WELCOME TO THE ARENA

Life isn’t without its challenges. As Theodore Roosevelt’s famous Man in the Arena speech reminds us, it’s not the critic who counts, but the one in the arena—whose face is marred by dust, sweat, and blood; who strives valiantly; who endures the trials and still dares greatly. It’s in the arena where we find both the struggle and the reward—and where the ability to endure can change everything.

If you’re here, it means you believe life is too important to settle for the status quo. Like my friends and I, you’re convinced we’re called to break free from average—not just in what we do, but in who we are becoming and the impact we make for others. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, coach, athlete, innovator, or student of life, you feel the pull to rise above mediocrity and pursue something greater—something bigger than yourself.

Breaking average isn’t a solo journey. It’s about connecting with others who are intentional, creative, and driven to make a difference. Together, we step beyond the comfort zone and into the potential zone—where growth and transformation happen.

Welcome to this shared mission. Here, you’ll find insights and strategies to help you thrive in life, excel in leadership, and build a legacy that matters.

Paul Gustavson

Paul Gustavson is the author of IMAGINE and BREAKING AVERAGE, books that empower readers to lead themselves and their teams effectively. A leader in the GovCon tech industry, Paul is a frequent speaker and a passionate advocate for personal, cultural, and technical innovation.

As the co-founder of SimVentions—recognized as one of the best places to work—Paul has dedicated his career to advancing engineering solutions while fostering a culture of leadership, creativity, and integrity. A person of faith, Paul approaches his work and life with a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to making a positive impact. He also co-hosts The Breaking Average Podcast, where he shares real stories, actionable insights, and strategies for building a meaningful and lasting legacy.