Clearing the Path to Happiness

with Rick Piraino of Living as a Leader

We all carry an ego with us, quietly shaping how we see ourselves and the world. At its best, the ego helps us build a sense of identity and navigate life as individuals. But in its effort to keep us safe, it becomes hypervigilant—constantly scanning for threats, even when none truly exist.

This is where trouble begins. Self‑criticism, judging ourselves and others, chronic worry—these are the ego’s misguided attempts to protect us. Yet a life spent bracing for danger can never deliver the peace and happiness the ego promises. When one imagined threat fades, it immediately finds another.

In this conversation, we’ll explore the ego—its nature, its habits, and the self‑defeating strategies it uses in the pursuit of happiness. We’ll also look at practical ways to live more fully in the present moment, quiet the mind, and bring greater focus and effectiveness to your daily life.

 If you want to become a better leader, you must first become a better person. Consider this your invitation to take the next steps toward both.

Bio on Rick Piraino

Rick Piraino is a speaker, educator, and executive coach with more than 45 years of experience helping leaders and organizations perform at their best.

Since 1996, he has partnered with organizations nationwide to build cultures of excellence through leadership development, performance management, conflict resolution, and executive coaching. He is the author of Responsibility-Based Performance Management, a practical, systemic approach to culture change, and his leadership work has appeared in state and national publications.

Rick’s presentations deliver practical tools leaders can use immediately—while challenging them to raise self-awareness, personal responsibility, and integrity. Known for his humor, real-world stories, and engaging style, he creates a high-trust learning environment that turns insight into action. Participants leave energized, confident, and ready to lead.

Rick is Covey 7 Habits–certified and has worked with organizations of 20 to 1,600 employees across manufacturing, service, education, and printing industries. He holds a BS from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and an MS from the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh.

This session is pending for SHRM Professional Development Credits (PDCs) and HRCI re-certification credits.

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Thank You to our Annual Sponsor!

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