Even the most successful leaders must start somewhere
Published 12:00 am Friday, January 4, 2008
Harold Keller
Dr. John Maxwell, one of the most successful Christian motivational speakers and writers, said that early in his career he was an ineffective leader. The problem was that he, like most of us, wanted to please everybody. He shared that making people happy prevented him from having the courage to make right, but unpopular, decisions.
He turned things around by making small decisions that were difficult but right. He confessed that with each right, unpopular decision, he gained more confidence and courage. The process of change in his life took four years.
After the change in his life, he wrote the following 10 steps to cement what he had learned in becoming a successful leader in his field.
He had developed:
1. Convictions that were stronger than his fears.
2. Vision that was clearer that his doubts.
3. Spiritual sensitivity that was louder than popular opinion.
4. Self-esteem that was deeper than self-protection.
5. Appreciation for discipline that was greater than his desire for leisure.
6. Dissatisfaction that was more forceful than the status quo.
7. Poise that was more unshakeable than panic.
8. Risk-taking that was stronger than safety-keeping.
9. Actions that were more robust than rationalization.
10. A desire to see potential reached more than to see people pleased.
If people-pleasing is your problem, you might want to occasionally read these 10 steps that could change your life.
If you have any questions, or comments, please write to Get High on Life, P.O. Drawer U, Reserve, LA 70084, call (985) 652-8477, or e-mail: hkeller@comcast.com.