen, valued, and appreciated, trust grows.Strong relationships are built when care is communicated consistently through actions such as:Listening intentionallyOffering encouragementRecognizing effortExpressing gratitude When people know you care about them as individuals, loyalty and collaboration naturally follow.