If given the chance to rewind the clock, what wisdom would leaders share with their younger selves? The conversations on It’s Personal Stories reveal that while each journey is unique, the advice they would pass along reflects common themes of courage, authenticity, and balance. These insights serve not only as a reminder of their growth but also as a guide for the next generation of leaders.

1. Embrace Courage Early

Fear of failure often holds back young professionals from taking bold steps. Elie Maalouf, CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts, reflected: “I would tell my younger self not to wait until you feel completely ready. Take the leap sooner.” For many leaders, growth has come from stretching beyond comfort zones, not waiting for perfect preparation.

2. Build Your Network Intentionally

Success in hospitality is rarely a solo act. Lindsey Ueberroth, CEO of Preferred Hotels & Resorts, emphasized the power of relationships: “Every connection is a chance to learn and to give back. I wish I had started cultivating those relationships even earlier.” Networking, when approached with authenticity, builds social capital that compounds over time.

3. Perfection is an Illusion

Young leaders often pressure themselves to be flawless. Carolyne Doyon, President and CEO of Club Med for North America and the Caribbean, offered a counterpoint: “Perfection is an illusion. Progress matters more than perfection.” Allowing room for mistakes not only accelerates learning but also helps leaders develop resilience and empathy.  Additionally, maintaining a veneer of perfection can make it harder to both ask for and to receive valuable advice from potential mentors.

4. Speak Up and Be Seen

For many, self-advocacy takes years to master. Dorothy Dowling, Co-Founder of It’s Personal Stories and Managing Director of Horwath HTL, shared: “I would tell my younger self to raise my hand sooner and make my aspirations known. Others can only help chart your path if they know where you want to go.” Visibility, she reminds us, is not about arrogance but about clarity and courage.

5. Measuring Success Beyond Titles

Ambition can sometimes create the temptation to define success narrowly by promotions or recognition. Mit Shah, CEO of Noble Investment Group, reflected: “I wish I had understood earlier that success is not measured by titles alone. It’s also about the relationships you nurture along the way.” His insight underscores that true achievement lies not only in career milestones but also in the depth of trust, respect, and connections built throughout the journey. Ultimately, when leaders look back at retirement, they will be remembered less for the titles they held and more for the people they uplifted and the relationships they fostered.

6. Trust Your Authentic Self

Perhaps the most universal advice is about authenticity. Tony Capuano, President & CEO of Marriott International, distilled it simply: “Don’t try to be someone else. The earlier you embrace who you are, the stronger and more credible your leadership becomes.” Authenticity fosters trust, and trust is the currency of effective leadership.

Closing Thought

The advice these leaders would offer to their younger selves reveals both vulnerability and wisdom. They remind us to take risks sooner, build relationships with intention, accept imperfection, speak up, seek balance, and trust in authenticity. For those starting their careers, or even those well into them, these lessons serve as a compass, pointing toward a leadership journey that is not only successful but also deeply fulfilling.