What’s With the Boots?
Yes, my boots are untied. No, it’s not a prison reference. Lately, people ask: “Why always boots? Why the rolled-up sleeves?” It isn’t about fashion, it’s about mindset, work ethic, and tribute to my roots.
“Your uniform tells a story before you even speak.”
The Boots, My Blue-Collar Badge
At 16, I joined my volunteer fire company. I needed footwear I could step out of in a heartbeat when the alarm rang. Over decades, that instinct stuck.
But it goes deeper. My dad worked factory shifts for 40 years, teaching me early: show up before sunrise, earn every penny, take no shortcuts. From roofing, operating cranes, rebuilding tractor engines, or mucking stalls, wearing boots reminds me of where I come from and why I never shy away from the hard work ahead.
The Rolled-Up Sleeves, Ready for Anything
Why are my sleeves always rolled up? Because I’m always ready to work physically, emotionally, and intellectually.
Whether it’s:
- Cleaning a clogged gutter
- Diagnosing a diesel-soaked tractor engine
- Re-scoping a product feature in the boardroom
- Coaching a team through change
rolled-up sleeves signal one thing: “Let’s go. I’m in.”
“Leadership isn’t about giving orders, it’s about digging in beside your team.”
Two Lessons from the Hustler’s Uniform
Lesson 1: Honor Your Roots to Fuel Your Vision
When you stay connected to your origins, your family values, early jobs, or first mentors, you carry that authenticity into every project. It keeps you humble, hungry, and human.
“Never forget the soil that nourished your roots; it’s the same soil that gives your branches strength.”
Actionable Advice: Pick one daily ritual that reminds you of why you started. For me, it’s lacing up the same boots my dad taught me to tie.
Lesson 2: Lead by Example, Not by Title
Rolling your sleeves up isn’t a fashion statement, it’s a declaration. People trust leaders who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.
“Strategy is important, but credibility is built at the elbow grease level.”
Actionable Advice: Next time you’re in a meeting, volunteer for the toughest next step, research the data, clean up the process, or draft the first outline. You’ll earn respect and momentum faster than any PowerPoint.
The Deeper Why
My boots and sleeves aren’t just personal branding, they’re the legacy I want for my kids:
“I want my children to cherish the pride of hard work, the kind that leaves you exhausted, humbled, and deeply satisfied.”
Seeing them understand that love for people, love for honest work, and gratitude for every hard-earned achievement, that’s my North Star.
We’re Here to Do the Work
Let’s skip the buzzwords, skip the slick decks. If you need real traction, boots on the ground, sleeves rolled up, and a team that genuinely cares, let’s connect. I promise:
No fluff, just results.
🔗 Learn more at brian-seguin.com