This definition of a leader, put forth by John Quincy Adams, fits the BTL model of being clear, concise, and direct. I think he hit it on the head. Here it is…
“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.”
What do you think?
Today, choose to ACT not simply think or talk. This will inspire.
Today, clear an obstacle that is blocking one of your teammates. This will free them to dream again.
Today, don’t give your team the answer to a problem they bring to you. Instead, take the time to ask them tough questions. Help them find the answer and get them to see the solution coming into focus. This will teach them how to think more critically. Talk about some real learning…
Today, finish something you’ve been putting off for who knows how long. Model what it looks like to finish a few things. This will cause your team to reflexively do more.
Today, decide to habituate the BTL 20-40-60. Make this a habit 6 days a week.
Twenty minutes of reflecting and writing. This brings uncommon clarity.
Forty minutes of reading for your development. You and I can only apply what we have learned, and can only know that we’ve learned something by appropriately studying. Remember, we believe in study, learn, and apply. I read like a banchee because I’m crazy about this work. I just am. I’ve just finished The Warmth of Other Suns, by Isabel Wilkerson (AWESOME), Almost polished off The Art of Non=Conforming by Chris Guillebeau (Right up my alley but underwelmed), and midway through Souls in Transition by Christian Smith (This one is going to be enlightening toward better understanding the “emerging adults” in my work/life).
Sixty minutes of exercise that involves resistance training, core strengthening, cardio, and occasional sprinting. This will give you the energy to dream and do, dream and do, and continue to dream and do until you finish well.
Follow this framework, make it yours, and nuance it a thousand tiny ways and then a thousand more, and you’re on your way to becoming more.
This will not be easy. This is why real leaders are so rare.
What do you think?
Tell me more, my friend.
Tell me more…
BUILT TO LEAD 