Book Preview - Part I

As we approach the publishing process, I’d like to give you a preview of the book’s content. This week, let’s start with Part I…

Part I: The Inner Work – Leadership That Starts with Purpose

Before you can lead others with authenticity, you need to understand who you are and what you stand for. In Part I of Built on Purpose, we explore the inner work of leadership; an often overlooked but critical foundation for any lasting cultural or strategic success.

Chapter 1: People Are Always Watching

Leadership begins with self-awareness. It’s the foundational trait that shapes how we show up, how we’re perceived, and how we grow. This chapter explores the ripple effect leaders create through their presence, decisions, and demeanor, often without realizing it. Drawing from early career experiences and wisdom from other leaders, it highlights how humility, feedback, and intentional reflection aren’t solely personal virtues, but culture-shaping forces. Becoming an authentic, trusted leader starts by understanding yourself.

Chapter 2: What Are You “For”?

Strong leaders know what they stand for, not just what they’re trying to achieve. Here, we encourage deep reflection on personal and organizational purpose, and how alignment between the two creates clarity, consistency, and followership. Without that clarity, leadership becomes reactive, performative, and ultimately unsatisfying.

Chapter 3: The Power of Intentional Leadership

Leadership is not a series of grand gestures or speeches. It’s a practice of daily intentional actions that shape culture, build trust, and reinforce values. From first impressions to feedback, from tone-setting to standing up for your team, we discuss how being deliberate in small moments leads to big impact. Intentional leadership is the bridge between what we believe and how we lead.

Previews of Parts II and III are on their way in the coming weeks! If you know someone who may be interested in the book, please invite them to check out paulpetera.com for more details!