I really enjoyed how Covey presents the concept of being proactive. He starts out with the discussion of self-awareness and how that separates us from animals. He then presents the idea of a social mirror, where our nature that is presented to others, along with the perceptions of others (all through their own "colored glasses" of life) are not necessarily congruent. The visions of others may be quite disjointed and out of proportion, which as he states, can say a lot about their character. He then discusses the three main social "maps", or theories, of determinism - Genetic determinism (it's our Grandparents genetics that are at fault), Psychic determinism (it's our parent's fault), and Environmental determinism (it's everyone elses fault). The latter is related to Pavlov's famous drooling dog experiment where there is a response to a stimulus. It all comes together with the presentation that man, because of his self-awareness and ability to see himself distinctly from others around him, has the ability to choose. The freedom to choose becomes the basis for the habit of being proactive. Instead of having the environment, and genetics, and other's dictate our response to stimulus, we can choose to act differently because of our self-awareness, imagination, conscience, and independent will.
To me, being proactive is one of the most important qualifiers of good leadership. To be proactive is to have a mindset that is not reactive by nature. That is, by determining beforehand to, as Covey says, "subordinate an impulse to a value", we can make choices that are focused strategically toward our goals and objectives. Proactivity is a value based choice instead of an environmental reaction. A good leader will be able to proactively form or be part of the solution instead of only being able to see the problem (and then, as many people do, react out of fear.)
Covey mentions (pg 75) that being resourceful and taking initiative is what sets proactive people apart from reactive people. I see this a lot in my job and in my industry as a whole. Retailers and online solutions are very impacted by what people think, and if the customer thinks something should be different, it can generate a lot of angst amongst the leadership. If they are fear based, it will be a knee-jerk reaction. If they are proactive, they will be learning and planning for the future with short and long term solutions - seeing through the myriad of opinion generated from customers who will be long term purveyors and those who are there to just cause trouble. A proactive leader is innovating and working to provide what the customer's actually need, instead of just what they want right now. Customers are fickle people, but loyal customers have long term needs that can be met if they are sought out and solutions are designed accordingly (instead of just throwing out something because people are hollering). This same mindset is evident in many business segments.
The other thing that Covey talked about that I liked was the discussion of focusing efforts in a person's circle of influence (COI) rather than their circle of concern (COC). The COI is where a person can actually have influence and do something about issues and opportunities, where the COC, though important, may not be. Focusing in the COC just wastes time and resources and causes more stress - which of course makes us more and more inefficient and capable of delivering real solutions that can affect needed change.
I liked the suggestions made in the Application Suggestions (pg 93) and hope to do number 1 (listen to my language and see how proactive I'm being and number three (select a problem and evaluate it for COI vs COC and make steps toward COI). I'll blog on how it goes!
Monday, September 22, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
on being proactive
Steven Covey's "The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People" has been a great read. I have picked through the book before, but never read it straight through. I think that although I've heard the concepts before, I do feel like there have been some "Aha!" moments as I've been reading.
The forward of the book talks about a few of the most common human challenges we face.
More to come...
The forward of the book talks about a few of the most common human challenges we face.
- Fear and insecurity
- I want it now
- Blame and Victimization
- Hopelessness
- Lack of Life Balance
- "What's in it for me?" (WIIIFM)
- The hunger to be understood
- Conflict and Differences
- Personal Stagnation
More to come...
September 18th - Emotional Intelligence
When reading through essay 4, "The Emotional Intelligence of Leaders" in On Mission and Leadership, (Hesselbein & Johnson, 2002), I particularly enjoyed the section entitled, "The Anatomy of Emotions."
This section gave a high level description of how the limbic system in our brain processes emotional memory. The sensory information that we take in goes through our emotional memories to see if it is similar to a previous emotional experience. A connection may cause an emergency of sorts that results in some emotional response, but then may be "rephrased" as it is proccessed by the prefrontal cortex which takes information from all over the brain to form a final response. The interesting thing to me was that we have an emotional filter that doesn't allow us to separate thought from emotion. Our emotional brain and thinking brain must work together.
This is significant because it tells me that even the most logical and thought out reasoning cannot truly be separated from our emotional experiences. More specifically, it seems that reasoned thought cannot be separated from experience, and hence worldview. Since worldview is formed from an experiential as well as informational foundation, we find bias and differing perspectives that arise from the same set of "information." (This is very similar to what Stephen Covey talks about in "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" when he is discussing paradigms on page 23 of that book.)
The five dimensions of Emotional Intelligence are:
This section gave a high level description of how the limbic system in our brain processes emotional memory. The sensory information that we take in goes through our emotional memories to see if it is similar to a previous emotional experience. A connection may cause an emergency of sorts that results in some emotional response, but then may be "rephrased" as it is proccessed by the prefrontal cortex which takes information from all over the brain to form a final response. The interesting thing to me was that we have an emotional filter that doesn't allow us to separate thought from emotion. Our emotional brain and thinking brain must work together.
This is significant because it tells me that even the most logical and thought out reasoning cannot truly be separated from our emotional experiences. More specifically, it seems that reasoned thought cannot be separated from experience, and hence worldview. Since worldview is formed from an experiential as well as informational foundation, we find bias and differing perspectives that arise from the same set of "information." (This is very similar to what Stephen Covey talks about in "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" when he is discussing paradigms on page 23 of that book.)
The five dimensions of Emotional Intelligence are:
- Self awareness. This is your minds ability to summarize known information and past experiences to give you a "gut feeling" and then reconcile decisions based on your values, purpose, and mission. Effective leaders will have a good sense of self awareness in terms of their strengths, weaknesses, and abilities, which leads to self confidence and often better performance.
- Managing Emotions. The ability to manage emotions has to do with controlling impulses and reducing emotional agitation (like stress, failure to adapt, failure to lead). Managing emotion is having self control which forms the basis for trust, integrity, and other positive traits.
- Motivating Others. The root meaning of motive is "to move." Strong feelings or emotion that has goals and perceptions embedded in it, causes us to act. When we demonstrate strong feelings combined with optimism it also incites other's to act, it motivates them.
- Showing Empathy. Emotional intelligence can understand where someone is coming from. It can show genuine concern for the other person and their perspective. The ability to sense and articulate the feelings of others helps us to establish trust with them. Trust forms the foundation for further guidance as a mentor or leader. Empathy is something that cannot be faked, but instead must come from a true realization and understanding of the feelings of others. True empathy is genuine concern for others and their needs.
- Staying Connected. Harmony within the group leads to trust and team identification. Emotional responses are contagious and a positive leader and team will encourage like mindedness and keep people within the group connected personally to one another.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Guiding Principles part three
Continued....
Be a living sacrifice (Rom. 12:1). A living sacrifice is one who has committed to a life of submission to another. In some sense it's easy to die for a cause, but living for it is much more difficult. This involves some of the other characteristics I've discussed: humility, love, concern for others. Being sacrificial in our pursuit of excellence means being willing to lift others up and not worrying about our own agenda or position. When we sacrifice, we are giving something up. Usually however, there is reciprocity, for God is a loving God as well as a just God.
Service and Commitment to others (Php 2:17). Service toward others includes humility and sacrifice, as has been discussed, but it also carries the idea of unwavering attention, diligence, and commitment to carry through in what is best for others. Service is love in action. Love cannot be true love without a commitment and service. Service and Commitment show that we truly believe instead of just wishing to believe, wanting to believe, or saying we believe; it's where the rubber hits the road.
Servanthood (Mat. 20:26). Servanthood is similar to service, commitment, and sacrifice but also has the idea of position. When we assign ourselves to a position of servant hood we are humbling ourselves in an active way. To serve is to be available and to have the right information. When God called Eve Adam's "help meet" she was the "help" that was "meet" (or just right) for Adam. We don't go to a plumber if we need a brain surgeon. To be a servant is not to be a doormat, but a critical support structure that provides information, action, attitude, and other things as needed to support the organization or person.
Integrity, Conscientiousness, & Trustworthiness. These things are results of a loving heart and a result of having first been loved. We show integrity because there is a truth that must be adhered to, and we believe it. We are conscientiousness because we know that we are also fallible, have needs, and are part of an ecosystem. We are trust worthy because we choose to show true concern for others whom we have covenanted with for particular pursuit. Because we care about the team, we demonstrate our ability to deliver and adhere to our word.
Stewardship (Lk 12:42-28). Stewardship is to be a good manager of the resources that we've been given charge of. A good manager knows that he doesn't own the resources, but that it's his job to do the right thing and the best thing with those resources as he possibly can. We do this out of respect for those that are the true owners. As a believer we have been given an lot in Christ, therefore we give a lot of our selves back to Him. We give, not because we owe Him or need to repay Him, but to show that we love Him and appreciate His gift to us.
Be a living sacrifice (Rom. 12:1). A living sacrifice is one who has committed to a life of submission to another. In some sense it's easy to die for a cause, but living for it is much more difficult. This involves some of the other characteristics I've discussed: humility, love, concern for others. Being sacrificial in our pursuit of excellence means being willing to lift others up and not worrying about our own agenda or position. When we sacrifice, we are giving something up. Usually however, there is reciprocity, for God is a loving God as well as a just God.
Service and Commitment to others (Php 2:17). Service toward others includes humility and sacrifice, as has been discussed, but it also carries the idea of unwavering attention, diligence, and commitment to carry through in what is best for others. Service is love in action. Love cannot be true love without a commitment and service. Service and Commitment show that we truly believe instead of just wishing to believe, wanting to believe, or saying we believe; it's where the rubber hits the road.
Servanthood (Mat. 20:26). Servanthood is similar to service, commitment, and sacrifice but also has the idea of position. When we assign ourselves to a position of servant hood we are humbling ourselves in an active way. To serve is to be available and to have the right information. When God called Eve Adam's "help meet" she was the "help" that was "meet" (or just right) for Adam. We don't go to a plumber if we need a brain surgeon. To be a servant is not to be a doormat, but a critical support structure that provides information, action, attitude, and other things as needed to support the organization or person.
Integrity, Conscientiousness, & Trustworthiness. These things are results of a loving heart and a result of having first been loved. We show integrity because there is a truth that must be adhered to, and we believe it. We are conscientiousness because we know that we are also fallible, have needs, and are part of an ecosystem. We are trust worthy because we choose to show true concern for others whom we have covenanted with for particular pursuit. Because we care about the team, we demonstrate our ability to deliver and adhere to our word.
Stewardship (Lk 12:42-28). Stewardship is to be a good manager of the resources that we've been given charge of. A good manager knows that he doesn't own the resources, but that it's his job to do the right thing and the best thing with those resources as he possibly can. We do this out of respect for those that are the true owners. As a believer we have been given an lot in Christ, therefore we give a lot of our selves back to Him. We give, not because we owe Him or need to repay Him, but to show that we love Him and appreciate His gift to us.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Guiding Principles, part deux
In continuation from yesterday regarding my Guiding Principles.
Humility (Isa. 57:15). A humble and contrite heart is one that makes itself low. It doesn't belive that it's more important or better than anyone else. Humily see's others and their needs, not just first, but instead of. To be humble is to have knowledge and meekness. Meekness can be defined as power restrained. To know the truth and not demand to be heard, to be right, or to win is true humilty, unless those things are truly better for others.
Positive optimistic attitude. Optimism is seeing problems as opportunities, seeing weaknesses as places to grow, seeing failures as training for what comes next. Optimism holds on to what can be; it is hope for a better way. Positive Optimism is tenacious, even unyielding, not willing to let now be the end, and always looking forward. Being optimistic opens doors, sees good, does not give up, trusts and is trustworthy, motivating, empowering, and inspirational.
Empathy, Compassion (Mat. 18:33), Comfort (2Cor. 1:3). The heart of these characteristics is love. They are the ability to identify with and have concern for another person. To have empathy and compassion is to be in the other person's shoes, to have a shared or similar experience, to connect with someone else in a substantive way. It is an mental, emotional, and perhaps spiritual understanding of their situation as seen from their point of view. Comfort is the action step that results from experiencing the other persons pain with them. We comfort them because we know that we have needed comfort as well. As a Christian, we can comfort those around us with the comfort we've received from God.
Self Control (Gal. 5:23). Dee Hock said that, "without managment of self, no one is fit for authority no matter how much they acquire, for the more authority they acquire, the more dangerous they become." (Hesselbein, 2002, pg 67). Jesus said, "those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires." (Gal. 5:23, NKJV). Again Jesus, in Luke 6:42 said to not be a hypocrite; first remove the plank from your own eye, and then you'll be able to see clearly to remove the spec from your brother's eye. Self control is knowing where your weaknesses are and not going there. It is achieved by not feeding your flesh, your sinful human nature, but instead by feeding your spirit so that it will be strong. It is achieved by mixing a strong spirit with a strong dose of reality and true introspection. It is also a gift of the Holy Spirit to give as He chooses; a gift which is usually comes, as with all gifts, through close association with the Giver.
Well, that's all for now. More to come.
Tonight I'm really challenged by the Spirit to seek self-control. This is an area of weakness for me (in multiple areas of life). I know that I cannot be a good or great leader if I don't first have self-control. I will seek out practical methods to further that ability and be a better steward make use of that gift within me. (1Cor 1:3). I will also work hard to ensure that my schedule is more regular and even, that I don't eat when I shouldn't, that I'll exercise every day, and that I will move forward with gusto on doing things with my family (according to a newly balanced schedule). Of course, I'll be continuing to bathe this in payer.
Guiding Principles aMuzing
I've been considering what to write about Guiding Principles for this week's paper. There are several that jump to mind readily and maybe those are sufficient. It would seem that principles that I already operate by might be good candidates, but then again... maybe not.
Some of the Guiding Principles that are important to me are:
Genuine concern for others (Love). Being the primary attribute of God and a direct commandment of God, having a genuine concern or love for others is a prerequisite for many other parts of our relationships. We read in the 5 Dysfunctions book about Trust being critical to the success of a Team. Trust is not built if there is not a genuine concern for, respect for, or care for the other person. We can tell ourselves that "we're all equal" all day long, but until we actually belive that we are, no action of substance will follow. When we choose to have genuine concern for others, we tend to act in their interests.
Love God with your heart, mind, and soul; and others as yourself. (Dt. 6:4, Lk 10:27). Of course the greatest commandment, as the summation of all the law and the profits (according to Jesus) is to Love God with all that we are. If we choose to put God's purposes ahead of our own goals, vain ambition, pride, dreams, and others, we will find ourselves naturally taking care of those around us and under us (peers and subordinates). As OMAL discusses in relation to Chaordic Leadership, we need to "manage up," that is, understand the expectations and needs of those above us in the hierarchacal ladder and work to meet those expectations. Well, certainly God is the highest on the ladder as it were, so if I live to please Him by faith (Heb. 11:6) then I know that He will work in me (Phil. 1:6) to meet the expectations of others and will take care of my personal needs. He also tells us to love others as ourselves. We have a pretty easy time loving ourselves it seems, however turning our love toward others, who may not even be lovable, is a real mark of knowing the kind of love God has and loves us with. In other words, genuine lovers of God, will be lovers of people over self.
Do everything as unto the Lord (Ga. 3:23). This is a very important work ethic for me. If I do everything like I was doing it for Jesus I can guarantee that my behavior and thoughts would change. This continual change that I go through this as one committed to Him and to His work ideas, is something that defines me. It elicits ideas of quality, perfection, maturity, completeness, committedness, right motivations, integrity, how hard I work, and so much more. If I do everything as unto the Lord I won't get caught in failures that I know are not pleasing to God, and it's likely I will embrace and practice Biblical perspectives and leading of the Holy Spirit more readily. This also becomes an act of worship - I can worship Jesus anywhere with all that I have to do.
In everything give thanks (Phl. 4:6)
Humility (Isa. 57:15)
Positive optimistic attitude
Empathy, Compassion (Mat. 18:33), Comfort (2Cor. 1:3)
Self Control (Gal. 5:23)
Be a living sacrifice (Rom. 12:1)
Service and Commitment to others (Php 2:17), Servanthood (Mat. 20:26)
Integrity, Conscientiousness, & Trustworthiness
Stewardship (Lk 12:42-28)
Well, that's a good start on this. I have more that is written elsewhere on this but will continue a later time. Also, I want to talk next about the readings I've done in the OMAL (On Missiona nd Leadership), The Path, and the 5 Dysfunctions of a Team Workbook.
Some of the Guiding Principles that are important to me are:
Genuine concern for others (Love). Being the primary attribute of God and a direct commandment of God, having a genuine concern or love for others is a prerequisite for many other parts of our relationships. We read in the 5 Dysfunctions book about Trust being critical to the success of a Team. Trust is not built if there is not a genuine concern for, respect for, or care for the other person. We can tell ourselves that "we're all equal" all day long, but until we actually belive that we are, no action of substance will follow. When we choose to have genuine concern for others, we tend to act in their interests.
Love God with your heart, mind, and soul; and others as yourself. (Dt. 6:4, Lk 10:27). Of course the greatest commandment, as the summation of all the law and the profits (according to Jesus) is to Love God with all that we are. If we choose to put God's purposes ahead of our own goals, vain ambition, pride, dreams, and others, we will find ourselves naturally taking care of those around us and under us (peers and subordinates). As OMAL discusses in relation to Chaordic Leadership, we need to "manage up," that is, understand the expectations and needs of those above us in the hierarchacal ladder and work to meet those expectations. Well, certainly God is the highest on the ladder as it were, so if I live to please Him by faith (Heb. 11:6) then I know that He will work in me (Phil. 1:6) to meet the expectations of others and will take care of my personal needs. He also tells us to love others as ourselves. We have a pretty easy time loving ourselves it seems, however turning our love toward others, who may not even be lovable, is a real mark of knowing the kind of love God has and loves us with. In other words, genuine lovers of God, will be lovers of people over self.
Do everything as unto the Lord (Ga. 3:23). This is a very important work ethic for me. If I do everything like I was doing it for Jesus I can guarantee that my behavior and thoughts would change. This continual change that I go through this as one committed to Him and to His work ideas, is something that defines me. It elicits ideas of quality, perfection, maturity, completeness, committedness, right motivations, integrity, how hard I work, and so much more. If I do everything as unto the Lord I won't get caught in failures that I know are not pleasing to God, and it's likely I will embrace and practice Biblical perspectives and leading of the Holy Spirit more readily. This also becomes an act of worship - I can worship Jesus anywhere with all that I have to do.
In everything give thanks (Phl. 4:6)
Humility (Isa. 57:15)
Positive optimistic attitude
Empathy, Compassion (Mat. 18:33), Comfort (2Cor. 1:3)
Self Control (Gal. 5:23)
Be a living sacrifice (Rom. 12:1)
Service and Commitment to others (Php 2:17), Servanthood (Mat. 20:26)
Integrity, Conscientiousness, & Trustworthiness
Stewardship (Lk 12:42-28)
For a bishop must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict. (Titus 1:7-9)
Well, that's a good start on this. I have more that is written elsewhere on this but will continue a later time. Also, I want to talk next about the readings I've done in the OMAL (On Missiona nd Leadership), The Path, and the 5 Dysfunctions of a Team Workbook.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Clifton Strengths Finder Results
Just a quick note, here is what the Clifton Strength's Finder said about me after taking their survey. I'll talk more about it later.
Overview:
Belief
Relator
Connectedness
Strategic
Learner
Strengths:
Belief
If you possess a strong Belief theme, you have certain core values that are enduring. These values vary from one person to another, but ordinarily your Belief theme causes you to be family-oriented, altruistic, even spiritual, and to value responsibility and high ethics—both in yourself and others. These core values affect your behavior in many ways. They give your life meaning and satisfaction; in your view, success is more than money and prestige. They provide you with direction, guiding you through the temptations and distractions of life toward a consistent set of priorities. This consistency is the foundation for all your relationships. Your friends call you dependable. “I know where you stand,” they say. Your Belief makes you easy to trust. It also demands that you find work that meshes with your values. Your work must be meaningful; it must matter to you. And guided by your Belief theme it will matter only if it gives you a chance to live out your values.
Relator
Relator describes your attitude toward your relationships. In simple terms, the Relator theme pulls you toward people you already know. You do not necessarily shy away from meeting new people—in fact, you may have other themes that cause you to enjoy the thrill of turning strangers into friends—but you do derive a great deal of pleasure and strength from being around your close friends. You are comfortable with intimacy. Once the initial connection has been made, you deliberately encourage a deepening of the relationship. You want to understand their feelings, their goals, their fears, and their dreams; and you want them to understand yours. You know that this kind of closeness implies a certain amount of risk—you might be taken advantage of—but you are willing to accept that risk. For you a relationship has value only if it is genuine. And the only way to know that is to entrust yourself to the other person. The more you share with each other, the more you risk together. The more you risk together, the more each of you proves your caring is genuine. These are your steps toward real friendship, and you take them willingly.
Connectedness
Things happen for a reason. You are sure of it. You are sure of it because in your soul you know that we are all connected. Yes, we are individuals, responsible for our own judgments and in possession of our own free will, but nonetheless we are part of something larger. Some may call it the collective unconscious. Others may label it spirit or life force. But whatever your word of choice, you gain confidence from knowing that we are not isolated from one another or from the earth and the life on it. This feeling of Connectedness implies certain responsibilities. If we are all part of a larger picture, then we must not harm others because we will be harming ourselves. We must not exploit because we will be exploiting ourselves. Your awareness of these responsibilities creates your value system. You are considerate, caring, and accepting. Certain of the unity of humankind, you are a bridge builder for people of different cultures. Sensitive to the invisible hand, you can give others comfort that there is a purpose beyond our humdrum lives. The exact articles of your faith will depend on your upbringing and your culture, but your faith is strong. It sustains you and your close friends in the face of life’s mysteries.
Strategic
The Strategic theme enables you to sort through the clutter and find the best route. It is not a skill that can be taught. It is a distinct way of thinking, a special perspective on the world at large. This perspective allows you to see patterns where others simply see complexity. Mindful of these patterns, you play out alternative scenarios, always asking, “What if this happened? Okay, well what if this happened?” This recurring question helps you see around the next corner. There you can evaluate accurately the potential obstacles. Guided by where you see each path leading, you start to make selections. You discard the paths that lead nowhere. You discard the paths that lead straight into resistance. You discard the paths that lead into a fog of confusion. You cull and make selections until you arrive at the chosen path—your strategy. Armed with your strategy, you strike forward. This is your Strategic theme at work: “What if?” Select. Strike.
Learner
You love to learn. The subject matter that interests you most will be determined by your other themes and experiences, but whatever the subject, you will always be drawn to the process of learning. The process, more than the content or the result, is especially exciting for you. You are energized by the steady and deliberate journey from ignorance to competence. The thrill of the first few facts, the early efforts to recite or practice what you have learned, the growing
confidence of a skill mastered—this is the process that entices you. Your excitement leads you to engage in adult learning experiences—yoga or piano lessons or graduate classes. It enables you to thrive in dynamic work environments where you are asked to take on short project assignments and are expected to learn a lot about the new subject matter in a short period of time and then move on to the next one. This Learner theme does not necessarily mean that you seek to become the subject matter expert, or that you are striving for the respect that accompanies a professional or academic credential. The outcome of the learning is less significant than the “getting there.”
( I cut and paste the Clifton results into this blog so the results descriptions are their copyright.)
Overview:
Belief
Relator
Connectedness
Strategic
Learner
Strengths:
Belief
If you possess a strong Belief theme, you have certain core values that are enduring. These values vary from one person to another, but ordinarily your Belief theme causes you to be family-oriented, altruistic, even spiritual, and to value responsibility and high ethics—both in yourself and others. These core values affect your behavior in many ways. They give your life meaning and satisfaction; in your view, success is more than money and prestige. They provide you with direction, guiding you through the temptations and distractions of life toward a consistent set of priorities. This consistency is the foundation for all your relationships. Your friends call you dependable. “I know where you stand,” they say. Your Belief makes you easy to trust. It also demands that you find work that meshes with your values. Your work must be meaningful; it must matter to you. And guided by your Belief theme it will matter only if it gives you a chance to live out your values.
Relator
Relator describes your attitude toward your relationships. In simple terms, the Relator theme pulls you toward people you already know. You do not necessarily shy away from meeting new people—in fact, you may have other themes that cause you to enjoy the thrill of turning strangers into friends—but you do derive a great deal of pleasure and strength from being around your close friends. You are comfortable with intimacy. Once the initial connection has been made, you deliberately encourage a deepening of the relationship. You want to understand their feelings, their goals, their fears, and their dreams; and you want them to understand yours. You know that this kind of closeness implies a certain amount of risk—you might be taken advantage of—but you are willing to accept that risk. For you a relationship has value only if it is genuine. And the only way to know that is to entrust yourself to the other person. The more you share with each other, the more you risk together. The more you risk together, the more each of you proves your caring is genuine. These are your steps toward real friendship, and you take them willingly.
Connectedness
Things happen for a reason. You are sure of it. You are sure of it because in your soul you know that we are all connected. Yes, we are individuals, responsible for our own judgments and in possession of our own free will, but nonetheless we are part of something larger. Some may call it the collective unconscious. Others may label it spirit or life force. But whatever your word of choice, you gain confidence from knowing that we are not isolated from one another or from the earth and the life on it. This feeling of Connectedness implies certain responsibilities. If we are all part of a larger picture, then we must not harm others because we will be harming ourselves. We must not exploit because we will be exploiting ourselves. Your awareness of these responsibilities creates your value system. You are considerate, caring, and accepting. Certain of the unity of humankind, you are a bridge builder for people of different cultures. Sensitive to the invisible hand, you can give others comfort that there is a purpose beyond our humdrum lives. The exact articles of your faith will depend on your upbringing and your culture, but your faith is strong. It sustains you and your close friends in the face of life’s mysteries.
Strategic
The Strategic theme enables you to sort through the clutter and find the best route. It is not a skill that can be taught. It is a distinct way of thinking, a special perspective on the world at large. This perspective allows you to see patterns where others simply see complexity. Mindful of these patterns, you play out alternative scenarios, always asking, “What if this happened? Okay, well what if this happened?” This recurring question helps you see around the next corner. There you can evaluate accurately the potential obstacles. Guided by where you see each path leading, you start to make selections. You discard the paths that lead nowhere. You discard the paths that lead straight into resistance. You discard the paths that lead into a fog of confusion. You cull and make selections until you arrive at the chosen path—your strategy. Armed with your strategy, you strike forward. This is your Strategic theme at work: “What if?” Select. Strike.
Learner
You love to learn. The subject matter that interests you most will be determined by your other themes and experiences, but whatever the subject, you will always be drawn to the process of learning. The process, more than the content or the result, is especially exciting for you. You are energized by the steady and deliberate journey from ignorance to competence. The thrill of the first few facts, the early efforts to recite or practice what you have learned, the growing
confidence of a skill mastered—this is the process that entices you. Your excitement leads you to engage in adult learning experiences—yoga or piano lessons or graduate classes. It enables you to thrive in dynamic work environments where you are asked to take on short project assignments and are expected to learn a lot about the new subject matter in a short period of time and then move on to the next one. This Learner theme does not necessarily mean that you seek to become the subject matter expert, or that you are striving for the respect that accompanies a professional or academic credential. The outcome of the learning is less significant than the “getting there.”
( I cut and paste the Clifton results into this blog so the results descriptions are their copyright.)
Saturday, September 13, 2008
P..R..O..C..E..S..S..I..N..G......
Call
Processing...
Processing my Mission and Vision statements has been something that has been somewhat brutal, somewhat exciting, and definitely fun and worthwhile. Yet, there are a lot of factors that I am still considering. I notice that my Mission statement is completely focused around teaching and serving the Body of Christ, and certainly, that's where my true heart lies. However, some experience in my life in the last two or three years have shown me that the Lord wants me to be ready to whatever He calls me to do, in the secular or Christian world.
To that end, I think my Mission statement needs to be adjusted somewhat in terms of audience or focus, however that is a work in progress. The Vision statement is more aligned to a "flexible" perspective, but still focused on Leadership. I expect understanding of my Mission and Vision to grow as I grow in understanding of Leadership concepts, as the Lord refines His purpose for me, and as I mature in all other areas of life. Also, I want my mission statement to reflect more of the importance of my family and my hopes and plans for them as well.
More to come on that...
High level goals (30 yr plan):
1. Basic Training and Pursuit (5 yr plan) - Complete BS and MS degrees, and gain two professional certifications. Gain employment in a Project Management focused role. Utilize past experience in professional and Christian pursuits to retain and grow applicable skill sets.
2. Extended Training and Pursuit (10 yr plan) - Complete Leadership centered PhD. Establish connections in the secular and Christian communities that facilitate further Leadership opportunities. Create/facilitate significant leadership opportunities and networking in the local community. Develop resources for Leadership. Seek public speaking opportunities.
3. Value and Refinement (15 yr plan) - This is the time of life I expect to refine a much more precise role. My education and exposure at previous levels will have helped prepare me for a more specific target. I expect to be involved in Local and National leadership development, significant facilitation of the leadership body of knowledge, especially within the Body of Christ. I expect to be teaching regularly. Begin writing and seeking to establish publisher relationships for book, article, multimedia, and online publications. Continued public speaking.
4. Mentoring (20 yr plan) - Local, National, and Global. Having worked to establish leadership avenues, opportunities, and the empowerment of other leaders, focus on being a mentor and resource for others to rely upon. Focused on writing, coaching, and investing in individuals and organizations within the Kingdom of God and secular outlets as the Lord leads. Travel becomes a more regular part of delivery. Continued public speaking.
5. Community (25 yr plan) - Local, National, and Global. Based on experience with multiple levels of corporate, non-profit, and Christian leadership, continue to work with community based initiatives, leadership development initiatives, and political and other business leadership reform. Continued and expanded writing and speaking.
6. Transition and Rescope (30 yr plan) - Local pro-bono efforts, focus on family, personal growth, and pursuit of other topics that have arisen over the years. Travel. Continued focus on writing.
Obviously these goals, my mission and vision, and the leadership of the Holy Spirit will become more refined and visible overtime. These statements simply represent a starting point. I feel confident that I'm moving forward in life committed to the Lord, His calling, and the desires He has placed in my heart.
Psalm 37 has so much to say to me and fits with much that is in my heart right now.
[God] ... has in due time manifested His word through preaching, which was committed to me according to the commandment of God our Savior; (Titus 1:3, NKJV)
Processing...
Processing my Mission and Vision statements has been something that has been somewhat brutal, somewhat exciting, and definitely fun and worthwhile. Yet, there are a lot of factors that I am still considering. I notice that my Mission statement is completely focused around teaching and serving the Body of Christ, and certainly, that's where my true heart lies. However, some experience in my life in the last two or three years have shown me that the Lord wants me to be ready to whatever He calls me to do, in the secular or Christian world.
To that end, I think my Mission statement needs to be adjusted somewhat in terms of audience or focus, however that is a work in progress. The Vision statement is more aligned to a "flexible" perspective, but still focused on Leadership. I expect understanding of my Mission and Vision to grow as I grow in understanding of Leadership concepts, as the Lord refines His purpose for me, and as I mature in all other areas of life. Also, I want my mission statement to reflect more of the importance of my family and my hopes and plans for them as well.
More to come on that...
High level goals (30 yr plan):
1. Basic Training and Pursuit (5 yr plan) - Complete BS and MS degrees, and gain two professional certifications. Gain employment in a Project Management focused role. Utilize past experience in professional and Christian pursuits to retain and grow applicable skill sets.
2. Extended Training and Pursuit (10 yr plan) - Complete Leadership centered PhD. Establish connections in the secular and Christian communities that facilitate further Leadership opportunities. Create/facilitate significant leadership opportunities and networking in the local community. Develop resources for Leadership. Seek public speaking opportunities.
3. Value and Refinement (15 yr plan) - This is the time of life I expect to refine a much more precise role. My education and exposure at previous levels will have helped prepare me for a more specific target. I expect to be involved in Local and National leadership development, significant facilitation of the leadership body of knowledge, especially within the Body of Christ. I expect to be teaching regularly. Begin writing and seeking to establish publisher relationships for book, article, multimedia, and online publications. Continued public speaking.
4. Mentoring (20 yr plan) - Local, National, and Global. Having worked to establish leadership avenues, opportunities, and the empowerment of other leaders, focus on being a mentor and resource for others to rely upon. Focused on writing, coaching, and investing in individuals and organizations within the Kingdom of God and secular outlets as the Lord leads. Travel becomes a more regular part of delivery. Continued public speaking.
5. Community (25 yr plan) - Local, National, and Global. Based on experience with multiple levels of corporate, non-profit, and Christian leadership, continue to work with community based initiatives, leadership development initiatives, and political and other business leadership reform. Continued and expanded writing and speaking.
6. Transition and Rescope (30 yr plan) - Local pro-bono efforts, focus on family, personal growth, and pursuit of other topics that have arisen over the years. Travel. Continued focus on writing.
Obviously these goals, my mission and vision, and the leadership of the Holy Spirit will become more refined and visible overtime. These statements simply represent a starting point. I feel confident that I'm moving forward in life committed to the Lord, His calling, and the desires He has placed in my heart.
Psalm 37 has so much to say to me and fits with much that is in my heart right now.
Trust in the Lord, and do good; Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness. Delight yourself also in the Lord, And He shall give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, And He shall bring it to pass. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, And your justice as the noonday. Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who brings wicked schemes to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; Do not fret--it only causes harm. For evildoers shall be cut off; But those who wait on the Lord, They shall inherit the earth. For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more; Indeed, you will look carefully for his place, But it shall be no more. But the meek shall inherit the earth, And shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. (Psalm 37:3-11, NKJV)
September 10th - Mission and Vision
Mission
My mission is to connect, inspire, and serve members and leaders within the Body of Christ for the glory of God, and leaders around the world for the betterment of mankind.
Vision
On a daily basis I am in tune with the leading and direction of the Holy Spirit so that I might be continually available to walk in the will of God.
In connecting, I find personal peace, joy, and satisfaction in a daily connection through in depth study, prayer, and worship of Jesus Christ. I frequently disciple members of the Body of Christ that need personalized spiritual and leadership assistance. I facilitate groups who are studying the Word of God, Biblical principles, and Leadership principles. I am involved in innovating new connection opportunities between like-minded individuals. I facilitate personal and organizational growth for those who wish to apply Biblical principles. I am committed to personal excellence and to do all things as unto God (Col. 3:23)
In Inspiration, I find myself inspired, motivated, encouraged, and energized by God’s love and daily commitment to me. I pass that inspiration on to those around me and encourage them in their faith, Biblical, and personal knowledge. I shepherd Christians in their walk with God and apply principles of shepherding to secular groups in order to build them up as people and make them more effective. I transfer my personal passion for Leadership to those who know the value of Leadership, those who are seeking an outside perspective, or those who want to grow in their knowledge of Leadership and leadership principles.
In service, I am continuously preparing myself to be flexible, ready, and able to serve anyone that God directs me to. I weekly or daily teach Christian lay members, church leaders, or ministry participants the word of God in public and private settings. God gave me Titus 1:3 as my specific call to preach the Word of God regularly and am committed to personal and communal worship of and prayer to God. I encourage those around me and mentor and guide those that come to me with more personalized needs. I help those that come to me by empathizing, discipling, and being available to meet their physical, social, and spiritual needs as led by the Holy Spirit. I provide resources, partnerships, leadership training, and mentoring to those who want to know more about utilizing Biblical principles in their leadership.
My mission is to connect, inspire, and serve members and leaders within the Body of Christ for the glory of God, and leaders around the world for the betterment of mankind.
Vision
On a daily basis I am in tune with the leading and direction of the Holy Spirit so that I might be continually available to walk in the will of God.
In connecting, I find personal peace, joy, and satisfaction in a daily connection through in depth study, prayer, and worship of Jesus Christ. I frequently disciple members of the Body of Christ that need personalized spiritual and leadership assistance. I facilitate groups who are studying the Word of God, Biblical principles, and Leadership principles. I am involved in innovating new connection opportunities between like-minded individuals. I facilitate personal and organizational growth for those who wish to apply Biblical principles. I am committed to personal excellence and to do all things as unto God (Col. 3:23)
In Inspiration, I find myself inspired, motivated, encouraged, and energized by God’s love and daily commitment to me. I pass that inspiration on to those around me and encourage them in their faith, Biblical, and personal knowledge. I shepherd Christians in their walk with God and apply principles of shepherding to secular groups in order to build them up as people and make them more effective. I transfer my personal passion for Leadership to those who know the value of Leadership, those who are seeking an outside perspective, or those who want to grow in their knowledge of Leadership and leadership principles.
In service, I am continuously preparing myself to be flexible, ready, and able to serve anyone that God directs me to. I weekly or daily teach Christian lay members, church leaders, or ministry participants the word of God in public and private settings. God gave me Titus 1:3 as my specific call to preach the Word of God regularly and am committed to personal and communal worship of and prayer to God. I encourage those around me and mentor and guide those that come to me with more personalized needs. I help those that come to me by empathizing, discipling, and being available to meet their physical, social, and spiritual needs as led by the Holy Spirit. I provide resources, partnerships, leadership training, and mentoring to those who want to know more about utilizing Biblical principles in their leadership.
September 9th - 5 Dysfunctions of a Team: Trust
In my BS program I read the Five Dysfunctions of a Team, so I was looking forward to getting into the followup guide, "Overcoming the FIVE Dysfunctions of a Team: A Field Guide" (Lencioni, 2005). The book starts out with a great one page overview of the 5 dysfunctions.
The first dysfunction is the absence of Trust. It seems to be the most important characteristic a team can have. Trust is the foundation for being able to work together. As Patrick Lencioni says (pg 14), "trust is all about vulnerability." I would agree and as Patrick mentions, people who can admit the truth about themselves are not likely to be counter productive to the team. People have the desire to preserve themselves. However, I believe that this is more than just self-preservation, it comes from selfishness, pride, and fear.
People are selfish by nature and aren't willing to give up what they may have worked hard to achieve or are perceived to be or have. To admit weakness would destroy the facade they've erected, which could impact their job, their future, and the power they have (or are given by others). Also, pride keeps people from being honest and open before others because they don't want to admit their weaknesses and miss the benefits afforded to them by our society which tends to give preference to those that "don't make mistakes," are the "driver," "innovator," and the "strong" or "successful". Fear is another big reason people aren't willing to be honest. People are afraid that if they are perceived as weak, no one will respect them, like them, or give them more opportunities. People are afraid that if they make mistakes, people will look down on them and judge them and the work they do.
The first chapter of this book talks about the use of a couple of tools or methods for helping people break through these mostly self-imposed barriers and start the team on a journey of trust, the Personal Histories Exercise, and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). While I haven't experienced the former, I have done the latter. In my Myers-Briggs evaluation I found confirmation that I am an ENTJ/ENFJ. I'm an extrovert, who takes in information from patterns and the big picture and like to focus on future possibilities. I am about even between objective fact based decisions and decisions based on values and subjective evaluation of personal concerns. I like a planned and organized approach, but occasionally like to be spontaneous.
Because I'm a people focused learner I tend to build trust in other's quickly. I find myself willing to accept them for who they are, but the Intuition part of me is always looking forward to the future and how I can make use of that trust, in a positive way, for future gains. I tend to be quite optimistic and ready for whatever challenge comes along - in fact I often volunteer or put myself in situations where I will be uncomfortable and forced to meet or address weaknesses head on. This also tends to make me pretty hard on myself and sometimes others if expected results are not achieved.
My review of this characteristic of trust and my own personal MBTI values has challenged me to be more aware of helping other's gain trust in me and helping my trust of others be a catalyst for team interaction and shared trust. I know that if we can establish an honest vulnerability based trust in our cohort, we will help each other reach our goals in this MBA program.
I suppose the question remains of how I can help our group achieve that. The Ropes course was a really great start, and maybe getting everyone to go through the MBTI would be a good help as well. I know that primarily I can make sure that I'm honest and vulnerable in my communications, willing to listen and encourage others to talk through their concerns, notice and encourage introverts to share their insights at the appropriate times, and do my best to be a good example of a trustworthy person. If I take the path of support for my peers then possibly I can help interject a question in the right moment to enable their growth, or give encouragement where needed to reinforce that our environment is one of safety and trust. I will seek to do these things as we work together and seek to draw more from the instructor in relation to this area of trust.
The first dysfunction is the absence of Trust. It seems to be the most important characteristic a team can have. Trust is the foundation for being able to work together. As Patrick Lencioni says (pg 14), "trust is all about vulnerability." I would agree and as Patrick mentions, people who can admit the truth about themselves are not likely to be counter productive to the team. People have the desire to preserve themselves. However, I believe that this is more than just self-preservation, it comes from selfishness, pride, and fear.
People are selfish by nature and aren't willing to give up what they may have worked hard to achieve or are perceived to be or have. To admit weakness would destroy the facade they've erected, which could impact their job, their future, and the power they have (or are given by others). Also, pride keeps people from being honest and open before others because they don't want to admit their weaknesses and miss the benefits afforded to them by our society which tends to give preference to those that "don't make mistakes," are the "driver," "innovator," and the "strong" or "successful". Fear is another big reason people aren't willing to be honest. People are afraid that if they are perceived as weak, no one will respect them, like them, or give them more opportunities. People are afraid that if they make mistakes, people will look down on them and judge them and the work they do.
The first chapter of this book talks about the use of a couple of tools or methods for helping people break through these mostly self-imposed barriers and start the team on a journey of trust, the Personal Histories Exercise, and the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI). While I haven't experienced the former, I have done the latter. In my Myers-Briggs evaluation I found confirmation that I am an ENTJ/ENFJ. I'm an extrovert, who takes in information from patterns and the big picture and like to focus on future possibilities. I am about even between objective fact based decisions and decisions based on values and subjective evaluation of personal concerns. I like a planned and organized approach, but occasionally like to be spontaneous.
Because I'm a people focused learner I tend to build trust in other's quickly. I find myself willing to accept them for who they are, but the Intuition part of me is always looking forward to the future and how I can make use of that trust, in a positive way, for future gains. I tend to be quite optimistic and ready for whatever challenge comes along - in fact I often volunteer or put myself in situations where I will be uncomfortable and forced to meet or address weaknesses head on. This also tends to make me pretty hard on myself and sometimes others if expected results are not achieved.
My review of this characteristic of trust and my own personal MBTI values has challenged me to be more aware of helping other's gain trust in me and helping my trust of others be a catalyst for team interaction and shared trust. I know that if we can establish an honest vulnerability based trust in our cohort, we will help each other reach our goals in this MBA program.
I suppose the question remains of how I can help our group achieve that. The Ropes course was a really great start, and maybe getting everyone to go through the MBTI would be a good help as well. I know that primarily I can make sure that I'm honest and vulnerable in my communications, willing to listen and encourage others to talk through their concerns, notice and encourage introverts to share their insights at the appropriate times, and do my best to be a good example of a trustworthy person. If I take the path of support for my peers then possibly I can help interject a question in the right moment to enable their growth, or give encouragement where needed to reinforce that our environment is one of safety and trust. I will seek to do these things as we work together and seek to draw more from the instructor in relation to this area of trust.
September 8th - blah blah blah
Tonight we gave a short presentation on the things that have impacted our lives and made us who we are. I struggled a lot with this presentation, and I'm not really sure why. I spent about 20 hours going through my past, drawing out graphs of high and low points, and trying to come up with an effective analogy or story that I could use to connect to my audience with. I also know, from past experience that practicing and working through your presentation several times before you give the final version is really important. That is something I just ran out of time for on this assignment. Because I struggled and spent so much time on the formation of the information, I didn't really have time to get my talk condensed down to a few simple topics, and I didn't have time to get it done ahead of time so I could practice. The Ropes course really took a bunch of time away this week, but highlights that I need to get get more done, earlier. I do start on Thursday's after class however, I need to get more accomplished.
I think part of my struggle comes from trying to overall analyze the task. The purpose of the presentation was to give us an opportunity to conceptualize and then communicate important topics. However, for me, this required a lot of thinking and remembering from the past; and probably most of all, it required me to take my verbose approach to everything and get it down to a short, concise, and simple presentation.
Another part of my struggle comes from a desire to really do a complete analysis on whatever I've been assigned. I want so much to do a good, complete, and impactful job that I get lost in the details. I need to take a step back from the assignment and attempt to understand the purpose, the audience, and ascertain the level of work that is needed. I know this struggle comes from a work and teaching history that is very detail oriented and work environments where this is reinforced through various means. I know to grow however, I need to be able to take complex data and see the big picture quickly and accurately, and then have an ability to provide a distilled and clearly focused presentation of that information.
My presentation of self was really below my typical standards. I was nervous (I'm not sure why but my hopes of doing well, knowing what I'm capable of, and being unprepared probably where the big reasons), my presentation had no clear focus, my opening story was disjointed and not clear, and my discussion points were rambling and not connected, and I didn't have good visuals. I didn't choose a Chronological order method (though I should have probably), which enhanced the difficulty as well. I hope I didn't get a really poor grade, however if I were the professor, I would have given myself an average grade, no more. It was categorically, unexciting and blah (..., blah, blah). I felt quite defeated over the whole thing to be honest, but I will do INCREDIBLY better next time. I will not let a failed 5 minute presentation keep me down.
I think part of my struggle comes from trying to overall analyze the task. The purpose of the presentation was to give us an opportunity to conceptualize and then communicate important topics. However, for me, this required a lot of thinking and remembering from the past; and probably most of all, it required me to take my verbose approach to everything and get it down to a short, concise, and simple presentation.
Another part of my struggle comes from a desire to really do a complete analysis on whatever I've been assigned. I want so much to do a good, complete, and impactful job that I get lost in the details. I need to take a step back from the assignment and attempt to understand the purpose, the audience, and ascertain the level of work that is needed. I know this struggle comes from a work and teaching history that is very detail oriented and work environments where this is reinforced through various means. I know to grow however, I need to be able to take complex data and see the big picture quickly and accurately, and then have an ability to provide a distilled and clearly focused presentation of that information.
My presentation of self was really below my typical standards. I was nervous (I'm not sure why but my hopes of doing well, knowing what I'm capable of, and being unprepared probably where the big reasons), my presentation had no clear focus, my opening story was disjointed and not clear, and my discussion points were rambling and not connected, and I didn't have good visuals. I didn't choose a Chronological order method (though I should have probably), which enhanced the difficulty as well. I hope I didn't get a really poor grade, however if I were the professor, I would have given myself an average grade, no more. It was categorically, unexciting and blah (..., blah, blah). I felt quite defeated over the whole thing to be honest, but I will do INCREDIBLY better next time. I will not let a failed 5 minute presentation keep me down.
September 7th - Sore Ribs
Another lesson from our ropes course has become clear - sometimes working on a team, being vulnerable, and working hard, results in personal conequences. Pulling people up over an obstacle resulted in me having some fairly bruised ribs. Though painful now, it is a good feeling, knowing that I gave of myself in a manner befitting my comrades. They were worth the service, and I am reminded of that quite often as I bend and move during the day and night.
Also, because I was impacted personally by my efforts, I'm reminded that other's were impacted in their service for me. For that, I am grateful and encouraged, for it shows much about their character and willingness to put aside themselves for the benefit of the team and for me personally. I'm also made aware that we all have contributions to make and sometimes those contributions may have a significant cost, but that's part of being on a team, in a family, part of being something greater than just yourself.
A friend of mine has MS and pretty severe arthritis. Sometimes my hands have pain as the weather changes due to a touch of my own arthritis, yet I am reminded by the Spirit that my pain is nothing compared to hers, my pain is temporary while hers severly impacts her every day life. Having a little pain is a good thing when it causes us to focus on others, realize the many things that we blessed by in other ways, and realizing that life isn't just about being comfortable, that there are deeper and more significant aspects, and most of all that it's not all about myself.
Also, because I was impacted personally by my efforts, I'm reminded that other's were impacted in their service for me. For that, I am grateful and encouraged, for it shows much about their character and willingness to put aside themselves for the benefit of the team and for me personally. I'm also made aware that we all have contributions to make and sometimes those contributions may have a significant cost, but that's part of being on a team, in a family, part of being something greater than just yourself.
A friend of mine has MS and pretty severe arthritis. Sometimes my hands have pain as the weather changes due to a touch of my own arthritis, yet I am reminded by the Spirit that my pain is nothing compared to hers, my pain is temporary while hers severly impacts her every day life. Having a little pain is a good thing when it causes us to focus on others, realize the many things that we blessed by in other ways, and realizing that life isn't just about being comfortable, that there are deeper and more significant aspects, and most of all that it's not all about myself.
September 6th - The Ropes Course
The day before yesterday (Saturday, September 6th) our cohort went to the Quaker Hill Ropes Course in McCall Idaho. Three professors were with us as well, making a total of eight people, five men and three women. The setting was in the pine forests of Idaho and the day was beautiful. There sun was warm, the air cool and clear, there were relaxing sounds of birds calling, squirrels chattering, and all around was a wonderful aroma of the great out doors.
The ropes course was designed to put us in a place where we were out of context and would be forced to rely on each other and go a bit beyond ourselves. The activity was also designed to bring our newly formed group together at the beginning of our MBA program in an effort to draw us together and help us get to know each other a little better.
Without giving away the details of the course for any future participants, it was a great experience. We were put in situations to have to trust one another, making our way through and over obstacles, and across stretches steel cables at varying heights above the ground. There were several main takeaways from this trip for me.
The experience allowed us to see each other as people instead of just classmates. Barriers between student and instructor were broken down as each had to rely on one another. We were able to see each other's strengths and weaknesses, fears, and true personalities. We were forced to deal respectfully with a much reduced personal space as we pushed, pulled, and held on to each other to complete the elements of the course. Seeing and interacting with one another as human beings instead of students and instructors, allowed us to build a foundation of trust and concern for each other.
The experience allowed me to go beyond my own capabilities by forcing me to deal with my fears head on and in front of others. I've always been a little fearful of heights, ever since I was a kid. I've done quite a bit of hunting with my Dad and overcome a lot of that, however in these exercises I had to just suck it up and get it done, even though it was scary. Dealing with fear in front of other also forces you let go of pride, take off masks, and become transparent (in some cases, whether you like it or not - knocking knees at 50 ft above the ground are hard to hide).
The experience allowed me to put myself in the hands of others. There was one obstacle upon which I was worried more about my team than myself. Because of my size I was concerned about the extra effort they were going to have to exert, on my account. This was humbling, but also very encouraging as I saw them take on the challenge without even a hesitation. Quicker than a flash, I was up and over. Wow, what a great team! It also forced other people to do the same thing and rely on myself and the rest of the team. I felt honored to be able to serve those in my group in this way. I also felt supported by my team and encouraged when it was difficult. In one particular situation, when I was climbing a tall tree, I was immediately encouraged by clapping, cheering, and encouragement by those on the ground - and I wasn't even on the hard part yet! I remember thinking how surprised I was at the feeling of encouragement that came over me when the team was cheering me on. The encouragement was simple: "you can do it!" and "great job!", very simple - yet very powerful.
Another aspect of the experience that I enjoyed was getting to know my team members a little better. I had great conversation on the way there, during the various challenges, and coming home. My respect for my teammates had changed from an unknowing sort of mysterious respect, to a respect that comes from knowledge of their hearts to serve and help, out of their willingness to put aside their own pride and be vulnerable and trusting, and out of the things we learned about each other's goals, jobs, hopes, and desires. I enjoy getting to know people and I know this activity helped me connect with my team on a real and personal level.
Lastly, I was very impressed by the willingness of my instructors to jump right in and take on this challenge with the rest of us. I was curious to see how their true personalities would come out. Would they sit back and watch or would they jump in and be part of the team; would they allow themselves to be vulnerable and their humanity to be open to inspection; would they take a true leadership role in encouragement, concern for others, and desire to see their students succeed? I was wanting to see their victory, not only for their success, but (maybe selfishly) because my success would hinge so intricately upon their character and leadership. As I put myself in their worthy hands to help mold and mentor me through this program, I wanted to know if I was in good hands. Fortunately, and blessedly, I found my instructors to have depth of character, demonstrate leadership in the face of their own fears, and prove themselves capable of maintaining an other's centered focus. It was clear that their goals were to see us succeed, and perhaps that was the most important thing I learned. To know that I have partners in this program and in my own personal success is very encouraging and gives me confidence that it will be a valuable stepping stone in my life's work. For that, I am grateful.
The ropes course was designed to put us in a place where we were out of context and would be forced to rely on each other and go a bit beyond ourselves. The activity was also designed to bring our newly formed group together at the beginning of our MBA program in an effort to draw us together and help us get to know each other a little better.
Without giving away the details of the course for any future participants, it was a great experience. We were put in situations to have to trust one another, making our way through and over obstacles, and across stretches steel cables at varying heights above the ground. There were several main takeaways from this trip for me.
The experience allowed us to see each other as people instead of just classmates. Barriers between student and instructor were broken down as each had to rely on one another. We were able to see each other's strengths and weaknesses, fears, and true personalities. We were forced to deal respectfully with a much reduced personal space as we pushed, pulled, and held on to each other to complete the elements of the course. Seeing and interacting with one another as human beings instead of students and instructors, allowed us to build a foundation of trust and concern for each other.
The experience allowed me to go beyond my own capabilities by forcing me to deal with my fears head on and in front of others. I've always been a little fearful of heights, ever since I was a kid. I've done quite a bit of hunting with my Dad and overcome a lot of that, however in these exercises I had to just suck it up and get it done, even though it was scary. Dealing with fear in front of other also forces you let go of pride, take off masks, and become transparent (in some cases, whether you like it or not - knocking knees at 50 ft above the ground are hard to hide).
The experience allowed me to put myself in the hands of others. There was one obstacle upon which I was worried more about my team than myself. Because of my size I was concerned about the extra effort they were going to have to exert, on my account. This was humbling, but also very encouraging as I saw them take on the challenge without even a hesitation. Quicker than a flash, I was up and over. Wow, what a great team! It also forced other people to do the same thing and rely on myself and the rest of the team. I felt honored to be able to serve those in my group in this way. I also felt supported by my team and encouraged when it was difficult. In one particular situation, when I was climbing a tall tree, I was immediately encouraged by clapping, cheering, and encouragement by those on the ground - and I wasn't even on the hard part yet! I remember thinking how surprised I was at the feeling of encouragement that came over me when the team was cheering me on. The encouragement was simple: "you can do it!" and "great job!", very simple - yet very powerful.
Another aspect of the experience that I enjoyed was getting to know my team members a little better. I had great conversation on the way there, during the various challenges, and coming home. My respect for my teammates had changed from an unknowing sort of mysterious respect, to a respect that comes from knowledge of their hearts to serve and help, out of their willingness to put aside their own pride and be vulnerable and trusting, and out of the things we learned about each other's goals, jobs, hopes, and desires. I enjoy getting to know people and I know this activity helped me connect with my team on a real and personal level.
Lastly, I was very impressed by the willingness of my instructors to jump right in and take on this challenge with the rest of us. I was curious to see how their true personalities would come out. Would they sit back and watch or would they jump in and be part of the team; would they allow themselves to be vulnerable and their humanity to be open to inspection; would they take a true leadership role in encouragement, concern for others, and desire to see their students succeed? I was wanting to see their victory, not only for their success, but (maybe selfishly) because my success would hinge so intricately upon their character and leadership. As I put myself in their worthy hands to help mold and mentor me through this program, I wanted to know if I was in good hands. Fortunately, and blessedly, I found my instructors to have depth of character, demonstrate leadership in the face of their own fears, and prove themselves capable of maintaining an other's centered focus. It was clear that their goals were to see us succeed, and perhaps that was the most important thing I learned. To know that I have partners in this program and in my own personal success is very encouraging and gives me confidence that it will be a valuable stepping stone in my life's work. For that, I am grateful.
Friday, September 5, 2008
With knowledge comes responsibility
Today I've been thinking about a portion of my last paper that summarized some reflections as I read "The Path" (Jones, 1996). In my paper I said something akin to the following:
For years I taught Jr. High and Sr. High Youth Groups and one analogy that always seemed useful was that of the giving away of my car. I would hold out my keys and say, "here are my keys, you can have my car." Of course, there was something that had to happen before they could realize the benefit of actually going somewhere in my car. What is it? They have to reach out and take the keys, start the car, and start driving.
Now to make the analogy a little more theologically correct, it is Jesus who gives us the car and the keys, it is Jesus who gives us the strength to reach out and take the keys, it is Jesus who gives us knowledge about how the car works, it is Jesus who drives through us as He directs us by His Spirit. But still, there is this mysterious component of our will involved. It's not that we're somehow earning the car or deserving the car by reaching out and taking the keys, just like we can not, through any action, earn or deserve eternal life with Jesus. What does He do? He first asks us to believe, and then because we believe, we act. Because a student believed that I was actually giving him my car, he took my keys and drove away. (OK, not really, but I was always a little nervous every time I shared the story!)
So then, with regard to our mission, vision, and values, we too must first believe, then choose to act . It will be Christ doing the work through us, yet because He has allowed us to see that hinder hinting of His glory, like Moses, we move forward with our mission toward our vision and we do it with purpose, with resolve, with focus, and with faith. If we are following His call, His plan for our lives, then our living Mission will cause us to take the keys and drive places we didn't even realize were there!
Are we willing? Are we going to get outside of our comfort zone? Are we going to believe that there really is a gift of God's plan for our life? If we do, are we reaching for the keys? Have we taken the leap of faith to believe enough to take the keys? Do we have the peace of God ruling in our hearts that enables us to open the door? Are we willing to trust Him to turn the key? Once we get started, are we willing to let Him navigate? Fortunately, our Mission statement is like one of those motel maps that have some of the potential highlights in the general direction we're going. His Word is a complete set of driving instructions, His Spirit is there to speak to us about the path to take. Do we want to see the sights that God has planned for us, or will we be content with either sitting there, or simply driving in familiar circles?
I'm encouraged and excited that as I continue to refine my mission and vision statements, with direction from the Spirit, I will be able to go places that He intends. The best part is, I have good company in the car with me - the Godhead, my family, my friends, my mentors, and those saints and martyrs that have stood as witnesses and shown as beacons of Christ's light for all to see. I'm stirred to action today. I'm not comfortable sitting back and wandering, I want to "rest" in His plan by taking it by the wheel and being willing to listen to that still small navigational voice, who loves me.
Though I haven't talked about it so much directly, with knowledge come responsibility. Now that you know, now that I know - will we act? I choose to act.
That fact [that I am not my own] makes my search for a clear mission and vision statement something that is difficult because, in a sense, it is second hand, something that I’ve been given. Yet the gift must also encompass my personal reaction and commitment to what has been given. Again, with knowledge comes responsibility.I was speaking of being given a mission and/or vision by God Himself. Yet, even though it is quite clear from scripture that God reveals Himself to us first, there is this - sometimes difficult to understand part about our ability to choose. This relates to the search or investigation of my mission, in that while I do believe God gives us mission and purpose through the Holy Spirit, we must, most of the time, choose to participate before we see that purpose actualized.
For years I taught Jr. High and Sr. High Youth Groups and one analogy that always seemed useful was that of the giving away of my car. I would hold out my keys and say, "here are my keys, you can have my car." Of course, there was something that had to happen before they could realize the benefit of actually going somewhere in my car. What is it? They have to reach out and take the keys, start the car, and start driving.
Now to make the analogy a little more theologically correct, it is Jesus who gives us the car and the keys, it is Jesus who gives us the strength to reach out and take the keys, it is Jesus who gives us knowledge about how the car works, it is Jesus who drives through us as He directs us by His Spirit. But still, there is this mysterious component of our will involved. It's not that we're somehow earning the car or deserving the car by reaching out and taking the keys, just like we can not, through any action, earn or deserve eternal life with Jesus. What does He do? He first asks us to believe, and then because we believe, we act. Because a student believed that I was actually giving him my car, he took my keys and drove away. (OK, not really, but I was always a little nervous every time I shared the story!)
So then, with regard to our mission, vision, and values, we too must first believe, then choose to act . It will be Christ doing the work through us, yet because He has allowed us to see that hinder hinting of His glory, like Moses, we move forward with our mission toward our vision and we do it with purpose, with resolve, with focus, and with faith. If we are following His call, His plan for our lives, then our living Mission will cause us to take the keys and drive places we didn't even realize were there!
Are we willing? Are we going to get outside of our comfort zone? Are we going to believe that there really is a gift of God's plan for our life? If we do, are we reaching for the keys? Have we taken the leap of faith to believe enough to take the keys? Do we have the peace of God ruling in our hearts that enables us to open the door? Are we willing to trust Him to turn the key? Once we get started, are we willing to let Him navigate? Fortunately, our Mission statement is like one of those motel maps that have some of the potential highlights in the general direction we're going. His Word is a complete set of driving instructions, His Spirit is there to speak to us about the path to take. Do we want to see the sights that God has planned for us, or will we be content with either sitting there, or simply driving in familiar circles?
I'm encouraged and excited that as I continue to refine my mission and vision statements, with direction from the Spirit, I will be able to go places that He intends. The best part is, I have good company in the car with me - the Godhead, my family, my friends, my mentors, and those saints and martyrs that have stood as witnesses and shown as beacons of Christ's light for all to see. I'm stirred to action today. I'm not comfortable sitting back and wandering, I want to "rest" in His plan by taking it by the wheel and being willing to listen to that still small navigational voice, who loves me.
Though I haven't talked about it so much directly, with knowledge come responsibility. Now that you know, now that I know - will we act? I choose to act.
MBA Journal Begins
I've been asked to keep a daily journal of thoughts and introspection on my journey through my MBA program that I'm pursuing through George Fox University, Boise extension. My first class, Mission and Vision, started Wednesday night and this is my first post. Each post must have, for maximum points, a significant level of introspection, insight, thoughtfulness, and will likely result in a significant level of behavior modification. As I will not be satisfied with anything less than outstanding for this and other courses in this program, I intend on doing my best to exceed that goal.
So far we've read half of a book called "The Path" by Laurie Beth Jones and wrote a paper summarizing my introspection of some exercises done from the text. I'm not going to comment much on that here, except to say that I believe, as with any book, one must "chew the fruit and spit out the seeds". Overall I did enjoy the book and the exercises that Jones prescribed in assisting the reader come up with a personal mission and vision statement were very good. I've gone through this process before, but this was a good refresher and Laurie's style was very free flowing and easy to use.
Tonight's reading and study was on the APA format (a little dry, but helpful), as well as a series of handouts referring to Mission, Vision, and listings of habits, rules, and/or virtues from famous men. One item that stood out for me personally was the "11 Simple Rules" of Dave Packard, fo-founder of Hewlett-Packard. I worked at HP for about 10 years and was able to first hand see these rules in action, though it has been very many years since the companies founding and the publishing of Dave's rules. In particular, Dave's first rule "Think first of the other fellow" is an excellent foundation to lay for all the other rules. Not only does this strike a cord in me of Christ's exhortation for us to love other's first, it also brings to mind the power of a simple statement with profound implications.
As I've been digging back into my own personal mission and vision, the concepts of love, service, and other mindedness are there. Because the Lord has done so much for me, I feel an obligation of love to those around me to think of them first. I don't always do that of course, but that's my goal and what I strive for. Thinking first of others keeps us humble, keeps us flexible and accepting of others, keeps us focused on listening and understanding before being important and being heard. From a business perspective it also keeps us focused on the customer, both internal and external. Time and again, and especially more recently, businesses who truly focus on customers and their loyalty, are business who see success. The law of reciprocity applies, when we focus on others' needs, we tend to be rewarded in return.
Regarding my behavior modification, this is yet another reminder that God's principles apply universally to all people, and that I must not only believe in thinking about other's first, I must also remiain vigiliant in doing it - and not for the sake of having said I did, but because its' the right thing to do, for them.
So far we've read half of a book called "The Path" by Laurie Beth Jones and wrote a paper summarizing my introspection of some exercises done from the text. I'm not going to comment much on that here, except to say that I believe, as with any book, one must "chew the fruit and spit out the seeds". Overall I did enjoy the book and the exercises that Jones prescribed in assisting the reader come up with a personal mission and vision statement were very good. I've gone through this process before, but this was a good refresher and Laurie's style was very free flowing and easy to use.
Tonight's reading and study was on the APA format (a little dry, but helpful), as well as a series of handouts referring to Mission, Vision, and listings of habits, rules, and/or virtues from famous men. One item that stood out for me personally was the "11 Simple Rules" of Dave Packard, fo-founder of Hewlett-Packard. I worked at HP for about 10 years and was able to first hand see these rules in action, though it has been very many years since the companies founding and the publishing of Dave's rules. In particular, Dave's first rule "Think first of the other fellow" is an excellent foundation to lay for all the other rules. Not only does this strike a cord in me of Christ's exhortation for us to love other's first, it also brings to mind the power of a simple statement with profound implications.
As I've been digging back into my own personal mission and vision, the concepts of love, service, and other mindedness are there. Because the Lord has done so much for me, I feel an obligation of love to those around me to think of them first. I don't always do that of course, but that's my goal and what I strive for. Thinking first of others keeps us humble, keeps us flexible and accepting of others, keeps us focused on listening and understanding before being important and being heard. From a business perspective it also keeps us focused on the customer, both internal and external. Time and again, and especially more recently, businesses who truly focus on customers and their loyalty, are business who see success. The law of reciprocity applies, when we focus on others' needs, we tend to be rewarded in return.
Regarding my behavior modification, this is yet another reminder that God's principles apply universally to all people, and that I must not only believe in thinking about other's first, I must also remiain vigiliant in doing it - and not for the sake of having said I did, but because its' the right thing to do, for them.
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