High-achieving professionals who find themselves coasting despite past accomplishments now have a roadmap to reignite their ambition through a new framework developed by Chris Robinson, Executive Vice President of Maxwell Leadership and author of From Drift to Drive: A High Achiever’s Guide to Breaking the Chains of Complacency.
The book addresses a paradox facing many successful leaders: the very achievements that once drove them forward can become anchors holding them back. Robinson identifies this phenomenon as “success-induced complacency,” a state where accomplished professionals stop reaching for more because their past wins have dulled their competitive edge.
“A decision to take action, to grow, and to refuse to let complacency have the final say. That’s what this book is about,” says Dr. John C. Maxwell, the world’s most influential leadership expert and founder of Maxwell Leadership.
Drawing from over a decade of experience within the Maxwell Leadership organization, first as a member and later as part of the executive team, Robinson has developed a seven-step framework designed to help leaders break free from professional drift. The methodology focuses on resetting ambition, clarifying vision, and reigniting the drive that initially propelled careers forward.
Robinson’s approach resonates particularly with entrepreneurs and corporate leaders who appear to “have it all” yet sense they’re operating below their potential. His work as a keynote speaker and executive coach has taken him around the world, where he’s witnessed firsthand how even the most successful professionals can fall into patterns of complacency.
“Chris Robinson has delivered a powerful message that every leader needs to hear. From Drift to Drive isn’t just a book—for some it’s a wake-up call, for Chris it is a lifestyle,” notes Mark Cole, CEO of Maxwell Leadership.
The book’s release comes at a time when many professionals are reassessing their career trajectories following years of disruption and change. Robinson’s framework offers practical tools for those ready to move beyond maintenance mode and pursue meaningful growth.
Eric Thomas, PhD, motivational speaker and author of You Owe You, emphasizes the book’s practical impact: “Chris Robinson’s From Drift to Drive is a game-changer! I’ve seen too many people stuck in the cycle of drifting through life, wondering why they’re not reaching their fullest potential. Chris breaks down exactly what it takes to shift gears and start driving towards your dreams with purpose and passion.”
As a father of six who rose from humble beginnings to global influence, Robinson brings personal transparency to his work. His story and methodology have made him a regular guest on the Maxwell Leadership Podcast, where he shares insights on breaking through professional plateaus.
The leadership development expert’s message extends beyond individual transformation to team dynamics. His consulting work focuses on helping entire organizations recognize and overcome collective complacency, creating cultures that continuously push boundaries rather than rest on past achievements.
“Chris Robinson delivers a powerful, no-nonsense guide for leaders who refuse to settle. If you’ve ever felt like you’re moving but not progressing, busy but not fulfilled, From Drift to Drive will show you how to wake up, step up, and lead at a higher level,” says Valorie Burton, CEO of the Coaching and Positive Psychology Institute and author of Rules of Resilience.
Robinson’s framework challenges the conventional wisdom that success breeds more success. Instead, he argues that without intentional effort to maintain drive and ambition, even the most accomplished professionals can find themselves going through the motions rather than pursuing meaningful progress.
The book and Robinson’s speaking engagements offer a counter-narrative to the burnout discussions dominating leadership circles. Rather than advocating for stepping back, Robinson provides tools for stepping up—but with renewed purpose and clarity rather than blind ambition.
For event planners and organizations seeking speakers who can challenge high-performing teams to reach new levels, Robinson’s message offers a unique perspective on sustained excellence. His combination of Maxwell Leadership credentials, personal experience, and practical frameworks positions him as a voice for leaders ready to transform good into great.
