Tag Archive - john maxwell

The Leader’s Inner Circle

January 29, 2009 in Leadership with Comments Off

Something that I have learned is that a leader’s potential is determined by those closest to him or her.

I read an incredible article about this by John Maxwell the other day. Below is the summary version. When you get time, go read the full version HERE.

Questions to Ask of Candidates for Your Inner Circle:

  1. Do they display exemplary character in everything they do?
  2. Do they bring complementary gifts to the table?
  3. Do they hold a strategic position and have influence within the organization?
  4. Do they add value to the organization and to the leader?
  5. Do they positively impact other members of the inner circle?

Traps to Avoid when Staffing Your Inner Circle:

  1. Soliciting praise instead of candor.
  2. Driving away talent so that your power isn’t threatened.
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Back in the BOOK Groove

October 12, 2007 in Blogging, Goals, GOD, Leadership, Productivity with Comments Off

As a leader I have always felt the need to read. I also feel the need for speed…but that is another post for another day.

Before Catalyst, I sensed that I was lagging in my reading. Life just happens and takes its course sometimes…and with training for my first 1/2 marathon, having a new baby, and all that’s going on at TCC, I guess it was just easy to put the books down. I just got too busy.

Then, at Catalyst, John Maxwell (leadership GODFATHER) said this: “Great leaders are first listeners, then learners, then leaders.”

Listening is something I am always working on, but I set a new goal at Catalyst that has more to do with being a learner: to read at least 30 minutes a day. I know, its a crummy goal, but so far I have done great with it. Knocked out 3 books in just the last 6 days. And it feels great.

John F. Kennedy – the youngest man ever to be elected President of the United States – said, “Leadership and learning are indispensable to one another.”

And, Benjamin Franklin said “If you empty your purse in your head, no one can take it away from you. An investment in knowledge always pays the best interest.”

So, are you “too busy to learn?”Because I am learning that having that perspective is extremely expensive. Especially when it comes to leadership. Get out there and read. And please, put down the stinking Left Behind books.

:)

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