Monthly Archives: December 2012

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Closing Out The Year

Today’s the last day of the year. The sun is setting on 2012. Three hundred and sixty six days passed this year. That’s 366 chances to have made a difference in the world.

Did you lead better this year? Did you do the things you desired to do? Did you reach to new heights?

Peggys Cover Sunset

Image By Paul Bica

I hope you did. I know you have the potential to do great things. The world is at your fingertips waiting for you to step out and take the next step. Are you willing to seize the day?

I Am

There’s been a lot of frustration in life as I’ve held back and not stepped forward as much as I should have. There have been work, family, and church situations that called for me to step up and be a better leader and I failed.  Read more...

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The Creative Leader

I’m a writer, a teacher, a musician and a single dad. I’ve never really thought of myself as a leader, but more a teller of stories, a speaker of lessons, a spinner of songs and a maker of rules.

Although I’ve not considered myself a leader, I have considered the subtle influences creative individuals can have on others and the world around us. It might break the mold of traditional leadership, but the creative leader can bring lasting change.

Mixed Media Painting (Detail) by Choichun Leung / Dumbo Arts Cen

Image by See-Ming Lee

The Writer:  Throughout history, great writers have shown that the pen, is indeed, mightier than the sword. From the early canons of the Bible to the four Gospels, writers helped to shape the very heart of Christianity.

Classic books such as To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee; The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck; The Jungle by Upton Sinclair; and Silent Spring by Rachel Carson have all helped to create longstanding social change in our nation.  Read more...

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Be A Person Of Action

Who around you has become successful? Can you name off the traits that have helped them rise above the difficulties?

If you name them off, one of the traits of the successful person is that they are a person of action.

And if you want to be a successful leader, you’ll have to learn how to take action as well.

I am a person of action is the third decision in Andy Andrews’ book The Traveler’s Gift. I wrote about the two previous decisions in previous posts. They were I Will Seek Wisdom and The Buck Stops With Me.

Each decision in The Traveler’s Gift is a decision every leader should make. From taking personal responsibility to continuing to gain wisdom to choosing to be happy. Each decision will increase your value as a leader.  Read more...

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Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas

Have yourself a merry christmas

Today is a special day. It’s Christmas. I encourage you to take time today to celebrate the meaning of this wonderful day.

Approximately 2000 years ago, a savior was born into this world. He came to save us and give us a hope of eternity.

Spend the day with friends and family. Share your most valuable resource with them, your time.

If you can’t spend time with those you want to, give them a call. Send them a message. Video chat with them.

Do something to show those around you that you care for them.

With that, I wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas today.

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Listening And Looking

Leaders are meant to pave the path. To lead the way. To go into the unknown.

The path may be unclear. That’s why leaders must possess two traits.

Leaders must be willing to listen and to look.

Mount Washington

Image by Izzard

Why Listen

Some people may wonder why leaders need to be willing to listen. They’re leaders after all. They’re the ones going ahead. There’s no reason they need to listen.

Sorry buddy, those who say this are wrong. In a major way.

It’s like in mountain climbing. As you’re ascending the mountain, you’ve got to keep your ears open for dangers.

You may experience rockslides, other climbers who are dangerous, or to hear your own voice once you’ve reached the summit.

Listening allows you to HEAR the dangers you may be coming upon.  Read more...