Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Leadership and me

I recently heard Perry Noble say in an interview with Catalyst (podcast) that Bill Hybels will forgot more about leadership than he will (Perry) ever learn in a life time.

One of the things that I have often admired, as Perry points out as well, is Bill Hybels consummate state of learning. What must it be like to be known as a foremost expert in the area of leadership and leadership development, but by his own admission, have so much to learn?

One of my goals this coming year is to be a continual learner. I hope to read, listen, observe, ask questions and apply new knowledge each and every day. So for practicality purposes, I will share what steps I have already begun to take.

1) I bought several new books on the subject of leadership including: The Starbucks Experience, by Michelli; The 21 Most Powerful Minutes in a Leader's Day, by Maxwell; Built To Serve, by Sanders; The Effective Executive, by Drucker; 9 Things A Leader Must Do, by Cloud; You Don't Need A Title To Be A Leader, by Sandborn; The Difference Maker, by Maxwell; and The Truth About You, by Buckingham

2) I am committed to listening to various speakers, communicators, authors and more via podcast

3) I am going to make an intentional effort to surround myself with highly integrious, effectual leaders - both in the "marketplace" as well as within the church

4) I am committed to writing, teaching, sharing and living out what I have experienced and learned about leadership

Needless to say, I hope that this year will be a year of wonderful insight, growth and productivity for me.

So, here goes...