Grit, Identity, and Self-Leadership: Why Working Hard Isn’t Enough with guest David Ask

In this episode of The Self-Leadership Lab, Bobby sits down with entrepreneur, musician, and leadership thinker David Ask for a wide-ranging conversation about grit, identity, values, and what it really means to lead yourself. We often celebrate grit, hustle, and determination but rarely stop to ask an important question: What if we’re applying grit to the wrong things? David challenges the idea that working harder always leads to fulfillment and instead points to alignment, values, and identity as the true foundation of sustainable leadership. Together, Bobby and David explore how misplaced identity leads to burnout, why being “successful at the wrong things” is a real danger, and how self-awareness, not hustle, is what allows grit to actually serve us rather than exhaust us. This conversation weaves together leadership, personal growth, faith, purpose, and practical wisdom, offering a grounded perspective for anyone who feels driven but disconnected. What You’ll Hear in This Episode Why grit alone isn’t enough The difference between grit, steadfastness, and hustle How values create traction, or friction, in your life Why identity must come before motivation The danger of being successful at the wrong things How childhood experiences shape self-leadership Humility as a strength, not a weakness Why clarity beats effort when it comes to fulfillment How faith and purpose restore order and direction Who This Episode Is For Leaders who feel burned out despite working hard High performers questioning their direction Anyone navigating identity, purpose, or alignment Listeners interested in values-based leadership Those seeking a deeper, more grounded approach to self-leadership Key Takeaway Grit is powerful; but only when it’s anchored to the right values and identity. Without alignment, determination becomes exhaustion instead of progress. Subscribe & Stay Connected If this episode resonated with you, follow The Self-Leadership Lab on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share it with someone who’s grinding hard but questioning why. Connect with David Website: https://www.davidaskmusic.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thedavidask/ Email: [email protected] Connect with Bobby Instagram: @theselfleadershiplab LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/dr-bobby-shelton-dsl-pmp-acc-124502b Podcast: The Self-Leadership Lab (Available on Apple or Spotify) Website: ⁠www.battlecatcoaching.com⁠ Book: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FT68RCB1⁠ Substack: https://bobbyshelton.substack.com/ self leadership, grit, leadership podcast, values based leadership, identity and purpose, hustle culture burnout, personal development, faith and leadership, self awareness, motivation vs discipline, authentic leadership, purpose driven life, leadership mindset, emotional intelligence, Bobby Shelton, David Ask