In the new millenium, your
leadership talents will be constantly tested and challenged. Whether you are
leading at work, in the community or at home, the courage to explore your attitudes
and aptitudes will be one of your most influential qualities. Courage and change
go hand in hand when it comes to increasing your effectiveness as a leader,
As you review these ten
statements ask yourself, "Where do I need to change, grow and stretch to
reach my full capacity?"
1.The courage to seek
the truth. I am willing to seek out unpleasant truths, even when they may
conflict with things I have a great investment in, or when the truth may threaten
my physical, intellectual, or emotional security. I recognize that my personal
freedom depends on my ability to seek and find truth.
2.The courage to lead
an ethical life. In a cynical, sometimes dissolute world, I realize that
it takes courage to be ethical. I resist the temptation to be less than ethical,
even when "everyone is doing it." I regard honest people as heroes, not fools.
3.The courage to be
involved. Apathy and indifference can be more devastating than any natural
or man-made disasters. Despite occasional compassion fatigue, I remain committed
to making a difference and getting others involved. I refuse to look the other
way.
4. The courage to reject
cynicism. Cynicism is a comforting and protective refuge, but one I resist
vigilantly. I know that trust and optimism, essential to a productive life,
are impossible if I give in to the cowardice of cynicism.
5. The courage to assume
responsibility. I alone am responsible for my actions, whether they lead
to success or failure. I refuse to waste time on making excuses, harboring unrealistic
hopes, or placing blame. I am willing to share responsibility and accountability
with others, and back them up 100 percent if things go wrong.
6.The courage to lead
at home. I know that my home and family are my most powerful legacy for
the future. I mentor my children, giving them equal love and discipline. I'm
there 100 percent for my partner. I honor my parents and older relatives, even
if advanced age, ill health, or different values make communication seem difficult
and unrewarding. I live each day with my family and won't think, tomorrow I'll
have more time.
7.The courage to persist.
I have the courage to delay gratification, to endure the long haul, and
to make sacrifices when necessary. I frequently visualize the next few years
and anticipate the results of my actions. I summon the inner resources to stay
on track by keeping my eye on this big picture.
8. The courage to serve.
In an ego-driven, success-driven society, I have the courage to put myself second.
I realize that the loftiest leader is the one who serves others best. My job,
no matter what the description or title, is to provide satisfaction, solve problems,
fill needs, and find answers in a way that enhances and empowers those around
me.
9. The courage to lead.
Few people are willing to stand for something, or even to clarify what they
would stand for if they could. Others criticize without offering solutions,
but I concentrate on what I stand for, on solutions and goals, and on how I
can motivate others to action. I'm not content to wait for someone else to take
charge and point a direction.
10. The courage to follow.
Unlike leaders of image, a leader of substance knows when and how to follow
willingly. I have learned the benefits of being a good follower, of welcoming
the ideas and contributions of others without feeling that my position or integrity
has been challenged. By sharing power, I increase my own personal and professional
power, and make myself aware of the challenges that others face every day.
Having the courage of your
convictions will help you boldly meet today's challenges. Believing in your
physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual standards and values enables
you to apply your resources and creative energy when faced with problems. Eleanor
Roosevelt said, "You must do the thing you cannot do," General George
C. Patton said that courage is "fear holding on another minute." Examining
your courage and making changes as you grow in your leadership capacity is the
example that enables others to have the courage to follow.
© Copyright Bethel Institute
2000
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