Prisoners or Passion?
02/10/04
John Borchert, General Manager for The Array Corp/Prison Blues Clothing Line in Pendleton, Oregon reminds us of two things about leadership: "Prisoners learn early that the way to survive on the inside is to keep low profile and follow orders. Sadly, that's the lesson that workers in most businesses learn. I'm proud of what I do. I work in a prison, and I'm more fulfilled than ever."
Do your people act like prisoners when you want them to be free thinkers? Do they just lay low and follow orders or do they risk innovating and pushing the envelope for positive and strategic change? Every company has a culture and the expectations are taught by the leaders and the staff. Sometimes the leaders call for involvement and empowerment, but the workers pull them aside after the meeting and say, "That's not the way it is here. Let me tell you the truth about how to get by here." What do your people say about the unwritten rules of performance on your team? We want a contagious culture that excites and challenges rather than one that stifles and deadens.
There is something else that comes across in John's comments--He loves what he does! Are you an energizer who authentically loves what you are doing? If not, find your own passion before you try to enliven others. If you can't find it; start looking for another job. Your people deserve a leader who believes that your mission is worthy of your own time and commitment. Are you a prisoner? Do you see any other prisoners in your midst? Set yourself and your team free.
A PAULSON QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"Your people deserve a leader who believes that your mission is worthy of your own time and commitment." --Terry Paulson, Ph.D.
MONDAY'S MIRTHFUL MOMENT
This week's mirthful moment comes from C. Abel in Dr. Ann Weeks Weeks of Fun # 364. Enjoy some of these quotes from people you will recognize!
"By all means marry: If you get a good wife, you'll become happy; if you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher".- Socrates
"The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good ending and having the two as close together as possible." - George Burns
"Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint." - Mark Twain
"What would men be without women? Scarce, sir, mighty scarce." - Mark Twain
"I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury." - Groucho Marx
"The secret of staying young is to live honestly, eat slowly, and lie about your age." - Lucille Ball
When you keep your eyes open for mirth, you just may find it! Hope this kicks off your morning and helps get your mood adjusted for the week. Now, get busy MAKING CHANGE WORK and have some fun along the way!...