Things That Matter: A Practical Guide For Leadership & Life

Unlock the Leader Within: A Practical Guide to the “Things That Matter”

What if leadership wasn’t about titles or authority, but about principles that inspire people to be their best—in business, family, and community? Whether you're a first-time manager, a team lead, or someone navigating adversity while trying to lead others, Things That Matter offers clear, actionable steps from a lifetime of leadership.

In this concise and powerful guide, Lonnie Alcantara Essex shares ten essential leadership principles—forged through personal trials, professional growth, and decades of experience in general management and business leadership. These aren’t abstract theories. They are the practical, timeless fundamentals that helped him lead through crisis, build resilient teams, and influence others with purpose.

From Effective Communication to Predictive Follow-Up and Continuous Improvement, each principle is brought to life with real-world context and a deep personal narrative, making this book a relatable, empowering read for:

• New and emerging leaders
• Managers seeking a leadership reset
• Professionals at a career cross road
• Coaches, mentors, and educators
• Anyone who wants to lead with clarity and heart
• Entreprenuers and small business owners