The ability to influence is an essential leadership skill. The dictionary defines influence as “the act or power of producing an effect without apparent exertion of force or direct exercise of command”. Effective leaders influence without being dictatorial. When a leader inspires a group of individuals to work toward the achievement of a common goal …
Influence: An Important Tool For Successful Leadership Read More »
Most of us are comfortable speaking and communicating with other people and do so every day. Yet, for some reason, when it comes to speaking from a public platform, most people shrink back because they feel inadequate. Why is this? “We get virtually no training in these skills. We’re just expected to know them”, says …
The house lights go down. A hush falls. The spotlight comes up on the silent figure front and center. The baton is raised. Without a sound, the conductor is in total command. There is far more to a conductor’s life than delivering a stellar performance. What is seen is the tip of an iceberg. There …
When I was a child, one of my favorite toys was Bozo the clown. Our inflatable Bozo might have been 3 feet tall, which means he was about the same size as me. Bozo provided my first lessons in resilience and consistency. I could bop him in the nose and he would bounce right back. …
Resilience: Bouncing Back from Disappointment, Difficulty, and Disaster Read More »
Panama City is a military town where every day is like Veteran’s Day. Patriotism is a strong part of the fabric of our community. Jennifer Clark moved to Panama City when she was assigned to Tyndall Air Force Base. Her story is documented in her book, 166 Days: My Journey Through the Darkness. When Jennifer …
Extreme ChangeThree hours on the afternoon of October 10, 2018, changed everything for this little city I call home. Mighty oaks that have stood through hundreds of storms couldn’t withstand the power of Hurricane Michael. The incessant roar of the wind deafened the sound of giant trees crashing all around as we crouched in a …
If you’ve never experienced a Category 4 hurricane, I urge you emphatically – don’t do it. Do whatever it takes to pack up your valuables and get out of town. Hurricane Michael caused a setback of enormous proportions for the Panhandle of Florida. The Shock of Setback After the harrowing experience of riding out Hurricane …
Unity is one of the most effective ways to achieve progress in anything. It is one of the most powerful forces on the planet, which explains why it’s so difficult to obtain, much less sustain. Unity is oneness, yet it exponentially multiplies the magnitude of any effort. Too little is written about it, perhaps because …
Thrive, not strive is my new mantra. Rise and grind is how tons of people start Monday. Rush, work, and strive through pressure, stress, and frustration. If this sounds all too familiar, it’s time to make room for thriving and flourishing. How can you shift negativity into motivation? Wouldn’t it be grand if instead of …
Leadership leaves a legacy. Senator John McCain wrote a farewell statement to America before his passing on August 25, 2018 at age 81. As a student of leadership, and one who loves America passionately, I am moved deeply by the words of John McCain. (I took the liberty to bold some text within his message.) …
Leadership Leaves a Legacy: Farewell from Senator John McCain Read More »