Here is #3 in the Leadership Ticklers series. It challenges us to think beyond ourselves and to the benefit of other people and worthwhile causes.
Today’s Leadership Tickler: What really matters?
Entrepreneur and author August Turak stated, “We are most satisfied when we are in service of something bigger than ourselves.”
Think through the many things to which you give your time. Are they things which will have long-term benefit for your family or organization, or are they things that just get you through the day? All of us have to do some basic activities of life which we must do, however, whenever we can, the best leaders are focused on a larger world view. Great leaders serve other’s needs before themselves and contribute to causes that go far beyond their own personal use.
Through the years, when training others to recruit volunteers to a project, I’ve made the statement “People want to be a part of a winning team and one that is bigger than themselves.” This is true in every kind of organization and living system. People are drawn to a bigger view, a higher cause, and an activity which will have a positive impact on the world. So, as you lead, paint a picture of the good that will come from joining the team’s efforts. Encourage people to think beyond themselves. When they do, you will find that they discover how satisfying life becomes when we have our eyes on others and do things that are greater because it’s not just for our own benefit. Lead with the bigger picture in mind as well.
Lead well.