Many of us can relate to the experience of either having a bad boss or being the bad boss. I do not believe that we begin our leadership journey with these intentions. The reality is stuff happens, our egos can become inflated and our emotions can easily overload. The bad Read more…
“If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.” A few weeks ago, I attended a speech contest for Toastmasters District 28. The winners from eight divisions were competing for the district title. The district winner would advance to the international level contest in August. Weeks of preparation would culminate Read more…
Words to live by. Those catchy, memorable phrases that shape our convictions, character and conduct. We gather them from books, people, articles and perhaps even TV shows. In a split second we can recall a statement grilled into our minds by a parent, grandparent or mentor. “Common sense is not Read more…
You have heard the saying, “you are what you eat.” It is a phrase intended to trigger thoughts about wise eating decisions. As a child, I did not find it particularly persuasive. The warm, sweet aroma of a fresh baked cake, pie, cookies or brownies was definitely more enticing. Why Read more…
“So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12 “Your necklace is beautiful,” I said while gazing at a glass teardrop hanging on a simple black string around my friend’s neck. It was Read more…
I am huge fan of the Marvel Studios movies with Iron Man being my personal favorite to date. Like millions of people, I had been anticipating the release of the Black Panther for months. I was curious to see how this character, his powers and his country would be portrayed Read more…
Get good grades … preferably A’s and B’s. This was a predominant expectation of my childhood. Excelling in school was the key to all future successes. So I was led to believe. Good grades in high school presented greater choices for college. A stellar college grade point average opened Read more…
“You can’t pour from an empty cup.” I have a hectic schedule. I bet that statement resonates with you. It seems to be the norm. We are busy. It doesn’t mean we are productive or effective with our days. We are simply busy. Chances are you’re running on fumes and Read more…
“Continuity gives us roots; change gives us branches, letting us stretch and grow and reach new heights.” —Pauline R. Kezer Change is inevitable. Seasons change. Technology changes. Processes change. Leaders change. People change. Sooner or later, everything changes. Presently, my life seems to be filled with change. I have the opportunity Read more…
What is effective leadership? It may be difficult to pin down a definition. But it is certainly easy to recognize effective leadership. One way to define effective leadership is allowing people to get to know you, believe in you and, ultimately, go along with you towards a shared vision and common Read more…