Ep 228 - The Power of the Pause: Warren Rustand on Commitment, Character, and Leading with Discipline

Warren Rustand is more than a seasoned entrepreneur and former White House Appointments Secretary — he’s a mentor to leaders across the globe, a passionate advocate for intentional living, and someone who’s spent decades helping others uncover their best selves. In Episode 228 of Paper Napkin Wisdom, Warren shares the essence of leadership in one quiet, powerful quote: 

"When you ask someone a commitment question, don't speak until you are given an answer." 

It’s a lesson in restraint, respect, and trust. And it perfectly embodies the kind of leader Warren is — someone who believes that real transformation happens not in what we say, but in how we listen and how we wait. 

The Moment of Commitment Is Sacred 

Warren’s paper napkin insight reminds us that commitment is a turning point. Whether in business, relationships, or leadership, the moment we ask someone to commit to something is loaded with meaning. And yet, too often we sabotage it by rushing in to clarify, soften, or over-explain. 

Warren explains, “When you ask someone a commitment question, and you fill the space with more words, you take away their opportunity to reflect and respond.” The pause, he says, is where transformation lives. It’s not silence — it’s space for choice. 

He challenges us to resist the urge to jump in. When we allow someone to sit with a question, we are respecting their agency. It’s a move that builds accountability and deepens trust. 

Rhythm, Discipline, and Intentional Living 

The conversation widens as Warren shares the practices that have shaped his life — none more central than his “Rhythm of Life”. For over four decades, he has started each day by writing down five key intentions: one each for physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and family domains. 

“If I can do those five things in a day, that’s a great day. And if I can stack enough of those days, I can build a great life.” 

This rhythm isn’t about perfection. It’s about momentum. It’s a way to live with clarity and intention in a noisy, distracted world. For Warren, discipline is not restrictive — it’s liberating. It creates structure so that spontaneity and presence can thrive. 

Character-Driven Leadership 

Warren’s life journey is steeped in high-stakes leadership — from the halls of the White House to the boardrooms of top companies. But what sets him apart is his unwavering focus on character. 

“Leadership is not a title. It’s not about power. It’s about integrity and consistency.” 

He believes that before we can lead others, we must lead ourselves. That begins with knowing who we are, what we stand for, and living those values with discipline and heart. “The people closest to you — your family, your team — they know when you’re aligned and when you’re not.” 

Success vs. Significance 

One of the most profound parts of the episode is Warren’s reflection on the difference between success and significance. “Success is what we do for ourselves. Significance is what we do for others.” It’s a lens that reframes achievement. It’s not about the titles or accolades — it’s about impact. 

And that impact often begins in the quietest moments — in the way we ask, in the way we wait, in the way we honor someone else’s decision to commit. 

This episode is a masterclass in quiet power — in living with rhythm, leading with integrity, and using silence as a tool for connection and transformation. 

 

5 Key Takeaways from My Conversation with Warren Rustand 

1. Don’t Interrupt the Weight of a Commitment Question 

Warren’s napkin wisdom says it all. When you ask a commitment question, hold the space. The silence allows the other person to step into their responsibility. 

“You rob them of their decision if you speak too soon.” 

Take Action: Practice asking one commitment question this week—and wait. Count to ten if you have to, but don’t interrupt the answer. 

2. Lead Yourself Before You Try to Lead Others 

True leadership begins with self-discipline. Warren’s daily “rhythm of life” is a five-part intentionality framework that touches every important aspect of his being. 

“Physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, and family—if I do something in each area every day, that’s a win.” 

Take Action: Create your own daily rhythm. Write down 1 small, specific action for each category. Track it for 7 days. 

3. Clarity and Integrity Are Foundational to Influence 

Warren’s leadership philosophy hinges on alignment between values and actions. You can’t ask for commitment from others if you’re not living it yourself. 

“People follow consistency and authenticity. That’s what builds trust.” 

Take Action: Choose one value and ask yourself: “How am I living this out today?” Journal the answer each evening for a week. 

4. The Greatest Leaders Know When to Stay Silent 

Sometimes, it’s not about having the best words—it’s about letting others rise to the moment. 

“If you fill the space, you fill it with your intent. Silence gives space for theirs.” 

Take Action: In your next 1:1 or team meeting, resist the urge to answer your own question. Let the silence speak. 

5. Significance Comes from Building Others, Not Just Building Businesses 

For Warren, a life of success isn’t enough—it must lead to significance. That means investing in people, relationships, and legacy. 

“The question is: Who will be better because you lived?” 

Take Action: Identify one person in your life you can mentor. Set up a time to connect and offer your support. 

This episode is a gift — not just in content, but in tone. It’s an invitation to slow down, ask meaningful questions, and let silence do the work. Warren Rustand reminds us that leadership is not about force. It’s about presence, purpose, and the power of the pause. 

📝 What was your biggest takeaway from Warren’s napkin wisdom? Write it on a real napkin and share it on social with the hashtag #PaperNapkinWisdom. 

Connect with Warren here: 

https://warrenrustand.com/  

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Warren_S._Rustand