OK, take a deep breath. Pause. Evaluate. Focus. Then let it fly.
That’s leadership in action.
This summer my schedule allowed me to engage in activities which differed from the usual work fare. I taught a Spiritual Leadership class for a week in Chiang Mai, Thailand, stayed home for a month straight, attended the excellent Leadership Summit with a few team members, spent a lazy day on the beach with Ann, prayed daily for my daughter’s 5-week mission to Mexico City, and launched my son into his freshman year at the University of Florida.
Now it’s time to refocus.
The laws of physics teach us that impact is a product of mass moving in a specific direction. The same is true in each area of our lives. Whether our challenge is changing stubborn habits or motivating people to accomplish a seemingly impossible goal, focused mass moving in one direction results in impact.
As I sit down to sift through the stuff of life this weekend, here are some questions I’ll be asking myself:
Focus. Clear the desk. Shut the door. In light of my calling, gifts and strengths, what few areas demand my focused attention for the next 30-60 days? Answering this question first will help me…
Prioritize. Amid the blinking lights, exciting opportunities, network of relationships, and lingering “undones,” which people or projects need immediate attention in light of my focus?
Sequence. Is there a natural, obvious order of who or what needs to come first or second? Would it be better to wait on this until more information comes in? Leaders schedule their priorities, they don’t just attempt to prioritize an existing schedule.
Follow Through. Put it on the calendar. Make the phone call. Write the thank you note. Set aside the time to dream, think and make connections. Courageously initiate that fierce conversation. Run the 5 miles. Take that nap.
Real leadership ultimately produces real results.
Insight for us: What do I need to do next?