Becoming the Compass by Ryan Crittenden

Becoming the Compass by Ryan Crittenden

Becoming the Compass by Ryan Crittenden, Ph.D., is a transformative leadership fable that follows Alex, an emerging leader in the rigid world of Horizon Valley, where traditional, top-down leadership is failing. Under the mentorship of the wise Casey, Alex begins a journey of self-discovery, learning to lead with authenticity, connection, and courage. The story unveils four key principles—Relational Strength, Authentic Presence, Purposeful Resilience, and Growth Through Challenge—that guide readers toward people-centered leadership. Perfect for new leaders, team managers, or anyone disillusioned by outdated leadership models, this engaging narrative combines storytelling with actionable insights. Becoming the Compass invites readers to not just follow great mentors, but to become them—emphasizing that true leadership comes not from control, but from cultivating trust and inspiring others through who we are, not just what we do.

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Author Bio:

Ryan Crittenden, Ph. D., is a leadership coach, Army veteran, and founder of XL Coaching and Development. He holds a doctorate in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and is certified in Gallup CliftonStrengths, The Six Types of Working Genius, and the John Maxwell Team. Ryan equips leaders to grow by leading from who they are—not who they think they need to be.

Ryan blends strengths-based development with emotional intelligence to help leaders build trust, navigate uncertainty, and lead with purpose. His core belief is that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about asking better questions, fostering clarity, and empowering others to thrive.

Ryan’s leadership philosophy is rooted in a formative experience early in his career. After being dismissed by one superior, another leader chose to connect with him on a personal level—a simple gesture that reshaped his view of leadership. That moment fuels his conviction that leadership starts with connection.

In his work, Ryan challenges the myth that great leaders all look or act the same. Instead, he teaches that the most effective leaders lead authentically from their strengths, not through mimicry or perfectionism. Leadership, he believes, is measured by sustainable progress and meaningful impact.