As organizations approach 2026 planning, leadership expert Rocky Romanella emphasizes that success depends on values-driven leadership and strategic vision. In his newsletter article "To Go Where No Company Has Gone Before In 2026 And Beyond," Romanella argues that leaders must become "Visionary Thinkers" who maintain long-term perspectives while addressing immediate challenges.
Romanella stresses that leadership extends beyond authority to include inspiring trust, fostering innovation, and nurturing teams. He identifies the fourth quarter as a critical reflection period where companies should assess year-to-date results and develop forward-looking strategies. "Our people and our organizations need us to be Visionary Thinkers," Romanella writes, noting that effective leaders stimulate breakthrough ideas and develop innovative solutions.
The foundation of Romanella's approach rests on organizational values that guide decision-making and culture. His outlined values include recognizing employees as vital assets, maintaining integrity and excellence, embracing change, and fostering teamwork. "Our Values provide clarity about who we are as a company, how we will conduct ourselves, and how we wish to be viewed by others," Romanella explains in his newsletter, available at https://3sixtymanagementservices.com.
Romanella's bestselling book "Tighten The Lug Nuts: The Principles Of Balanced Leadership" recently achieved number one bestseller status in business management categories. The book draws from his forty-plus years of experience at UPS and explores how leaders can guide organizations to new success levels. Romanella's approach encourages leaders to move beyond initial solutions, with the book offering practical frameworks applicable to various leadership roles.
The leadership expert also hosts The Leadership Library Podcast, now in its ninth season, which covers topics including trust, soft skills, goal setting, and strategic vision. New episodes are posted weekly through 2025 at https://tightenthelugnuts.com. Romanella's podcast library contains over 108 episodes that examine leadership competencies in depth.
Additional resources available through Romanella's platform include training videos, keynote speaking materials, and leadership competency frameworks. His website at https://3sixtymanagementservices.com offers access to these materials, including his Forbes Business Council contributions at https://www.3sixtymanagementservices.com/forbes-business-council/. Romanella's book cover recently received first place in The Authors Show® 2024 Book Cover contest, with results viewable at https://wnbnetworkwest.com/index.php/book-cover-contest-2024-vote?page=1.
Romanella's balanced leadership model emphasizes alignment between organizational values, employee empowerment, and shareholder expectations. As companies prepare for 2026, his resources provide frameworks for developing the visionary thinking and values-based decision-making needed to navigate uncertain business landscapes successfully.
