Finding Peace and Purpose in the Age of AI

Every growing business faces the same challenge of keeping up with constant change without burning out. As technology accelerates, especially with AI changing how we work, the leaders who thrive aren't necessarily the busiest or most technical. They're the ones who stay adaptable and grounded in purpose.

This idea was at the heart of my recent conversation with growth advisor Justin Winstead, CEO of Improver Group and author of Become an Improver. Justin works with leaders to build the mindset and systems needed to stay focused, balanced, and effective in unpredictable times.

But the truth is… even with the right mindset, sustainable growth doesn't happen by accident. It requires clarity. That's where strategic financial leadership comes in. I'll share more on that at the end of the blog. First, let's look at what I learned from Justin about building an adaptive mindset.

🎥 For more context watch the full conversation below!

Your Greatest Asset Is An Adaptive Mindset

In the age of AI, the only non-negotiable trait for survival is adaptability. Trying to follow every trend or cling to old methods is a recipe for failure.

"The mindset of being adaptable is more important than narrowing in on one specific thing," Justin said, reflecting on the shared mindset of the most successful founders and leaders.

Your competitive advantage isn't found in a specific technology or product; it's found in your flexibility. Every technological shift, like the move from the horse drawn carriage to the automobile, rewards those who commit to mastering a new way of doing business.

The Relational Advantage

As AI handles more tasks, the true value of a leader shifts from transactional efficiency to relational intelligence. This is the one skill AI cannot automate.

The job of the modern leader is not to execute more tasks, but to provide human value. Leaders must focus on the qualities that build genuine connection, particularly:

• Self awareness and self control
• Being a better communicator and a more empowering leader

If people are craving belonging, then this is where your time and energy matter most. Strengthening relationships and leading with authenticity are the most reliable ways to future-proof your leadership.

Start Chasing Peace

Most leaders confuse ambition with fulfillment. Justin clarifies there are two distinct types of purpose, and you need both to avoid the feeling of emptiness:

Natural Purpose

This is aligning your talents and passions with a market need. This path naturally leads to profit.

Divine Purpose

This is living out the mission you were created for. This path is the only one that leads to peace.
If you only chase natural purpose, you will succeed and make money, but you will still feel empty. Fulfillment requires the intentional work of aligning both. To do this, you must update your internal "soundtracks" or core beliefs that dictate your actions.

The Improver Ruck

How do you change those core beliefs? Try Justin's formula:

Change your thoughts → Change your attitudes/beliefs → Change your actions → Build your habits → Create your life.

To reinforce this mindset, he recommends one consistent, physical practice: The Improver Ruck.

The Ruck involves walking or hiking outdoors with a weighted vest or backpack. The weight adds challenge, but the goal is connection; building people up while moving together outside.

Actionable Advice

Find people who lift you up and commit to regular outdoor walks. Use that time for encouragement and intentional conversation. This simple habit can lead to better thinking, stronger relationships, and measurable improvement in both mindset and performance.

Final Take: Financial Clarity Starts with Trust

As Justin emphasized, growth without clarity eventually leads to burnout. That's why Shane created this interview series: to introduce his network to trusted advisors who help leaders build both peace and performance.

Whether you're scaling quickly or trying to gain control of your finances, these lessons apply across industries. And if you need a trusted guide to help you make sense of it all...

📅 Book a Free CFO Strategy Call with Shane

Bender CFO Services works with growth-minded businesses that want the clarity, forecasting, and insight of a full-time CFO — without the cost. From profitability strategy to cash flow and financial systems, Shane and his team help you lead with confidence and improve results month over month.