Proverbs 17:16 (AMP) Of what use is money in the hand of a [self-confident] fool to buy skillful and godly Wisdom--when he has no understanding or heart for it?
When I read this today, I could not help but think of the AIG boondoggle and ancillary stories of funds misused. Funds were given without the oversight needed to change processes - yielding a different result. The use of taxpayer money was neither skillful nor Godly. And then, there is the foolishness of the recipient, ignoring the intent of the gift, continues to do things in the same manner producing an old result. The stories coming out of Wall Street seem to beg the question: what good is it to provide money seeing that they have no mind for wisdom in the use of it?
For business leaders, the analogy may break down with rigorous analysis; however, one lesson for Leaders is that God’s great goodness is spent even on those who are living life as fools - the ones who are in the most need and have no desire for Him.
Your team, employees, vendors, customers need to see, in you, the practical behavior that results from your willingness to “buy skillful and godly Wisdom.” The world needs to see in our behavior that our purchase was worth the price and that the Wisdom given remains unchanged - unlike the mercurial movement of relative truth. Armed with the Word, we point those watching in the direction of eternal truths that have, time and time again, proven valuable in a business setting.
Believing leader: remember, God reached out for us when we were fools (self-absorbed in life, operating as our own god); because of His grace, we now have a heart for Wisdom. Let His grace shine brightly in your life.
Are you willing to “let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven…?”
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Monday, March 16, 2009
Leaders Take Time to Reflect
Prov. 16:2 (NLT) People may be pure in their own eyes, but the Lord examines their motives.
Pride, seeing my intentions and behavior to be “pure,” gets in the way of most everything we do: the reason? The subtle expressions of pride often happen in the little things that we don’t face and resolve. The accumulation of those unresolved expressions build up behaviors that often have national consequence.
The current economic conditions of 2008-2009 reflect the power of pride, not expressed as haughtiness, but expressed as “the pride of life” that drives people to take mortgages out they could not possibly afford and large financial companies paying out “bonuses” for purposes of “retention” rather than as reward for performance. When pinned down, these people, great and small, easily point the finger outward: never inward.
That’s why this writer continually writes on the heart (motives). Recently, having forgotten a previous agreement, I insisted on grabbing a check for dinner. My behavior, born of my “pure” motive to thank a friend for his recent help, was so overriding that I pushed back in my mind my previous commitment that each couple would pay their own portion of the bill. Between that conversation and dinner, I purposed to pay, driven by a complex of internal motives that were not revealed until after “I won the check-grab.” What words came out as my friend was challenging me were not pure, but prideful: my behavior was full of self - a twinkle in my eye, a “gotcha” in my heart.
It was in the quiet of evening prayer that I realized how easily I had succumbed to “it’s all about me.” What I wanted to do. What I saw was “right.” How pride had driven motive and memory. My motives, even though one could consider them honorable, were all about me – not about “us.”
Do you take the time to listen to what God is saying in your heart, in a quiet time of reflection?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Pride, seeing my intentions and behavior to be “pure,” gets in the way of most everything we do: the reason? The subtle expressions of pride often happen in the little things that we don’t face and resolve. The accumulation of those unresolved expressions build up behaviors that often have national consequence.
The current economic conditions of 2008-2009 reflect the power of pride, not expressed as haughtiness, but expressed as “the pride of life” that drives people to take mortgages out they could not possibly afford and large financial companies paying out “bonuses” for purposes of “retention” rather than as reward for performance. When pinned down, these people, great and small, easily point the finger outward: never inward.
That’s why this writer continually writes on the heart (motives). Recently, having forgotten a previous agreement, I insisted on grabbing a check for dinner. My behavior, born of my “pure” motive to thank a friend for his recent help, was so overriding that I pushed back in my mind my previous commitment that each couple would pay their own portion of the bill. Between that conversation and dinner, I purposed to pay, driven by a complex of internal motives that were not revealed until after “I won the check-grab.” What words came out as my friend was challenging me were not pure, but prideful: my behavior was full of self - a twinkle in my eye, a “gotcha” in my heart.
It was in the quiet of evening prayer that I realized how easily I had succumbed to “it’s all about me.” What I wanted to do. What I saw was “right.” How pride had driven motive and memory. My motives, even though one could consider them honorable, were all about me – not about “us.”
Do you take the time to listen to what God is saying in your heart, in a quiet time of reflection?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, March 13, 2009
Collaborative Change Management Success Begins with Humility
Proverbs 13:10 (MSG) Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other's counsel.
In a discussion about misplaced arrogance in leaders, the Center for Creative Leadership recently reminded its audience, “The leading reason managers [leaders] with impressive track records and high potential get knocked off the career track is their inability or unwillingness to change.”
Our current state of the economy - less customers; inventory building; layoffs occurring; a host of challenges to the status quo - demands change. Collaboration becomes the key resource in a small business. Interdependence yields team-based results. Rowing the boat in sync helps manage the stormy seas of the economy. This is not the time for arrogance.
As Jim Collins, author of Good to Great discovered, leaders who successfully manage change are not only humble, but also have learned to collaborate.
Are you fostering collaboration? Are you willing to listen?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
In a discussion about misplaced arrogance in leaders, the Center for Creative Leadership recently reminded its audience, “The leading reason managers [leaders] with impressive track records and high potential get knocked off the career track is their inability or unwillingness to change.”
Our current state of the economy - less customers; inventory building; layoffs occurring; a host of challenges to the status quo - demands change. Collaboration becomes the key resource in a small business. Interdependence yields team-based results. Rowing the boat in sync helps manage the stormy seas of the economy. This is not the time for arrogance.
As Jim Collins, author of Good to Great discovered, leaders who successfully manage change are not only humble, but also have learned to collaborate.
Are you fostering collaboration? Are you willing to listen?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, March 12, 2009
Effective Leadership Begins at the Interview
Proverbs 12:13 (NLT) The wicked are trapped by their own words, but the godly escape such trouble.
When Dr. Donn Lobdell, head of R&D for COBE Labs, a high-tech medical device manufacturing company, was asked by the Denver Business Journal, "What's the most important part of your job?" he replied, "Hiring is the most important part of my job, because when you're hiring, you're creating the future of your company."
Good questions to get the interviewee talking are vital. Seemingly innocent questions work wonders. Questions like:
The answers reveal character qualities and patterns of thinking that give you a glimpse at the heart. To be effective, your heart and the words you speak aloud must be congruent. Remember, what comes out of the mouth has its source in the heart. Skilled “hands” and great hearts build successfully organizations.
Do you have the heart to ask insightful questions?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
When Dr. Donn Lobdell, head of R&D for COBE Labs, a high-tech medical device manufacturing company, was asked by the Denver Business Journal, "What's the most important part of your job?" he replied, "Hiring is the most important part of my job, because when you're hiring, you're creating the future of your company."
Good questions to get the interviewee talking are vital. Seemingly innocent questions work wonders. Questions like:
“Tell me about where you grew up?” [What issues do they talk about? Does their answer show awareness of the times and what it meant to their maturation?]
“Describe the work environment that invigorated you?" [What is important to them?]
"Tell me about the corporate culture where you experienced the most success.” [This is another way to ask the same question - is the answer essentially the same?]
“What are the three most important values you demonstrate as a leader/manager/team member?"
"Tell me a story that demonstrates how you made those values real within your workplace.” [This helps see if the values are platitudes or prompters to behavior]
The answers reveal character qualities and patterns of thinking that give you a glimpse at the heart. To be effective, your heart and the words you speak aloud must be congruent. Remember, what comes out of the mouth has its source in the heart. Skilled “hands” and great hearts build successfully organizations.
Do you have the heart to ask insightful questions?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Servant-Leaders Begin with a Humble Heart
Proverbs 11:2 (NIV) When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
In John Kotter & James Heskett’s book, Corporate Culture and Performance, they explored with empirical research how the “culture” of a corporation influences performance. They found that strong leaders:
Their research revealed that arrogance, inward focus and encumbering bureaucracy are all features of a company in disgrace – unable to adapt to change.
Scripture says that hidden in humility is wisdom: the last sentence of Kotter & Heskett’s’ book says, “…if leaders do not have the hearts of servants, there is only the potential for tyranny.”
There it is again: positive, productive leadership begins in the heart.
Got the heart to be a servant-leader?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
In John Kotter & James Heskett’s book, Corporate Culture and Performance, they explored with empirical research how the “culture” of a corporation influences performance. They found that strong leaders:
- “Do not tolerate arrogance in others…
- They remind people often of who they must serve….
- They keep their own egos under control. They make room for other egos.”
Their research revealed that arrogance, inward focus and encumbering bureaucracy are all features of a company in disgrace – unable to adapt to change.
Scripture says that hidden in humility is wisdom: the last sentence of Kotter & Heskett’s’ book says, “…if leaders do not have the hearts of servants, there is only the potential for tyranny.”
There it is again: positive, productive leadership begins in the heart.
Got the heart to be a servant-leader?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Leadership & Wealth
Proverbs 10:22 (NLT) The blessing of the LORD makes a person rich, and he adds no sorrow with it.
The source of riches is being much discussed in 2009. Getting and keeping wealth has become an issue. Some candidates for Administration positions tried to manipulate the “keeping” part, and were exposed. Because of the market conditions, several financiers have been exposed who were manipulating the “getting’ part and damaging thousands of lives.
Humility drives our understanding that The Creator has a powerful role in the acquisition of riches. He gives us the brains, the timing, the circumstances. Of course, we have the responsibility to correctly take advantage of those gifts. Sometimes we do not. At least, I know I’ve not at times. “I” got in the way because I was leaning on my own understanding. I tried to manipulate my small world – my private expression of arrogance and not humility.
One of the lessons I learned was that leadership should be focused on who we are, not what we are accomplishing. Wealth is not the goal of a wise person, but may be a consequence – one that comes free and clear. Let the Lord determine who will receive the blessings of riches that carry no sorrow.
Business leaders who keep their focus on Him (“seek first the kingdom of God”) lead without damaging those around them (or generations to come). They have learned first to follow so they can better lead. If riches result because of their choices, they acknowledge the source – God who gave them the paths to follow and the impact on wealth that path yielded.
Do not forget, even in this bad economy, those of us living in America, by global standards are wealthy indeed. We must be thankful for the wealth we have and not covet the wealth some others may have.
Are you thankful?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
The source of riches is being much discussed in 2009. Getting and keeping wealth has become an issue. Some candidates for Administration positions tried to manipulate the “keeping” part, and were exposed. Because of the market conditions, several financiers have been exposed who were manipulating the “getting’ part and damaging thousands of lives.
Humility drives our understanding that The Creator has a powerful role in the acquisition of riches. He gives us the brains, the timing, the circumstances. Of course, we have the responsibility to correctly take advantage of those gifts. Sometimes we do not. At least, I know I’ve not at times. “I” got in the way because I was leaning on my own understanding. I tried to manipulate my small world – my private expression of arrogance and not humility.
One of the lessons I learned was that leadership should be focused on who we are, not what we are accomplishing. Wealth is not the goal of a wise person, but may be a consequence – one that comes free and clear. Let the Lord determine who will receive the blessings of riches that carry no sorrow.
Business leaders who keep their focus on Him (“seek first the kingdom of God”) lead without damaging those around them (or generations to come). They have learned first to follow so they can better lead. If riches result because of their choices, they acknowledge the source – God who gave them the paths to follow and the impact on wealth that path yielded.
Do not forget, even in this bad economy, those of us living in America, by global standards are wealthy indeed. We must be thankful for the wealth we have and not covet the wealth some others may have.
Are you thankful?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, March 09, 2009
Life Is Full Of Choices
Proverbs 9: (NIV) 4"Let all who are simple come in here!" 16"Let all who are simple come in here!"
Twice in this chapter the same words are used: the first time it is Wisdom calling out; and the second time it is the siren song of the seductress – Folly, she is called.
At face value, seems a simple choice. Not so. The seductress is subtle, often mixing the messages easily and with little distinction from the calls of Wisdom.
Discernment demands discipline. Godly leaders must be rooted in a Christian Worldview to better discriminate between the calls. But often, acute decision-making is blocked by repeated simple behaviors that reflect Folly, not Wisdom: Examples may include:
Leaders face many kinds of choices.
To which invitation will you respond: Wisdom’s or Folly’s?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Twice in this chapter the same words are used: the first time it is Wisdom calling out; and the second time it is the siren song of the seductress – Folly, she is called.
At face value, seems a simple choice. Not so. The seductress is subtle, often mixing the messages easily and with little distinction from the calls of Wisdom.
Discernment demands discipline. Godly leaders must be rooted in a Christian Worldview to better discriminate between the calls. But often, acute decision-making is blocked by repeated simple behaviors that reflect Folly, not Wisdom: Examples may include:
A sharp word of rebuke in public vs. a quiet correction in private;The former are self-centered: the later are other-centered. Real choices.
A belittling remark vs. an encouraging comment; and,
willingness to book business you know will fall out vs. reporting only what is really sold.
Leaders face many kinds of choices.
To which invitation will you respond: Wisdom’s or Folly’s?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, March 06, 2009
Leadership – Life Long Learning
Proverbs 6:6-11 (MSG) You lazy fool, look at an ant. Watch it closely; let it teach you a thing or two. Nobody has to tell it what to do. All summer it stores up food; at harvest it stockpiles provisions. So how long are you going to laze around doing nothing? How long before you get out of bed? A nap here, a nap there, a day off here, a day off there, sit back, take it easy--do you know what comes next? Just this: You can look forward to a dirt-poor life, poverty your permanent houseguest!
Diligence in living your life or in your work (and especially if you are running a business) is vital to healthy companies and a healthy personal growth.
Leaders must have the capacity to observe all that life offers, to learn and then apply that knowledge wisely in the work place. This is a process of life-long learning - antithesis of laziness.
Much may be learned from the study of ant behavior. (Link here for more.) For example, ants may be the only group of animals besides us in which interactive teaching behavior has been observed during their life. That learning seems also to be future-focused, teaching younger ants what they need to know to be effective producers.
Like the ant, leaders should be mentoring. Sharing the “tricks of the trade.” Allowing the “mentee” to discover some “wrong ways” to do something so that a better way may be learned. Answering questions with questions or telling a story and letting the employee work at discovery. Learning. Leaders are then building a succession plan that has a potential of success.
Who are you teaching? Who are your grooming?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Diligence in living your life or in your work (and especially if you are running a business) is vital to healthy companies and a healthy personal growth.
Leaders must have the capacity to observe all that life offers, to learn and then apply that knowledge wisely in the work place. This is a process of life-long learning - antithesis of laziness.
Much may be learned from the study of ant behavior. (Link here for more.) For example, ants may be the only group of animals besides us in which interactive teaching behavior has been observed during their life. That learning seems also to be future-focused, teaching younger ants what they need to know to be effective producers.
Like the ant, leaders should be mentoring. Sharing the “tricks of the trade.” Allowing the “mentee” to discover some “wrong ways” to do something so that a better way may be learned. Answering questions with questions or telling a story and letting the employee work at discovery. Learning. Leaders are then building a succession plan that has a potential of success.
Who are you teaching? Who are your grooming?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, March 05, 2009
Effective Leaders Ponder the “Right Stuff”
Proverbs 5: 6 (NKJV) Lest you ponder her [a sexually promiscuous woman’s] path of life-- Her ways are unstable; you do not know them. ( Phil. 4:8*)
People at work often times are put in situations that can breed the wrong kind of “pondering.”
Godly leaders (at home or at work) are called to bring captive every thought by being saturated with Wisdom. “Summing it all up… I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.”*
Meditating on the Word is foundational. In addition, developing an integrated Christian Worldview will yield insights, attitudes and behaviors that make the Sunday stuff alive at work and play.
Ponder that!
People at work often times are put in situations that can breed the wrong kind of “pondering.”
Godly leaders (at home or at work) are called to bring captive every thought by being saturated with Wisdom. “Summing it all up… I'd say you'll do best by filling your minds and meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious—the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.”*
Meditating on the Word is foundational. In addition, developing an integrated Christian Worldview will yield insights, attitudes and behaviors that make the Sunday stuff alive at work and play.
Ponder that!
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Wednesday, March 04, 2009
The Heart of a Leader
Proverbs 4:23 (MSG) Keep vigilant watch over your heart; that's where life starts.
Effective leadership is a heart issue. The “heart” is where feelings, behavior, attitudes, hidden thoughts live. It is where “life starts.”
Scripture also teaches that the heart is very wicked and deceitful - so much so, it can fool us. That's why it must be guarded. The older I get, the more I understand how much personal discipline it really takes to become a "person after God's own heart."
Not guarding the heart allows it to wander, and it is very easily done - especially in a culture that stimulates the prurient as the driver for purchasing almost anything today. Interesting word – prurient – comes from the Latin meaning “to itch.”
People at work often times are put in situations that can breed “prurient pondering.” Behaviors have changed. The unintended consequences of how people dress, what the joke about, and what they notice sometimes creates an “itch” that we scratch by “pondering.”
Effective leaders think of others before thinking of self (prurient pondering is innately selfish!) This kind of leadership demands a humble heart, which takes effort on our part and that effort is focused on guarding our heart – keeping the pondering in check.
To become better prepared for work, do you spend as much time reading the Word as you do the Harvard Business Review? The former, aimed at filling the heart with God-thoughts, will not only yield more than the latter about the issues of life, but also will make implementing insights from HBR more effective. Their articles can be helpful, but even more so when you see how research lines up so often with Biblical principles.
Are you disciplined for leadership?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Effective leadership is a heart issue. The “heart” is where feelings, behavior, attitudes, hidden thoughts live. It is where “life starts.”
Scripture also teaches that the heart is very wicked and deceitful - so much so, it can fool us. That's why it must be guarded. The older I get, the more I understand how much personal discipline it really takes to become a "person after God's own heart."
Not guarding the heart allows it to wander, and it is very easily done - especially in a culture that stimulates the prurient as the driver for purchasing almost anything today. Interesting word – prurient – comes from the Latin meaning “to itch.”
People at work often times are put in situations that can breed “prurient pondering.” Behaviors have changed. The unintended consequences of how people dress, what the joke about, and what they notice sometimes creates an “itch” that we scratch by “pondering.”
Effective leaders think of others before thinking of self (prurient pondering is innately selfish!) This kind of leadership demands a humble heart, which takes effort on our part and that effort is focused on guarding our heart – keeping the pondering in check.
To become better prepared for work, do you spend as much time reading the Word as you do the Harvard Business Review? The former, aimed at filling the heart with God-thoughts, will not only yield more than the latter about the issues of life, but also will make implementing insights from HBR more effective. Their articles can be helpful, but even more so when you see how research lines up so often with Biblical principles.
Are you disciplined for leadership?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Who Owns Your Business? Really...
Proverbs 3:9 (MSG) Honor GOD with everything you own; give him the first and the best.
Honoring God is not a subject with which to trifle; it is an all-or-nothing attitude. This is not only a leadership principal: it is for every one.
God has made it clear that paying lip service to Him, but behaving as if YOU are really God, is dangerous and is the quintessential definition of hypocrisy.
How is God-honoring attitude expressed? One way, for the business owner, is realizing that the innovations for product development, the implementations of manufacturing efficiencies, the impact on the marketplace each have their source in God. This insight could radically change how one views business.
God honoring begins with how we view our origin and destiny. It is expressed in our personal relationships. It sometimes meets a roadblock with business – after all, it is just business. Wrong. In the marketplace, especially, those not in touch with God watch carefully those who claim to be connected to Him. Giving Him the best includes giving the boss the best – not matter how the boss treats you. You work for Him.
If you own the business, there is even a greater opportunity to honor God in the way you respond to employees, customer, vendor and others. This God-honoring thing it not a Sunday thing – it is a life thing.
Do you give Him the best you have to offer – or do you save that for yourself?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Honoring God is not a subject with which to trifle; it is an all-or-nothing attitude. This is not only a leadership principal: it is for every one.
God has made it clear that paying lip service to Him, but behaving as if YOU are really God, is dangerous and is the quintessential definition of hypocrisy.
How is God-honoring attitude expressed? One way, for the business owner, is realizing that the innovations for product development, the implementations of manufacturing efficiencies, the impact on the marketplace each have their source in God. This insight could radically change how one views business.
God honoring begins with how we view our origin and destiny. It is expressed in our personal relationships. It sometimes meets a roadblock with business – after all, it is just business. Wrong. In the marketplace, especially, those not in touch with God watch carefully those who claim to be connected to Him. Giving Him the best includes giving the boss the best – not matter how the boss treats you. You work for Him.
If you own the business, there is even a greater opportunity to honor God in the way you respond to employees, customer, vendor and others. This God-honoring thing it not a Sunday thing – it is a life thing.
Do you give Him the best you have to offer – or do you save that for yourself?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, March 02, 2009
To Lead, You Must Follow
Proverbs 2: 6 (MSG) …God gives out Wisdom free, is plainspoken in Knowledge and Understanding.
The greatest command is to love God with – well, everything. When the object of our love gives us a gift, we normally accept it. The gift is Wisdom and it’s free.
In good or bad economic times, wisdom to make good business decisions should be accepted cherished, and loved. One definition of wisdom is that it is knowledge guided by understanding. The FREE offer is packaged: it comes with plain, straightforward knowledge and understanding. If the definition of understanding includes “knowing things in their right relationship,” this should be an offer that should be hard to refuse. Many leaders do, however. The burning question maybe well be - Why?
Leadership is not a “self” thing. To be a great leader, you first must be a great follower. Jesus tells the story about the shepherd and his sheep and that “….he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he gets them all out, he leads them and they follow…” We sometimes think we are the shepherd – leading. We are the sheep, following.
Who you follow makes a difference. Our natural inclination is to follow our learning, our native ability to analyze, synthesize and capitalize upon the patterns we find in the data. Following God in our business life, seems, somehow, incongruent. Praying about niggling business decisions seems, to many, a waste of God’s time (and ours). It seems that for many of us, that we are more comfortable following our instincts or following the advice of a friend, a consultant, an author or academician. Are you daily taking advantage of the free gift of Wisdom to lead your business, your group, your team and/or your family?
Leader: Are you first a follower?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
The greatest command is to love God with – well, everything. When the object of our love gives us a gift, we normally accept it. The gift is Wisdom and it’s free.
In good or bad economic times, wisdom to make good business decisions should be accepted cherished, and loved. One definition of wisdom is that it is knowledge guided by understanding. The FREE offer is packaged: it comes with plain, straightforward knowledge and understanding. If the definition of understanding includes “knowing things in their right relationship,” this should be an offer that should be hard to refuse. Many leaders do, however. The burning question maybe well be - Why?
Leadership is not a “self” thing. To be a great leader, you first must be a great follower. Jesus tells the story about the shepherd and his sheep and that “….he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he gets them all out, he leads them and they follow…” We sometimes think we are the shepherd – leading. We are the sheep, following.
Who you follow makes a difference. Our natural inclination is to follow our learning, our native ability to analyze, synthesize and capitalize upon the patterns we find in the data. Following God in our business life, seems, somehow, incongruent. Praying about niggling business decisions seems, to many, a waste of God’s time (and ours). It seems that for many of us, that we are more comfortable following our instincts or following the advice of a friend, a consultant, an author or academician. Are you daily taking advantage of the free gift of Wisdom to lead your business, your group, your team and/or your family?
Leader: Are you first a follower?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, February 27, 2009
Leaders and the Power of Friendship
Proverbs 27:17 (NKJV) As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.
People are meant to be interdependent. John Donne reminded us that “no man is an island” and it today’s economy, being connected is important and ultimately healthy to each of us. Conversation helps. Praying together helps more. Find one or two friends with whom you can connect.
But then note: it is iron we are talking about. Not tin. Not soft rock. Strong iron is filed by other iron ores to refine its shape, to sharpen its edge or to shine its surface. A lonely piece of unrefined iron, by itself, does little.
It should never be “lonely at the top” for effective leadership is not a solitary endeavor. The leader must have around friends who provoke the leader to deeper thinking (energizing the intellect) or provide authentic encouragement --both brighten the countenance.
Testing ideas in conversation refines our skills: it is also the penetrating questions of the soul that shapes our spiritual being. The influence is great; therefore, leaders must choose wisely the friends who would brighten their countenance.
Do you have friends that can sharpen you? That you can sharpen?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
________________________________
EMAIL: griff@lindellassociates.net
WEB: Lindell Associates
LinkedIn: Griff
Blogs: On Leadership
On Marketing, Management, Personal Growth
Twitter: PGriffithL
People are meant to be interdependent. John Donne reminded us that “no man is an island” and it today’s economy, being connected is important and ultimately healthy to each of us. Conversation helps. Praying together helps more. Find one or two friends with whom you can connect.
But then note: it is iron we are talking about. Not tin. Not soft rock. Strong iron is filed by other iron ores to refine its shape, to sharpen its edge or to shine its surface. A lonely piece of unrefined iron, by itself, does little.
It should never be “lonely at the top” for effective leadership is not a solitary endeavor. The leader must have around friends who provoke the leader to deeper thinking (energizing the intellect) or provide authentic encouragement --both brighten the countenance.
Testing ideas in conversation refines our skills: it is also the penetrating questions of the soul that shapes our spiritual being. The influence is great; therefore, leaders must choose wisely the friends who would brighten their countenance.
Do you have friends that can sharpen you? That you can sharpen?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
________________________________
EMAIL: griff@lindellassociates.net
WEB: Lindell Associates
LinkedIn: Griff
Blogs: On Leadership
On Marketing, Management, Personal Growth
Twitter: PGriffithL
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Thursday, February 26, 2009
Leaders Answering Fools
Proverbs 26:4-5 (NASB) Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will also be like him. Answer a fool as his folly deserves, that he not be wise in his own eyes.
What appears to be contradictory in these verses is not.
Verse four admonishes us that sometimes it is best not to answer a question whose foundation is foolishness: silence is golden for the question that was not asked not to learn, but only for selfish purposes. Leaders often face foolish questions: a good question in return, aimed at the real crux of the foolish question, is needed. You know – the way Jesus handled the religious elite of that day.
But there is a time to answer the foolishness of this world: and that time is when the truth is at stake. In this instance, to not be ready with an answer might lead the foolish person to swallow their own foolishness and contaminate others, leading them to believe that the fool’s words were unanswerable. Humans causing global warming might be a good example: the science demonstrates that the correlation between sunspot activity and temperature changes. Not humans. Are you prepared with the science - not the politically motivated speculation? (see http://www.icr.org/article/does-carbon-dioxide-drive-global-warming/ )
This is why Believers are admonished to “Work hard so God can approve you. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.”
Are you working hard – armed with Biblical Wisdom and by those who uphold a Christian Worldview?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
What appears to be contradictory in these verses is not.
Verse four admonishes us that sometimes it is best not to answer a question whose foundation is foolishness: silence is golden for the question that was not asked not to learn, but only for selfish purposes. Leaders often face foolish questions: a good question in return, aimed at the real crux of the foolish question, is needed. You know – the way Jesus handled the religious elite of that day.
But there is a time to answer the foolishness of this world: and that time is when the truth is at stake. In this instance, to not be ready with an answer might lead the foolish person to swallow their own foolishness and contaminate others, leading them to believe that the fool’s words were unanswerable. Humans causing global warming might be a good example: the science demonstrates that the correlation between sunspot activity and temperature changes. Not humans. Are you prepared with the science - not the politically motivated speculation? (see http://www.icr.org/article/does-carbon-dioxide-drive-global-warming/ )
This is why Believers are admonished to “Work hard so God can approve you. Be a good worker, one who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly explains the word of truth.”
Are you working hard – armed with Biblical Wisdom and by those who uphold a Christian Worldview?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Leaders Practice Self-control
Proverbs 25:28 (NLT) A person without self-control is like a city with broken-down walls.
A common characteristic of failed leadership is a lack of self-control - a lack manifested in many ways: but most important among them is the blame game.
Taking full responsibility for our actions, learning from mistakes and using what you have been given to its full advantage are “walls” that will protect the leader.
Learn self-control by:
Curbing curiosity – everything is permitted, but not beneficial – explore carefully also evaluating impact
Checking pride and vanity – it’s not about you – it is always about them (customers, staff, whomever!)
Containing anger and revenge – these drain and don’t draw others to you
Confining personal ambition – When yours is palatable, it pushes people away – they will not follow.
Emptying yourself of destructive curiosity, vanity, revenge and ambition creates a void that is crying out to be filled: fill it with the God who created you. He will build strong walls to protect you granting peace and safety to you who have learned to control themselves and give control to their Creator.
Which of those four “Cs” do you need to work on?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
A common characteristic of failed leadership is a lack of self-control - a lack manifested in many ways: but most important among them is the blame game.
Taking full responsibility for our actions, learning from mistakes and using what you have been given to its full advantage are “walls” that will protect the leader.
Learn self-control by:
Curbing curiosity – everything is permitted, but not beneficial – explore carefully also evaluating impact
Checking pride and vanity – it’s not about you – it is always about them (customers, staff, whomever!)
Containing anger and revenge – these drain and don’t draw others to you
Confining personal ambition – When yours is palatable, it pushes people away – they will not follow.
Emptying yourself of destructive curiosity, vanity, revenge and ambition creates a void that is crying out to be filled: fill it with the God who created you. He will build strong walls to protect you granting peace and safety to you who have learned to control themselves and give control to their Creator.
Which of those four “Cs” do you need to work on?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Leaders Can Debate Without Debasing
Proverbs 24:7 (MSG) Wise conversation is way over the head of fools; in a serious discussion they haven't a clue.
Life is a spiritual battle: the world tries to make it material. The economic condition of 2009 is a good example of spiritual battles being fought by powers and forces of the unseen. Now, imagine positing this at your next cocktail party. Not working for you, right?
The Sarbanes-Oxley environment over the last several years has produced much talking, little wise conversation. The world just does not "get it." As one public executive told me, "The Ten Commandants haven't worked; why should we think our rules will work?" He missed the spiritual element.
A discussion of ethics without a discussion of morality and truth is useless, yet it happens often. The content of many texts assume ethics is an emergent attribute of evolved human behavior.
Recognizing the spiritual forces in play, a wise leader’s conversation is more about parables than pontification; it’s peppered with interesting questions rather than interrupting sarcasm; and although it is simple, it is not simplistic.
Sensitive to the spiritual void, a wise leader can approach an issue without being antagonistic to the person.
You know, like Jesus did.
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Life is a spiritual battle: the world tries to make it material. The economic condition of 2009 is a good example of spiritual battles being fought by powers and forces of the unseen. Now, imagine positing this at your next cocktail party. Not working for you, right?
The Sarbanes-Oxley environment over the last several years has produced much talking, little wise conversation. The world just does not "get it." As one public executive told me, "The Ten Commandants haven't worked; why should we think our rules will work?" He missed the spiritual element.
A discussion of ethics without a discussion of morality and truth is useless, yet it happens often. The content of many texts assume ethics is an emergent attribute of evolved human behavior.
Recognizing the spiritual forces in play, a wise leader’s conversation is more about parables than pontification; it’s peppered with interesting questions rather than interrupting sarcasm; and although it is simple, it is not simplistic.
Sensitive to the spiritual void, a wise leader can approach an issue without being antagonistic to the person.
You know, like Jesus did.
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, February 23, 2009
Leaders Look Ahead
Proverbs 23:18 (NIV) There is surely a future hope for you, and your hope will not be cut off.
Life happens. The financial, social and spiritual problems of the present may be huge.
Leadership is the art of bringing a proper perspective into play – vision casting, clarity of mission and inspiring hope. For the Christian Leader, understanding the source of hope and the practical expressions of hope demands an understanding of Sovereign context – it’s the difference between knowing about God and knowing God.
This business leader understands that the eternal impact of her/his business life has little to do with an all-consuming focus on market share and keeping a business afloat. The impact has more to do with the relationships he/she builds into employees, suppliers, competitors and customers – relationships that reflect his personal hope in a God who remains faithful to those that love Him and are called according to His purpose.
My personal question: Am I positioned to allow God to use my life as an expression of hope in the middle this global economic downturn?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Life happens. The financial, social and spiritual problems of the present may be huge.
Leadership is the art of bringing a proper perspective into play – vision casting, clarity of mission and inspiring hope. For the Christian Leader, understanding the source of hope and the practical expressions of hope demands an understanding of Sovereign context – it’s the difference between knowing about God and knowing God.
This business leader understands that the eternal impact of her/his business life has little to do with an all-consuming focus on market share and keeping a business afloat. The impact has more to do with the relationships he/she builds into employees, suppliers, competitors and customers – relationships that reflect his personal hope in a God who remains faithful to those that love Him and are called according to His purpose.
My personal question: Am I positioned to allow God to use my life as an expression of hope in the middle this global economic downturn?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, February 20, 2009
Leadership Worldview
Proverbs 20:12 (AMP) The hearing ear and the seeing eye--the Lord has made both of them.
Some truths are self-evident: our Declaration of Independence reflects this philosophy, as does this verse.
However, the increasing secularization of society has given us a humanistic worldview that eliminates the need for personal responsibility other than that which is demanded by current society mores. The belief that random matter gave rise to not only our physical self, but also our “knowing” self means that our thoughts, our emotions and our ability to make choices evolved; but that idea has no grounding in reality of what humans know as “self evident.”
Time does not result in complexity: rather it results in chaos. Organizations, left to themselves, deteriorate. It is evident that humans seek leadership.
Are you a leader seeking grounding from a relativistic, changing world or are you grounded in the reality of a Creator who made your eyes and ears?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell. Cartoon Copyright Gospel Communications International, Inc - www.reverendfun.com
Some truths are self-evident: our Declaration of Independence reflects this philosophy, as does this verse.
However, the increasing secularization of society has given us a humanistic worldview that eliminates the need for personal responsibility other than that which is demanded by current society mores. The belief that random matter gave rise to not only our physical self, but also our “knowing” self means that our thoughts, our emotions and our ability to make choices evolved; but that idea has no grounding in reality of what humans know as “self evident.”
Time does not result in complexity: rather it results in chaos. Organizations, left to themselves, deteriorate. It is evident that humans seek leadership.
Are you a leader seeking grounding from a relativistic, changing world or are you grounded in the reality of a Creator who made your eyes and ears?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell. Cartoon Copyright Gospel Communications International, Inc - www.reverendfun.com
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Thursday, February 19, 2009
Leaders Learn to Live Untouched by Trouble
Proverbs 19:23 (NIV) - The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble.
The world, in 2009, seems to be crumbling around us. Distrust in financial institutions, business and political leaders abound. Uncertainty about property values, food prices, and jobs rules the day.
Disappointment, discouragement and despair can dog a leader – or any person. It is the discipline of the will that does not let our personal disappointments wash over others. That discipline, for the Believer, has a solid core, driven deep into the bedrock of faith.
Fearing God is not a trivial thing, or easily grasped and even held on to. It is the opposite of self-reliance and yet, paradoxically, the more we rely on Him, the more confident we appear to others. "Untouched by trouble" is not about the circumstances that swirl around us: it is about our attitude, born of faith, about God remaining sovereign no matter what's happening.
God-confidence vs. self-confidence – one is driven by faith, the other by sight.
Got real, alive, vibrant faith? That’s where contentment lives – no matter the circumstances.
[Gratitude is an attitude - see http://www.wisebread.com/spiritual-insights-from-a-rich-idiot ]
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
The world, in 2009, seems to be crumbling around us. Distrust in financial institutions, business and political leaders abound. Uncertainty about property values, food prices, and jobs rules the day.
Disappointment, discouragement and despair can dog a leader – or any person. It is the discipline of the will that does not let our personal disappointments wash over others. That discipline, for the Believer, has a solid core, driven deep into the bedrock of faith.
Fearing God is not a trivial thing, or easily grasped and even held on to. It is the opposite of self-reliance and yet, paradoxically, the more we rely on Him, the more confident we appear to others. "Untouched by trouble" is not about the circumstances that swirl around us: it is about our attitude, born of faith, about God remaining sovereign no matter what's happening.
God-confidence vs. self-confidence – one is driven by faith, the other by sight.
Got real, alive, vibrant faith? That’s where contentment lives – no matter the circumstances.
[Gratitude is an attitude - see http://www.wisebread.com/spiritual-insights-from-a-rich-idiot ]
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Lead With a Smile
Proverbs 17:22 (MSG) A cheerful disposition is good for your health; gloom and doom leave you bone-tired.
Health professionals have long recognized this truth; but it is even now permeating the business community.
According to author Susan Heathfield, writing on employee motivation, leaders should: “Start the day by showing a positive, cheerful attitude (Your arrival at work sets the employee motivation tone for the day.)”
Good medicine for you: good medicine for your business. The leader lays the foundation for the culture. Your smile and disposition not only helps you, but also others.
Are you smiling?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Health professionals have long recognized this truth; but it is even now permeating the business community.
According to author Susan Heathfield, writing on employee motivation, leaders should: “Start the day by showing a positive, cheerful attitude (Your arrival at work sets the employee motivation tone for the day.)”
Good medicine for you: good medicine for your business. The leader lays the foundation for the culture. Your smile and disposition not only helps you, but also others.
Are you smiling?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, February 13, 2009
Collaborate: Lesson from the “Stimulus” Bill
Proverbs 13:10 (MSG) Arrogant know-it-alls stir up discord, but wise men and women listen to each other's counsel.
Caught-up in their hubris, ideology drove a Bill to completion without real input from those with legitimate and different views. Despite protestations to the contrary by the President, the facts (and the rhetoric of the Speaker) tell a different story. More discord will result. Less collaboration will rule the day. Not the kind of change wanted.
As Jim Collins, author of Good to Great discovered, leaders who successfully manage change are not only humble, but also have learned to collaborate.
These business times demand honest collaboration, looking at potential results of each position and that position’s ability to meet real needs. This is not time for arrogance. This is the time to “listen to each other’s counsel.” To learn and grow.
Do you collaborate? Even with the contrarian?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Caught-up in their hubris, ideology drove a Bill to completion without real input from those with legitimate and different views. Despite protestations to the contrary by the President, the facts (and the rhetoric of the Speaker) tell a different story. More discord will result. Less collaboration will rule the day. Not the kind of change wanted.
As Jim Collins, author of Good to Great discovered, leaders who successfully manage change are not only humble, but also have learned to collaborate.
These business times demand honest collaboration, looking at potential results of each position and that position’s ability to meet real needs. This is not time for arrogance. This is the time to “listen to each other’s counsel.” To learn and grow.
Do you collaborate? Even with the contrarian?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, February 12, 2009
Leadership Discipline
Proverbs 12: 1 (AMP) Whoever loves instruction and correction loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is like a brute beast, stupid and indiscriminating.
To put this verse more simply – “to learn, you must have discipline (NLT).” To grow personally or to lead a business, a non-profit, your family, the team – whatever you might lead - the discipline to learn from the results you produce yields the knowledge needed to be an effective leader.
Discipline is the result of the willingness to ask the questions about results produced that produce instruction or, if needed, correction - the discipline to listen and learn. I’m reminded of what M. Scott Peck said in his book The Road Less Traveled, “without discipline we can solve nothing.”
Some organizations just love strategy formulation - big plans and wonderful Power Point® presentations: but it is the discipline that comes from strategy implementation where the rubber meets the road. Leaders learn that every action taken is a learning experience: they see it as producing a result- not as success or failure, per se.
Learn from the results you produce - that’s the attitude of loving discipline. If you don’t like the results, change what you are doing – don’t be a “brute beast, stupid and indiscriminating.”
Are you a leader who is willing to learn, change where needed and grow?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
To put this verse more simply – “to learn, you must have discipline (NLT).” To grow personally or to lead a business, a non-profit, your family, the team – whatever you might lead - the discipline to learn from the results you produce yields the knowledge needed to be an effective leader.
Discipline is the result of the willingness to ask the questions about results produced that produce instruction or, if needed, correction - the discipline to listen and learn. I’m reminded of what M. Scott Peck said in his book The Road Less Traveled, “without discipline we can solve nothing.”
Some organizations just love strategy formulation - big plans and wonderful Power Point® presentations: but it is the discipline that comes from strategy implementation where the rubber meets the road. Leaders learn that every action taken is a learning experience: they see it as producing a result- not as success or failure, per se.
Learn from the results you produce - that’s the attitude of loving discipline. If you don’t like the results, change what you are doing – don’t be a “brute beast, stupid and indiscriminating.”
Are you a leader who is willing to learn, change where needed and grow?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Wednesday, February 11, 2009
You Got To Have Heart
Proverbs 11:2 (NIV) When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.
In John Kotter & James Heskett’s book, Corporate Culture and Performance, they explored how the “culture” of a corporation influences performance. They found that strong leaders “do not tolerate arrogance in others. They remind people often of who they must serve….They keep their own egos under control. They make room for other egos.”
Whether large or small business, arrogance, inward focus and encumbering bureaucracy are all features of a company in disgrace – unable to adapt to change. Adaptability in today’s economy is vital.
Scripture says that hidden in humility is wisdom: the last sentence of Kotter & Heskett’s’ book says, “…if leaders do not have the hearts of servants, there is only the potential for tyranny.” There it is again: As I have posited in other blogs, positive, productive leadership begins in the heart.
Got the heart to be a leader?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
In John Kotter & James Heskett’s book, Corporate Culture and Performance, they explored how the “culture” of a corporation influences performance. They found that strong leaders “do not tolerate arrogance in others. They remind people often of who they must serve….They keep their own egos under control. They make room for other egos.”
Whether large or small business, arrogance, inward focus and encumbering bureaucracy are all features of a company in disgrace – unable to adapt to change. Adaptability in today’s economy is vital.
Scripture says that hidden in humility is wisdom: the last sentence of Kotter & Heskett’s’ book says, “…if leaders do not have the hearts of servants, there is only the potential for tyranny.” There it is again: As I have posited in other blogs, positive, productive leadership begins in the heart.
Got the heart to be a leader?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Understanding Personal Values Systems
Proverbs 10: 4 (AMP) He becomes poor who works with a slack and idle hand, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.
If you follow the behavioral science that looks at what drives people, this verse applies to those who prefer the "Supporting-Giving® window to the world." This type believes that hard work is what will get them ahead, and they are correct.
Others prefer to be driven by diligently capturing opportunity and that will "make one rich." Some think the way to move ahead is to collect and analyze data and understand the trends that the data may show. Others feel that adapting built on the value of harmony is the key to success.
Each value system produces a positive result. How can that be? The value drivers may be different; being diligent to capitalize on our drivers, to moderate their use and to supplement when needed is the key to personal success. God has wired you a certain way and he expects each of us to learn how we are wired and use it for His glory – the turn coin of the riches realm.
Do you know what value system drives you?
For more on diversity of value systems, see: http://www.grifflindell.blogspot.com/
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
If you follow the behavioral science that looks at what drives people, this verse applies to those who prefer the "Supporting-Giving® window to the world." This type believes that hard work is what will get them ahead, and they are correct.
Others prefer to be driven by diligently capturing opportunity and that will "make one rich." Some think the way to move ahead is to collect and analyze data and understand the trends that the data may show. Others feel that adapting built on the value of harmony is the key to success.
Each value system produces a positive result. How can that be? The value drivers may be different; being diligent to capitalize on our drivers, to moderate their use and to supplement when needed is the key to personal success. God has wired you a certain way and he expects each of us to learn how we are wired and use it for His glory – the turn coin of the riches realm.
Do you know what value system drives you?
For more on diversity of value systems, see: http://www.grifflindell.blogspot.com/
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, February 09, 2009
Christian Business Owners Are Clear About Ownership
Proverbs 9:6; (NIV) Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of understanding.
How well do you and I really understand that “the chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever” (Westminster Catechism)? Enjoying God while the economy is hurting? While your business is adjusting? In the midst of weak sales, less and less customers? YES! One way of “walking in the way of understanding” is to get who owns your business. As one writer posited, "...the goal of a business is not profit. It is stewardship. Profit results from good stewardship."
I like that for it says to me that even the business is something that is not "mine.” It is His and how I run it should reflect the owner: How I treat my staff; How I nurture customers with exceptional customer service; How I deal with the bank in integrity; my face to the public. All should reflect my “understanding.”
Even for a CEO of a public company - the business is "owned" by shareholders and the CEO is responsible for being a steward of the assets of that company. Those assets are not for him/her. Someone else is always the owner!
Who owns you and your business?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
How well do you and I really understand that “the chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy him forever” (Westminster Catechism)? Enjoying God while the economy is hurting? While your business is adjusting? In the midst of weak sales, less and less customers? YES! One way of “walking in the way of understanding” is to get who owns your business. As one writer posited, "...the goal of a business is not profit. It is stewardship. Profit results from good stewardship."
I like that for it says to me that even the business is something that is not "mine.” It is His and how I run it should reflect the owner: How I treat my staff; How I nurture customers with exceptional customer service; How I deal with the bank in integrity; my face to the public. All should reflect my “understanding.”
Even for a CEO of a public company - the business is "owned" by shareholders and the CEO is responsible for being a steward of the assets of that company. Those assets are not for him/her. Someone else is always the owner!
Who owns you and your business?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, February 06, 2009
Leaders Value Others in a Down Economy
Proverbs 6:16a (AMP) These six things the Lord hates, indeed, seven are an abomination to Him: [#1] A proud look [the spirit that makes one overestimate himself and underestimate others]…
Bill George, in his book, Authentic Leadership: Rediscovering the Secrets to Creating Lasting Value, proclaims: “… that leadership begins and ends with authenticity…(it’s) being the person you were created to be.”
He then points out that truly understanding self takes some risk and humility – learning to be open to others. Sometimes that may mean simple actions in a down economy – like keeping everyone working with less pay or less hours - everyone sharing in the business status. Thinking about the needs of others does take effort – including thinking about solution implications.
“As a person thinks in his heart so is he.” What are you thinking about?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Bill George, in his book, Authentic Leadership: Rediscovering the Secrets to Creating Lasting Value, proclaims: “… that leadership begins and ends with authenticity…(it’s) being the person you were created to be.”
He then points out that truly understanding self takes some risk and humility – learning to be open to others. Sometimes that may mean simple actions in a down economy – like keeping everyone working with less pay or less hours - everyone sharing in the business status. Thinking about the needs of others does take effort – including thinking about solution implications.
“As a person thinks in his heart so is he.” What are you thinking about?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, February 05, 2009
Leading With “With The Lights Always On”
Proverbs 5:21 (MSG) Mark well that GOD doesn't miss a move you make; he's aware of every step you take.
What leaders do and what they fail to do define their integrity.
Recently, we have seen the supposed grayness of integrity as it applies to some candidates for positions in the new administration in Washington, D.C. Different standards seems to exist for some who supposedly have “something to offer” and therefore “get a pass” on what could cause you and me a problem, not a pass.
In Portland, OR, a mayor who lied about a sexual liaison with an adolescent still is mayor, having not resigned. His rationale? He admitted his “mistake” and asked for forgiveness, and he is “best” suited at helping the city in its current financial crises – i.e. his lack of truthfulness had no real consequence except for some embarrassment – and the end justified the means.
Leading with integrity results from behaving “in the dark” as if lights are on all the time. Integrity is about completeness. No division between the light of day and the dark of night.
Are you leading with the lights on – all the time?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
What leaders do and what they fail to do define their integrity.
Recently, we have seen the supposed grayness of integrity as it applies to some candidates for positions in the new administration in Washington, D.C. Different standards seems to exist for some who supposedly have “something to offer” and therefore “get a pass” on what could cause you and me a problem, not a pass.
In Portland, OR, a mayor who lied about a sexual liaison with an adolescent still is mayor, having not resigned. His rationale? He admitted his “mistake” and asked for forgiveness, and he is “best” suited at helping the city in its current financial crises – i.e. his lack of truthfulness had no real consequence except for some embarrassment – and the end justified the means.
Leading with integrity results from behaving “in the dark” as if lights are on all the time. Integrity is about completeness. No division between the light of day and the dark of night.
Are you leading with the lights on – all the time?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Leaders Understand the Impact of the Starting Point
Proverbs 4:7 (NLT) The beginning of wisdom is: Get wisdom! And with all you have gotten, get understanding. {AMP = discernment, comprehension, and interpretation.}
For business success - or life success – having a clear understanding of beginnings is vital. In this tough economy, attitude drives business decisions. Understanding “beginnings” is the foundation of all your thinking.
Solidifying your comprehensive worldview (answering questions like these - Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where are we going?) will define where you look for wisdom and how your are (your attitude toward others, yourself and life) at business.
Believing leaders understand that the source of Wisdom for all of life (yes, business life too) comes from God who created us and provides a clear path of communication with Him.
The “external wisdom,” whose beginning is matter, or sensory data or “whatever,” is often packaged to look like "spiritual" wisdom. Good packaging. Bad product.
Either God is God of all (including all of wisdom and your work life), or he is not God at all. There’s a starting point that changes everything.
Are you getting your wisdom from the eternal or external?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
For business success - or life success – having a clear understanding of beginnings is vital. In this tough economy, attitude drives business decisions. Understanding “beginnings” is the foundation of all your thinking.
Solidifying your comprehensive worldview (answering questions like these - Where did we come from? Why are we here? Where are we going?) will define where you look for wisdom and how your are (your attitude toward others, yourself and life) at business.
Believing leaders understand that the source of Wisdom for all of life (yes, business life too) comes from God who created us and provides a clear path of communication with Him.
The “external wisdom,” whose beginning is matter, or sensory data or “whatever,” is often packaged to look like "spiritual" wisdom. Good packaging. Bad product.
Either God is God of all (including all of wisdom and your work life), or he is not God at all. There’s a starting point that changes everything.
Are you getting your wisdom from the eternal or external?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Intentionality of Leadership
Proverbs 3:5-6 (MSG) Trust God from the bottom of your heart; don't try to figure out everything on your own. Listen for God's voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; he's the one who will keep you on track.
The measure of a Christian leader is how well that leader weaves his/her faith into the fabric of living both at home and at work.
Listening to God’s voice in everything we do takes intentionality, discipline and a determination to be humble, even in business problem-solving. We are often too caught up in the myth of Hollywood that we are autonomous, independent leaders and find ourselves just responding and reacting, that we forget about relying.
This verse is devoid of meaning if we relegate God to Sunday and forget Him Monday to Saturday. In the world of advertising/marketing finding a 7-day committed Believer is a breath of fresh air and one such man is Ray Brown, founder of DRB Partners. (http://www.drbpartners.com/) On his desk is a little plaque with verse 5 applied to it- a reminder to him and others that his faith means something to him and how he runs his business - intentionality, discipline and determination in action.
Who do you trust and listen to: myth makers or your Maker?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
The measure of a Christian leader is how well that leader weaves his/her faith into the fabric of living both at home and at work.
Listening to God’s voice in everything we do takes intentionality, discipline and a determination to be humble, even in business problem-solving. We are often too caught up in the myth of Hollywood that we are autonomous, independent leaders and find ourselves just responding and reacting, that we forget about relying.
This verse is devoid of meaning if we relegate God to Sunday and forget Him Monday to Saturday. In the world of advertising/marketing finding a 7-day committed Believer is a breath of fresh air and one such man is Ray Brown, founder of DRB Partners. (http://www.drbpartners.com/) On his desk is a little plaque with verse 5 applied to it- a reminder to him and others that his faith means something to him and how he runs his business - intentionality, discipline and determination in action.
Who do you trust and listen to: myth makers or your Maker?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, February 02, 2009
Leaders Are Willing To Be Changed
Proverbs 2:2 (NLV) …make your ear open to wisdom. Turn your heart to understanding.
There are two commands in this verse – make open and turn - that's all about the will. William Penn, in 1699 wrote, “No man is fit to command another that can not command himself.”
Will to open. Will to turn. Open to wisdom from others and from your Creator. The leadership stories in both Old and New Testaments provide foundational understanding of leading. Just knowing about them is not enough. We must turn our heart (including our head, hands and habits) – ah, there’s the rub!
What is naturally in us is all about us: what is supernaturally assimilated in us changes our focus to others. That’s the key to “servant leadership.” If you want to influence others, first allow yourself to be changed – the head and the heart internally, the hands and the habits externally.
Are you willing to be changed so you can lead like Jesus?
Coopyrigth (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
There are two commands in this verse – make open and turn - that's all about the will. William Penn, in 1699 wrote, “No man is fit to command another that can not command himself.”
Will to open. Will to turn. Open to wisdom from others and from your Creator. The leadership stories in both Old and New Testaments provide foundational understanding of leading. Just knowing about them is not enough. We must turn our heart (including our head, hands and habits) – ah, there’s the rub!
What is naturally in us is all about us: what is supernaturally assimilated in us changes our focus to others. That’s the key to “servant leadership.” If you want to influence others, first allow yourself to be changed – the head and the heart internally, the hands and the habits externally.
Are you willing to be changed so you can lead like Jesus?
Coopyrigth (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, January 30, 2009
Simply Irresistible Leadership
Proverbs 30:5-6 (NLV) Every word of God has been proven true (pure). He is a safe covering to those who trust in Him. Do not add to His words, or He will speak strong words to you and prove you to be a liar.
Christians in the business world: Do we really believe this?
Our culture demands "tolerance" for behaviors that God called sin: tolerance for life-styles that do not please Him; tolerance for visual stimulation in music videos and movies that only appeal to our prurient natures; tolerance to accept many ways to God when Scripture is consistently clear about “the way.”
To be really Christ-followers in our current culture and this tough business environment takes faith that He is our refuge, our shield, and our protector. Is the “joy of the Lord” our strength? Really?
Our business and personal core values must be clear, consistent and courageous: our personal values must remain contagious, irresistible and inviting. Our life at work (well, everywhere) has meaning.
Is your life at work attractive and pure?
Copyright ©2009 P. Griffith Lindell
Christians in the business world: Do we really believe this?
Our culture demands "tolerance" for behaviors that God called sin: tolerance for life-styles that do not please Him; tolerance for visual stimulation in music videos and movies that only appeal to our prurient natures; tolerance to accept many ways to God when Scripture is consistently clear about “the way.”
To be really Christ-followers in our current culture and this tough business environment takes faith that He is our refuge, our shield, and our protector. Is the “joy of the Lord” our strength? Really?
Our business and personal core values must be clear, consistent and courageous: our personal values must remain contagious, irresistible and inviting. Our life at work (well, everywhere) has meaning.
Is your life at work attractive and pure?
Copyright ©2009 P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, January 29, 2009
Gossip: Deadly to Leaders
Proverbs 29:12 (MSG) When a leader listens to malicious gossip, all the workers get infected with evil.
Ron Heifetz, co-founder of Harvard’s Center for Public Leadership, is quoted as saying, “Purposeful honesty and appropriate transparency at all levels are eventual indicators of your organization’s adaptability and ability to thrive.”
What leaders listen to – i.e. honor - matters. One of your team want to share a juicy morsel? Stop them before they blurt out more. If lies, gossip, spurious chatter of any sort is tolerated at the top (of any size “heap”), that lack of judgment drives the true organizational values of the organization.
Honesty and transparency go hand-in-glove with discernment.
You want your leadership to be meaningful in the workplace? Your core values real? One way you make your faith real at work is to be known discerning leader who won't participate in any form of gossip.
Copyright (c) 2009, by P. Griffith Lindell
Ron Heifetz, co-founder of Harvard’s Center for Public Leadership, is quoted as saying, “Purposeful honesty and appropriate transparency at all levels are eventual indicators of your organization’s adaptability and ability to thrive.”
What leaders listen to – i.e. honor - matters. One of your team want to share a juicy morsel? Stop them before they blurt out more. If lies, gossip, spurious chatter of any sort is tolerated at the top (of any size “heap”), that lack of judgment drives the true organizational values of the organization.
Honesty and transparency go hand-in-glove with discernment.
You want your leadership to be meaningful in the workplace? Your core values real? One way you make your faith real at work is to be known discerning leader who won't participate in any form of gossip.
Copyright (c) 2009, by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, January 26, 2009
Clear Water Leadership
Proverbs 25:26 (AMP) Like a muddied fountain and a polluted spring is a righteous man who yields, falls down, and compromises his integrity before the wicked.
The “secular-progressive” movement is dominating American thought in movies, television, so-called news coverage and business. The educated opinion makers are increasingly marginalizing a Christian worldview. What’s a Christian leader to do – especially in the workplace?
Lead - Lead like Moses, Joshua, Joseph. Lead like Jesus. Keep on continually standing firm in the battle for the American mind. You can because the battle has been won. We know the victor. We know the outcome.
As a “Christian Business Leader” your faith has a place in the workplace. If you abdicate it, the “secular faith” will swiftly fill the void.
The question is: are you a muddied fountain, a polluted spring or are you clear, life-giving water? The world is thirsty: are you a place to quench their thirst?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
The “secular-progressive” movement is dominating American thought in movies, television, so-called news coverage and business. The educated opinion makers are increasingly marginalizing a Christian worldview. What’s a Christian leader to do – especially in the workplace?
Lead - Lead like Moses, Joshua, Joseph. Lead like Jesus. Keep on continually standing firm in the battle for the American mind. You can because the battle has been won. We know the victor. We know the outcome.
As a “Christian Business Leader” your faith has a place in the workplace. If you abdicate it, the “secular faith” will swiftly fill the void.
The question is: are you a muddied fountain, a polluted spring or are you clear, life-giving water? The world is thirsty: are you a place to quench their thirst?
Copyright © 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, January 22, 2009
Leaders Focus on “Building” Others: Not Wealth
Proverbs 23:4 (NASB) Do not weary yourself to gain wealth, cease from your consideration of it.
Motives are everything – especially for the small businessperson in these economic times.
In his book, Principle Centered Leadership, S. Covey derides our culture’s fixation on wealth - especially wealth without work. He notes a correlation between one’s movement away from the laws of nature and the degree to which one’s judgment is adversely affected.
The law of nature (God’s truth) is this: if it's only money that leaders are after, they'll self-destruct in no time.
Lust for money brings trouble and nothing but trouble. Going down that path, some lose their footing in the faith completely and live to regret it bitterly ever after. [1Tim.6: 9]
Believing leaders beware: the heart is desperately wicked. Focus on your heart and the needs of others -like customers, employees, vendors, etc. Allow profits and wealth to be the consequence of good management and your dependence on the Lord.
Dependence on self = disaster. Dependence on God = blessing.
Who are you depending on?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Motives are everything – especially for the small businessperson in these economic times.
In his book, Principle Centered Leadership, S. Covey derides our culture’s fixation on wealth - especially wealth without work. He notes a correlation between one’s movement away from the laws of nature and the degree to which one’s judgment is adversely affected.
The law of nature (God’s truth) is this: if it's only money that leaders are after, they'll self-destruct in no time.
Lust for money brings trouble and nothing but trouble. Going down that path, some lose their footing in the faith completely and live to regret it bitterly ever after. [1Tim.6: 9]
Believing leaders beware: the heart is desperately wicked. Focus on your heart and the needs of others -like customers, employees, vendors, etc. Allow profits and wealth to be the consequence of good management and your dependence on the Lord.
Dependence on self = disaster. Dependence on God = blessing.
Who are you depending on?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Motivation and Leadership
Proverbs 21:4 (MSG) Arrogance and pride—distinguishing marks in the wicked—are just plain sin.
Why we do what we do says more about the hidden nature of our character than what we do – how we behave.
Arrogant leadership, its motivations hidden from public view, is self-centered and limiting. In Success Built to Last, the authors suggest that leadership that succeeds over time is attributable to the strength of the cause they pursue: "Enduringly successful people serve the cause--and they are lifted up by its power."
Here is a cause to consider: Find and control the motivations that are just about you. Feed and nurture the motivations that are about helping and building-up others.
Do you spend time "looking in" and "cleaning up"so you can better look out for others?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Why we do what we do says more about the hidden nature of our character than what we do – how we behave.
Arrogant leadership, its motivations hidden from public view, is self-centered and limiting. In Success Built to Last, the authors suggest that leadership that succeeds over time is attributable to the strength of the cause they pursue: "Enduringly successful people serve the cause--and they are lifted up by its power."
Here is a cause to consider: Find and control the motivations that are just about you. Feed and nurture the motivations that are about helping and building-up others.
Do you spend time "looking in" and "cleaning up"so you can better look out for others?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, January 20, 2009
The Inauguration and Humble Leadership
Proverbs 20: 27 (AMP) The spirit of man [that factor in human personality which proceeds immediately from God] is the lamp of the Lord, searching all his innermost parts.
Christians should have a natural advantage as business leaders. After all, we have “put off the old” and now have “the mind of Christ” who is to be ruling in our lives, right?
But this kind of humility is hard work for the driven and successful. We are so used to using our analytical skills, solving problems on the fly and driving action.
It is very easy to forget that we are stewards of those gifts of leadership, and we are called to manage ALL that God has given us for His glory. A lamp, whose light source is self, is a darkened light.
It’s all about His light. Not ours. What does your lamp reveal?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Christians should have a natural advantage as business leaders. After all, we have “put off the old” and now have “the mind of Christ” who is to be ruling in our lives, right?
But this kind of humility is hard work for the driven and successful. We are so used to using our analytical skills, solving problems on the fly and driving action.
It is very easy to forget that we are stewards of those gifts of leadership, and we are called to manage ALL that God has given us for His glory. A lamp, whose light source is self, is a darkened light.
It’s all about His light. Not ours. What does your lamp reveal?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, January 19, 2009
The Generosity of Leaders
Proverbs 19:17 (MSG) Mercy to the needy is a loan to God, and God pays back those loans in full.
In his article The Cultivation of Transcendent Leadership, Jamie S. Walters posits that generosity is the first of the six principles of “transcendent leadership.”
As he points out, “Generosity of spirit…fosters collaboration, creativity, idea-sharing, knowledge-sharing, camaraderie, trust, satisfaction, and constructive communication.”
Mercy to the needy is not only financial help (which is important in its own right) but also is expressed, in the work environment, in the sharing of information, delegating both authority and responsibility and/or providing necessary feedback.
Mercy is a quality from the heart.
Do you have the heart to lead?
Copyright 2009 © by P. Griffith Lindell
In his article The Cultivation of Transcendent Leadership, Jamie S. Walters posits that generosity is the first of the six principles of “transcendent leadership.”
As he points out, “Generosity of spirit…fosters collaboration, creativity, idea-sharing, knowledge-sharing, camaraderie, trust, satisfaction, and constructive communication.”
Mercy to the needy is not only financial help (which is important in its own right) but also is expressed, in the work environment, in the sharing of information, delegating both authority and responsibility and/or providing necessary feedback.
Mercy is a quality from the heart.
Do you have the heart to lead?
Copyright 2009 © by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Embrace Trials
Proverbs 13:15 (NIV) Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard (the unfaithful does not endure).
For people of faith, God’s providence must be the foundation of our value system. That core sustains our belief that God cares and is dynamically in charge of all of life, especially our trials.
Christian business leaders understand that God cares far less about the business, than he does about the person.
It is our belief system – our faith in operation – that is of interest to Him; for, “without faith it is impossible to please God.” How you endure (respond to, react to) business setbacks, failures, and persistent problems not only wins favor with those watching you (Your attitude answering the question, “Is the Christian stuff for real?”), but it also is of interest to God who is working in our lives to conform us to the image of His Son.
Are you embracing God’s work or expressing unbelief by questioning it?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
For people of faith, God’s providence must be the foundation of our value system. That core sustains our belief that God cares and is dynamically in charge of all of life, especially our trials.
Christian business leaders understand that God cares far less about the business, than he does about the person.
It is our belief system – our faith in operation – that is of interest to Him; for, “without faith it is impossible to please God.” How you endure (respond to, react to) business setbacks, failures, and persistent problems not only wins favor with those watching you (Your attitude answering the question, “Is the Christian stuff for real?”), but it also is of interest to God who is working in our lives to conform us to the image of His Son.
Are you embracing God’s work or expressing unbelief by questioning it?
Copyright (c) 2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, January 12, 2009
Leader’s Words Inspire Others for Change
Proverbs 12:18 (MSG) Rash language cuts and maims, but there is healing in the words of the wise.
In his book, Leadership Without Easy Answers, Harvard professor Ronald Heifetz posits that the role of leadership is changing: the new role is “to help people face reality and to mobilized them to make change.”
Change has been a hot topic recently and change is at least painful and at worst potentially destructive. Positive change in our relationships takes intentionality. The wise leader recognizes the various impacts of change on the team and speaks words that heal by creating value and meaning for each person experiencing the change.
Are you leading with words that heal or maim?
Copyright ©2009 P. Griffith Lindell
In his book, Leadership Without Easy Answers, Harvard professor Ronald Heifetz posits that the role of leadership is changing: the new role is “to help people face reality and to mobilized them to make change.”
Change has been a hot topic recently and change is at least painful and at worst potentially destructive. Positive change in our relationships takes intentionality. The wise leader recognizes the various impacts of change on the team and speaks words that heal by creating value and meaning for each person experiencing the change.
Are you leading with words that heal or maim?
Copyright ©2009 P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, January 09, 2009
Leadership that Shapes Culture
Proverbs 9:10 (AMP) The reverent and worshipful fear of the Lord is the beginning (the chief and choice part) of Wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight and understanding.
Today’s culture demands that my thinking from this verse is a personal, subjective value but has nothing to do with objective reality - including how you lead and manage. The thinking goes something like this: it may be OK for you but certainly not for everybody else.
However, if the Incarnation and Resurrection are historical facts, (and I believe they are!) then the dichotomy that defines our culture is false. Have you bought into the view that “values” are the domain of personal and private issues, and that science, math etc. are the domain of only objective reality?
To believe both is a contradiction. God-fearing leaders hold that the Creation, Incarnation and Resurrection are objective Truth that speaks to our purpose, defines our business ethics and therefore shapes how we work, live and lead. Christian leaders must begin to shape our culture – not succumb to it.
Christianity offers a “unified, integrated truth” whose source is Wisdom.
Who are you going to believe: Our culture or our Creator?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Today’s culture demands that my thinking from this verse is a personal, subjective value but has nothing to do with objective reality - including how you lead and manage. The thinking goes something like this: it may be OK for you but certainly not for everybody else.
However, if the Incarnation and Resurrection are historical facts, (and I believe they are!) then the dichotomy that defines our culture is false. Have you bought into the view that “values” are the domain of personal and private issues, and that science, math etc. are the domain of only objective reality?
To believe both is a contradiction. God-fearing leaders hold that the Creation, Incarnation and Resurrection are objective Truth that speaks to our purpose, defines our business ethics and therefore shapes how we work, live and lead. Christian leaders must begin to shape our culture – not succumb to it.
Christianity offers a “unified, integrated truth” whose source is Wisdom.
Who are you going to believe: Our culture or our Creator?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, January 08, 2009
What Leaders Focus Upon Matters
Proverbs 8:9-10 (MSG) [Wisdom speaking] Prefer my life--disciplines over chasing after money, and God-knowledge over a lucrative career. For Wisdom is better than all the trappings of wealth; nothing you could wish for holds a candle to her.
In Bruce Doyle III’s book Before You Think Another Thought he suggests that “what you focus on expands in your life…[and]…it is important to focus your attention effectively.”
Focus is a choice – a preference.
Wisdom suggests that choosing to focus on spiritual disciplines and God-knowledge will yield something that wealth will never provide. The seductions of power, position and prestige can easily distract.
Leadership is not about what you preach or what you intend to do: it is about how you behave and the impact that has on people. How you lead, what you do and say are the result of choosing the right things to focus upon. Begin by focusing on Wisdom – that focus will prepare you each day to think, do and say the kind of things that please God and followers will admire. As Bruce says it, “What you believe is just you will get.”
Do you believe in Wisdom? Or wealth? Your answer matters.
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
In Bruce Doyle III’s book Before You Think Another Thought he suggests that “what you focus on expands in your life…[and]…it is important to focus your attention effectively.”
Focus is a choice – a preference.
Wisdom suggests that choosing to focus on spiritual disciplines and God-knowledge will yield something that wealth will never provide. The seductions of power, position and prestige can easily distract.
Leadership is not about what you preach or what you intend to do: it is about how you behave and the impact that has on people. How you lead, what you do and say are the result of choosing the right things to focus upon. Begin by focusing on Wisdom – that focus will prepare you each day to think, do and say the kind of things that please God and followers will admire. As Bruce says it, “What you believe is just you will get.”
Do you believe in Wisdom? Or wealth? Your answer matters.
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Leaders Learn From the Ant
This instruction is simple, but profound: "Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider her ways and be wise!" The ant society has no leader, no guide, no management team, but follows a pattern of work built into them by their Creator from which we can learn.
Four of the sixteen observed ant “behaviors” include:
Career Training: Ants learn particular jobs, especially worker ants; then, on some schedule, change & learn new careers – small business demands learning many tasks and doing each well. Larger business benefit from people who take on different tasks within an organization to better understand the "how" - something like ants!
Education: Ants may be the only group of animals besides us in which interactive teaching behavior has been observed during their life: they pace instruction to the learner’s ability – not all your employees use the same learning style as you did. Observe. Teach them based on how they learn. Some want visual examples - drawings, pictures, etc.: other, just written instructions; some want to watch before they do; others combine all for best learning.
Planning: Ants store food in the warm summer to feed a colony all of winter – Planning is one key to survival. Do you have a business plan? Like ANTS, remember, you must always be planning.
Limited Free Will: It seems that ant inter-relationships between ants more symbiotic than coercive. All of the above thrive in a symbiotic relationship. We can always learn from each other. Symbiotic relationships build on each other's strengths - working together to solve problems, no matter the "rank" of the team member. It's about solving a problem, not securing status. It's about listening. Communicating. On the other hand, coercive relationships are all about "me" and how "I" can get you to do what "I" want, when "I" want it. There is no "team" in coercive, save for the leader ( the "me" person) an all the other team members.
Observe and be wise: Leaders mentor, sacrificing time often to teach – even in tough times; a caring leader paces the instruction; and, an effective leader actively listens, interacting and communicating.
What kind of relationships do you cultivate: symbiotic or coercive?
Copyright ©2009 P. Griffith Lindell
Four of the sixteen observed ant “behaviors” include:
Career Training: Ants learn particular jobs, especially worker ants; then, on some schedule, change & learn new careers – small business demands learning many tasks and doing each well. Larger business benefit from people who take on different tasks within an organization to better understand the "how" - something like ants!
Education: Ants may be the only group of animals besides us in which interactive teaching behavior has been observed during their life: they pace instruction to the learner’s ability – not all your employees use the same learning style as you did. Observe. Teach them based on how they learn. Some want visual examples - drawings, pictures, etc.: other, just written instructions; some want to watch before they do; others combine all for best learning.
Planning: Ants store food in the warm summer to feed a colony all of winter – Planning is one key to survival. Do you have a business plan? Like ANTS, remember, you must always be planning.
Limited Free Will: It seems that ant inter-relationships between ants more symbiotic than coercive. All of the above thrive in a symbiotic relationship. We can always learn from each other. Symbiotic relationships build on each other's strengths - working together to solve problems, no matter the "rank" of the team member. It's about solving a problem, not securing status. It's about listening. Communicating. On the other hand, coercive relationships are all about "me" and how "I" can get you to do what "I" want, when "I" want it. There is no "team" in coercive, save for the leader ( the "me" person) an all the other team members.
Observe and be wise: Leaders mentor, sacrificing time often to teach – even in tough times; a caring leader paces the instruction; and, an effective leader actively listens, interacting and communicating.
What kind of relationships do you cultivate: symbiotic or coercive?
Copyright ©2009 P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, January 05, 2009
Bedrock Leadership for Small Business
Proverbs 5:1-2 (NIV) My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge.
Who you look to for wisdom when leading your small business (or large organization) determines – well, everything.
Business ethics adheres to the underlying principle that there is bedrock truth upon which you must build your thought life and behavior. Solomon of old never assumed that truth was relative and that morality was a function of personal choice: his worldview drove this writing of the verse below.
The predicate of this principle drives two actions: first, that your view of others will not be self-serving (maintain discretion); two, what you say actually builds the continuity of useful knowledge.
Leadership that honors others and builds a legacy begins at the source.
Do you pay more attention to what God teaches (duties we owe that support our “inalienable rights”) or the situational, shifting ethics of man?
Copyright © 2009 P. Griffith Lindell
Who you look to for wisdom when leading your small business (or large organization) determines – well, everything.
Business ethics adheres to the underlying principle that there is bedrock truth upon which you must build your thought life and behavior. Solomon of old never assumed that truth was relative and that morality was a function of personal choice: his worldview drove this writing of the verse below.
The predicate of this principle drives two actions: first, that your view of others will not be self-serving (maintain discretion); two, what you say actually builds the continuity of useful knowledge.
Leadership that honors others and builds a legacy begins at the source.
Do you pay more attention to what God teaches (duties we owe that support our “inalienable rights”) or the situational, shifting ethics of man?
Copyright © 2009 P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, January 02, 2009
Small Business Leaders: Choose Well To Whom You Listen
Proverbs 2:5 (NLT) Tune your ears to the world of Wisdom; set your heart {inclining and directing your heart and mind} on a life of Understanding.
Tune your ears to: make them open to; get them on the same frequency as - Wisdom.
More than just passive listening, this requires recognition of the worldview of the speaker. However, lest we tune-out the verb beginning this verse, break it down and discover that it's not a matter of just hearing; rather, it is a matter of choosing to listen.
We are bombarded with all kinds of "wisdom" especially with the Internet, from the media and from the educational system. Revisionists thrive. “Peer review” is left for the “stuffy journals.” What’s a small businessperson to do?
There is one Book that contains all the principals from which proven leadership actions emerge: for example, it outlines Duties all humans share such as: telling the truth; keeping your promises; respecting the rights of others. Just as one tunes a car radio, the wise business leader must tune their "radio" to pick up the "station" that provides Wisdom.
Where are our dials set?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
Tune your ears to: make them open to; get them on the same frequency as - Wisdom.
More than just passive listening, this requires recognition of the worldview of the speaker. However, lest we tune-out the verb beginning this verse, break it down and discover that it's not a matter of just hearing; rather, it is a matter of choosing to listen.
We are bombarded with all kinds of "wisdom" especially with the Internet, from the media and from the educational system. Revisionists thrive. “Peer review” is left for the “stuffy journals.” What’s a small businessperson to do?
There is one Book that contains all the principals from which proven leadership actions emerge: for example, it outlines Duties all humans share such as: telling the truth; keeping your promises; respecting the rights of others. Just as one tunes a car radio, the wise business leader must tune their "radio" to pick up the "station" that provides Wisdom.
Where are our dials set?
Copyright ©2009 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Being a Dependable Leader
It was David Ogilvy, who told his successor when asked what one piece of advice he could provide, is reported to have said, "No matter how much time you spend thinking about, worrying about, focusing on, questioning the value of and evaluating people, it won't be enough. People are the only thing that matters and the only thing you should think about, because when that part is right, everything else works."
Small Business leaders must first know and manage themselves to be effective leaders. For some, that might begin with simply dealing with how they handle stress, their dark, internal motivations, and the demons that haunt them. Get that right and you won’t be seeking either artificial stimulation or dulling booze offers.
If you can’t manage yourself, how can you manage others? Followers depend on their leaders to know right from wrong – especially in social occasions when they “let their hair down.”
Are you dependable in and out of the workplace?
Proverbs 31:4-5 (MSG) "Leaders can't afford to make fools of themselves, gulping wine and swilling beer, Lest, hung over, they don't know right from wrong, and the people who depend on them are hurt. Use wine and beer only as sedatives, to kill the pain and dull the ache of the terminally ill, for whom life is a living death.
Copyright ©2008 P. Griffith Lindell
Small Business leaders must first know and manage themselves to be effective leaders. For some, that might begin with simply dealing with how they handle stress, their dark, internal motivations, and the demons that haunt them. Get that right and you won’t be seeking either artificial stimulation or dulling booze offers.
If you can’t manage yourself, how can you manage others? Followers depend on their leaders to know right from wrong – especially in social occasions when they “let their hair down.”
Are you dependable in and out of the workplace?
Proverbs 31:4-5 (MSG) "Leaders can't afford to make fools of themselves, gulping wine and swilling beer, Lest, hung over, they don't know right from wrong, and the people who depend on them are hurt. Use wine and beer only as sedatives, to kill the pain and dull the ache of the terminally ill, for whom life is a living death.
Copyright ©2008 P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Leaders Don’t Quarrel
Proverbs 20:3 (AMP)
Keeping away from strife is an honor for a man, but any fool will quarrel.
The mix of humility and relentless will may define a “Level 5” (Collins, Good to Great), but for the Christian at work, there may be more to consider. Humility is more than some building block toward leadership: it must be an essence of the leader that drives a desire to serve others.
The land could not support both Abram and Lot’s herdsmen who were quarrelling (two groups professing faith) in a land of unbelieving people. Abram’s plea for peace came with a powerful offer to Lot: take half. Lot did not deserve it: was not promised it. But “keeping away from strife” drove Abram’s decision. He trusted God to provide even though Lot chose the best land.
Sometimes moving from “good to great” demands sacrifice to demonstrate greatness – a “move” that gives glory to God alone.
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, February 23, 2007
Leaders Lead with the Future in Mind
Proverbs 23:18 (NIV)
Life happens. The problems of the present may be huge. Leadership is the art of bringing a proper perspective into play – vision casting, inspiring hope.
Iwo Jima is a good example. Hardships were the rule of the day. Taking the island so our fliers could land was the hope. Grounding our flag at the top inspired troops for the battles that raged long after. There was hope and a future for that island!
The Christian Worldview offers hope that will never be cut off. The Christian leader understands that the eternal impact of her/his business life has little to do with market share and domination and more to do with the relationships he/she builds into employees, suppliers, competitors and customers.
Are you building a hope that matters?
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Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Motivation and Leadership
Proverbs 21:4 (MSG)
Arrogance and pride—distinguishing marks in the wicked—are just plain sin.
Why we do what we do says more about our character than what we do. Our motivations are often hidden – sometimes even from us.
Leadership that is self-centered is limiting. In Success Built to Last, the authors suggest that leadership that succeeds over time is attributable to the strength of the cause they pursue: "Enduringly successful people serve the cause--and they are lifted up by its power."
John Kotter observed in his article What Leaders Really Do , "Well-led businesses tend to recognize and reward people who successfully develop leaders."
Now there’s a cause. Find and control the motivations that are just about you. Feed and nurture the motivations that are about developing your team.
Leading is about others.
Copyright ©2007, by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, February 19, 2007
Celebrating 2007 President’s Day
Proverbs 19:27 (NKJV)
Cease listening to instruction, my son, and you will stray from the words of knowledge.
In her book, Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln, author Goodwin noted that Lincoln was consumed with learning. His Bible was never far from him and one of his quotes, no doubt stimulated by his constant reading of the Scriptures is, “Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.”
His character was demonstrated in a paradoxical mix of humility and resoluteness of will - one of the hallmarks of “Level 5 Leadership” (Good to Great, Collins).
Resoluteness in leading a team – his cabinet – made up of many who opposed him in his bid for the presidency to keep the Union together and emancipate the slaves.
Compassion (expression of humility) demonstrated in his 2nd Inaugural Address when he declared: "With malice toward none; with charity for all" that began the process of healing between the North and the South.
As great of a leader that Lincoln was, we have even a better model. Lincoln died. Christ rose from the dead, is living and still “instructs” us today.
Are you listening?
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Friday, February 16, 2007
Leaders Connect the Heart and the Mouth
Proverbs 16:21, 23: 6 (NAS)
21The wise in heart will be called understanding, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness. 23The heart of the wise instructs his mouth and adds persuasiveness to his lips.
One definition of leadership incorporates the word influence: another includes the words process of persuasion.
Definitions of leadership agree simply that a person who has followers is a leader. Street gangs have leaders. Criminal organizations have leaders.
It’s NOT about leadership; it is about the right kind of leadership. Wise leadership develops from other-centeredness that can only flow from a changed heart. Motives are changed. The intent of this heart yields gracious speech that increases impact.
When your heart is in sync with God’s heart, your persuasiveness takes on a winsome patina that results in mobilized action in your followers.
Do you want willing, motivated, committed followers? Start with your heart.
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, February 15, 2007
Leaders Communicate Carefully
Proverbs 15:2 (NKJV)
The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.
The stored-up knowledge of experience becomes most useful when communicated wisely. It takes care to communicate – proper time, proper place, and proper thoughts.
Using any of the many personality inventories gives clues to how a person processes information – how to speak their language. Blanchard/Hershey’s Situational Leadership posits that the right leadership style is based on the person being led: leaders communicate with awareness so that relationships can be built – that’s using knowledge rightly.
Foolish people practice “throwing it out there to see what sticks” with no concern to listener’s style, their underlying fears, or where they are in work experience – that’s more like “belch[ing] out foolishness” (NLT) than speaking.
Are you taking the time you need to communicate wisely?
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Leaders Understand the Promise of the Budget
Proverbs 14:4 (NIV)
Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox comes an abundant harvest.
Core Values are the promises the “team” makes to each other about how they will fulfill the mission and march to the beat of the vision. The budget puts teeth in those promises.
Whether personally or corporately, the heart follows the dollars – where your treasure is, there your heart will be.
As leaders, you may espouse one thing: your budget tells the team what you really believe.
Oh yes, budgeting is paradoxical: it is about both now and the future. Without the proper foundation (now) growth is limited (future). Does your budget reflect the promises of your values, your vision and your mission?
No oxen. No harvesting of the crop.
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Thursday, February 08, 2007
Your Worldview is Critical to Leadership
Proverbs 8: 22-23(NASB)
The LORD possessed me [Wisdom] at the beginning of His way, before His works of old. From everlasting I was established, from the beginning, from the earliest times of the earth.
The literature on theories of leadership has been around a long time and studies have emerged from every discipline you can name. All are based on a worldview that assumes origins (matter vs. spirit as eternal), defines the problems with mankind and the offers a (leadership) solution.
From Plutarch’s Lives, to more moderns writers like Selznick (1957 – infusion of values and purpose), Burns (1978 - ethically and morally transformational leadership) Greenleaf (1977- “servant leadership”), Bennis, Blanchard, Kotter and others offer valid ideas and processes on leadership.
God (Eternally Existent) tells us that effective leaders are first followers (of Him) and then lead by example (after your heart is born anew (shaped in Proverbs, demonstrated in the Gospels).
Man’s theories come and go. God’s have remained constant. Your worldview matters – today at work and eternally.
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Wednesday, February 07, 2007
Leaders Know What’s Precious
Proverbs 7:3 (NKJV)
Keep my commands and live,
And my law as the apple of your eye.
The idiom in this verse literally means the “pupil of the eye” but has come to mean, “that which we hold most precious.”
God’s laws, like principles of leadership are fundamentally about two issues: personal integrity and the value of others. Robin S. Sharma in Leadership Wisdom from The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari put it this way: “The greatest privilege of leadership is the chance to elevate lives."
Robert E. Staub - (The Heart of Leadership: 12 Practices of Courageous Leader) - reveals that those who purport to lead fail because they don't understand who it is they're trying to lead – which takes competency, intimacy, integrity, and passion.
Leaders know what is precious: It not the stuff that must be done. It’s the people who team with them to get it done.
What’s most precious to you?
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Tuesday, February 06, 2007
Leadership Lessons from the Ant – Part II
Proverbs 6: 6 (AMP)
Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider her ways and be wise! -
The instruction is simple, but profound. The ant society has no leader, no guide, no management team, but follows pattern of work built into them by their Creator.
Three observed ant “behaviors” that mirror our work include:
- Career Training: Ants learn particular jobs, especially worker ants; then, on some schedule, change & learn new careers
- Education: Ants may be the only group of animals besides us in which interactive teaching behavior has been observed during their life: they pace instruction to the learner’s ability
- Limited Free Will: It seems that ant inter-relationships more symbiotic than coercive.
Observe and be wise: Leaders mentor, sacrificing time often to teach; a caring leader paces the instruction; and, an effective leader actively listens, interacting and communicating.
What kind of relationships do you cultivate: symbiotic or coercive?
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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Monday, February 05, 2007
Leaders Ponder the “Right Stuff”
Proverbs 5: 6 (NKJV)
People at work often times are put in situations that can breed the wrong kind of “pondering.”
Godly leaders (at home or at work) are called to bring captive every thought by being saturated with Wisdom and then meditating (pondering) on the “right stuff.”
Meditating on the Word is foundational. In addition, developing an integrated Christian Worldview will yield insights, attitudes and behaviors that make the Sunday stuff alive at work and play.
Ponder that!
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Friday, February 02, 2007
Leaders Are Willing To Be Changed
…make your ear open to wisdom. Turn your heart to understanding.
William Penn, in 1699 wrote, “No man is fit to command another that can not command himself.”
There are two commands in this verse – make open and turn. It’s a matter of the will. Demanding a choice. And it’s not any wisdom: The leadership stories in both Testaments provide foundational understanding of leading. Just knowing about them is not enough. We must turn our heart (including our head, hands and habits) – ah, there’s the rub!
What is naturally in us is all about us: what is supernaturally assimilated in us changes our focus to others. That’s the key to “servant leadership.” If you want to influence others, first allow yourself to be changed – the head and the heart internally, the hands and the habits externally.
Are you willing to be changed so you can lead like Jesus?
Copyright ©2007 by P. Griffith Lindell
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