Risk

I do not consider myself to be much of a risk taker.  Maybe that is not totally true since I am a small business owner.  Unfortunately, not much in life can be accomplished without risk.  A risk-free life might feel safe and comfortable, but it may also feel empty and lacking purpose or direction.  I cannot think of anybody that I consider successful who has not taken risks.  In fact, most have failed multiple times on their path to success.  Risk taking is even more important to leaders.  As leaders, we must often take the risks that others are not willing to take.  We take the risk for the team.  Consider these quotes…

"Progress involves risk. You can't steal second base and keep your foot on first."

            - Frederick Wilcox   

"Leaders take risks. That's not to say that they are reckless, because good leaders aren't. But they don't always take the safest route. Rarely can a person break ground and play it safe at the same time."

            - John C. Maxwell - The Right to Lead

Happy Memorial Day!

The purpose for Memorial Day remains the same, don’t forget that, but this one is totally different.  It still marks the beginning of summer, but we will not be celebrating in normal fashion.  Graduations abound this time of year, but they are not being held the same way.  Vacations usually begin next week, but will they?  It is time for outdoor concerts and festivals, but not this year.  It feels different because our world is different. 

Memorial Day is the day to remember those who gave their lives for the freedoms we enjoy in this country.  Celebrate safely and remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice.  Their sacrifice puts our being stuck at home a few weeks into perspective.

Influence & Intentionality

True leadership is about influence.  It is not about titles or positions. True leadership is the ability to influence others in a positive way and towards a common goal. It is not magic and usually does not happen naturally.  It requires deliberate and intentional behaviors and practices.  Influential people move through life with a purpose.  They are constantly aware of how their actions and behaviors influence others.  Great leaders look for way to intentionally use their influence to help others grow.     

Do you use your influence intentionally? 

Note:  The MMM actually began in 2004.  Thanks for all our diligent followers who pointed out the 2014 typo last week.