The United States of America's Independence Day - 2020

Photo courtesy of Henry Ford College

As we look to celebrate the birthday of our nation, the day we designate to celebrate our freedom from a tyrannical king who ruled from the other side of the Atlantic Ocean, I want to share some of my thoughts.

The opening to our Declaration of Independence, "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness."

Today, this is where I want to focus on the opening to our Declaration of Independence. The truths that our forefathers knew to be “self-evident” were all found under the covering of these distinct attributes. Although they are "self-evident”, these men found it necessary to put them in writing for a proclamation to the world in general, their fellow citizens as a whole, and King George III specifically. Sometimes things that are “self-evident” are not always in the forefront of our thoughts or beliefs. There can be times when the world around us seems to be falling apart and we should cling onto these truths which are indeed, “self-evident”.

We are experiencing some dark times in our nation right now. Who knows when it will subside or if there will be another flash-point that makes things worse? One response we can have in troubled times is to lash out in anger, play the victim and proclaim “them” as the villain. Reacting in this manner does not bring people together and fails to reflect the “self-evident” truths that we can read about in our Declaration of Independence.

I want to address the truths that we see in this opening paragraph, as quoted above.

• All men are created equal: This is for all mankind. The phrase is used in a generic term in reference to humans. I know and realize that there was slavery, so not all men were treated equally, but that does not negate the truth that they are all created equal.

• …they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights. These “Rights” are not to be controlled by a governing body. These rights simply exist. These rights are unable to be alienated from the right to be human. These rights are sewn into the fabric of human nature. Among these rights, three of them are uniquely pointed out here.

• Life: A basic right to live, breath, think, and be.

• Liberty: “The state of being free within society from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one's way of life, behavior, or political views.” We all have a responsibility to live at peace with others, but we do not have the right to use governing powers or brute force to restrict one’s way of life, behavior, or political views. I may not agree with someone and we may choose to participate in rigorous debate. In the end, it is never okay for me to impose my view of religion (one’s way of life), behavior, or politics upon someone else through the use of force.

• The pursuit of Happiness: We are never guaranteed happiness. We are only given the right to pursue happiness. What makes me happy may not be the same thing that makes you happy. As long as my happiness does not cause direct physical or financial harm to you then I have the right chase after that happiness.

I am grateful to the many men and women who serve in our armed forces and the various law enforcement agencies. They put their lives on the line every day for my Life, Liberty, and pursuit of Happiness. If I could personally thank each of these individuals that would still be too little of an expression of gratitude. Saying “thank you” is truly the least I can do, but that is where I will start. Thank you!

Happy Birthday to The United States of America! Happy Independence Day! May we all enjoy our Life, Liberty, and pursuit of Happiness!

Start From Zero - Something to Consider

Start from Zero - Dane Maxwell

This book was a different kind of business book from those I have reviewed in the past. I believe the lessons taught are just as valuable in business as those found in previously reviews. This is really a different take on leadership and it focuses on the realm of ownership and being an entrepreneur (I cannot spell that word without help).

In many businesses, the tendency is view the “expert” as a great candidate to be the next leader of his or her team. Most leadership books that I endorse will convey the idea that being the expert and being a leader are two separate sets of skills. An expert is a great technical or procedural expert but that does not make them a strong leader of people. To be a significant leader of people, it is helpful to have a technical aptitude. However, a notable difference is shared in the quote from Theodore Roosevelt, “Nobody cares how much you know, until they know how much you care.”

In this book, the reader is encouraged to step even further away from being the technical expert or being competent with a technical aptitude, and suggests taking on the mindset of an owner. Dane Maxwell, walks the reader through making this adjustment in how to think about earning money for yourself, your family, your dreams, and your desire to help others.

There are many ideas and thoughts shared in this book, which I plan to put into practice over the coming years. A key element here is to keep moving forward even when failures occur. Dane is not encouraging the reader to keep a failed business idea alive even when there is no chance of success. He is conveying that as an entrepreneur, you should be prepared that your first try at starting a business is not likely to succeed. A key idea is to “fail fast” and learn from that failure, ensuring the same failure is not repeated.

One key aspect that was not explicitly described, but implied, is that once a business is launched and reaches a certain level of success, it is time to let someone who knows how to lead that business be in charge. In other words, find a CEO to take over that business. Dane does not advocate giving up majority ownership, rather find a competent leader who will help you make sure that business can grow.

I have seen and read about a number of business that struggle with “Founder’s Syndrome” (aka foundersitis). One thing that can be the outcome of Founders Syndrome is that the business cannot grow beyond the founder’s ability to control daily operations. A founder can become so invested in the idea that they are the technical expert, business expert, marketing expert, and/or sales expert that it ends up stifling growth beyond a count of 100 - 150 employees. Ironically, a study of military history will also show that starting in the early 20th Century we have progressively learned that a field commander struggles with oversight an excess of 150 troupes within their command. In both business and our military we have learned that our front-line leaders (team leads, fire team leaders, etc.) are the most effective at helping to gain success and significance within their teams. With the instruction provided in Start From Zero, handing the reigns over to a CEO once a business grows beyond your ability to lead it, is a great idea.

I would highly recommend this book. The tools taught will take time to implement and practice before one should expect entrepreneurial success. Dane shows that we really can start from zero and build a business.

Naked at Work - A Leader's Guide to Fearless Authenticity

Naked at Work

According to Merriam-Webster the definition of Authentic: “true to one’s own personality, spirit, or character. //is sincere and authentic with no pretense”. Pause for 30 seconds, let that definition resonate in your heart and mind. How often to you find yourself being authentic in everyday life? It does not take long for people around me to see whether or not I am being authentic. I am not as good at deceiving others as I sometimes think I am. So, why do I even try?

Sometimes shame can lead me to where I believe it is best to cover-up my past or try to ignore its influence. I have done some foolish things in my past, made decisions based upon false premises, jumped to unfavorable conclusions of others, and hurt others either intentionally or unintentionally. When I let the shame shroud my past, it shows up in being defensive about and overthinking the words and actions of others. I can often either hide my concerns and deny they exist or I overreact and lash out at others. Neither of those responses are helpful in any area of life, and are even more destructive when I am looked to for leading others.

I am not a psychologist nor do I aspire to become one. I am simply seeking to learn how to be authentic to who I am designed to be. Shame is a tool to hide my failures and shortcomings. Authenticity helps me not only uncover the pain in my past, but also is key for dealing with the results of those failures, while moving forward as a stronger person and leader.

In this book, Danessa Knaupp does a masterful job at helping the reader understand how shame will hold us back and how we can turn that around to properly balance those struggles with being authentic in leading others. The opening chapter is titled, “There is no Perfect Leader”. From the very beginning we are led to understand, get rid of the idea of an exact formula for leadership.

Danessa goes on to show the detrimental affects of shame and then spends the majority of the time helping us to learn of the enormous benefits of authenticity as it relates to leadership at work. In many of the scenarios provided, we see Danessa’s own struggles with shame in failed business attempts and growth in authenticity. We read of others along the way helped her in learning to grow. These experiences have shaped her into an exemplary leadership coach.

I also had the privilege to participate in a group discussion with Danessa through Dose of Leadership University past weekend (June 13th, 2020). In our conversation she was extremely gracious, encouraging, and helpful. The impact Danessa had on our group will reverberate through to many others and her impact will only continue to spread, like the ripples from a stone when thrown into water. She and Richard Rierson had a great conversation which you can hear on Richard’s Dose of Leadership podcast from June 3rd, 2020. I highly recommend Danessa’s book and Richard’s podcast to all leaders from all walks of life as we all should be seeking to be authentic in every aspect of our lives.

Building Professional Relationships

If you get along, they will go along

Building effective teams is how things get done. There are many facets to getting a team to work together with a high level of efficiency and effectiveness. Building strong professional relationships is one of the most important keys to a successful team. Some key areas of focus when building relationships are below:

1. Understand People - Use your head, think clearly about those in your care. All people have these in common

   • We all like to feel special, sincerely compliment others

   • We all seek for a better tomorrow, provide hope

   • We all are looking for direction, provide navigational insight and tools

   • We all experience emotional lows, be a source of encouragement

   • We all want to succeed, guide others in how to get there

2. Care for People - Have a heart that shows compassion

   • You cannot be a truly effective leader, unless people want to follow you. Show others you care for them and they are more likely to follow your lead

3. Help People - Extend a hand up to those in need

   • Leaders are more respected when they keep the interests of others in mind

   • Focus on what you can sew into others rather than what you can reap from them and others will follow you to the front lines of the battle you face

If you are like me, you may find it difficult to build relationships at times. Here is some advise that has been given to me.

• Improve how you think about relationships. Read books like, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie.

• Strengthen your heart and compassion for others. Take your focus off of your own success and significance and place it upon those in your care.

• Repair hurting relationships. How many of us are estranged from siblings, children, parents, or old friends? Reach out, take ownership and responsibility for your part of the rift that has occurred, and seek to rebuild.

Without relationships, there is no leading. Relationships are not the only way we lead, but it is the primary way to build trust and to influence others in a positive and significant manner. No one is perfect at relationships, which means it is very important to practice getting better with every opportunity you have.

Warfighting - MCDP 1

Marine Corp Doctrine Publication 1

The United States Marine Corp is arguably the most well run organization in modern times. They have learned many lessons through extreme trials and tribulations. One of the keys to their success over the years is due to the emphasis they place on preparing leaders. “Warfighting” (aka Marine Corp Doctrine Publication 1) is one of many publications which are in use by the Marines to shape and mold, up and coming leaders.

This book is a primer for preparing young Marines for leadership in war. From what I can tell, in hearing from those who have been involved, war contains the most chaotic experience one can imagine. A majority of those who read this review will never experience the level of anxiety that is present in war, that does not change the value we can gain in reading and learning from this publication.

The book is broken down into four main sections

• The Nature of War: Friction, Uncertainty, Disorder, Fluidity, and Complexity of War are among the items identified and discussed. Here, the framework for understanding is established. This is the foundation for the rest of the learning which takes place. In business we are not facing war, there are many foundational principles provided that help us understand the nature of people and how we often find ourselves in conflict with other groups, organizations, or even ourselves.

• The Theory of War: The Spectrum of Conflict, Levels of War, Styles of Warfare, and Combat Power are all includes as some of the topics in this chapter. Building upon the nature of war, understanding how these topics build the overall theory of war creates additional building blocks for the subsequent chapters. The information provided in this chapter helps the reader understand ways in which we may find ourselves entrenched within certain professional and personal conflicts.

• Preparing for War: Organization, Professionalism, Training, Equipping, and Personnel Management are just a few of the key items of focus in this chapter. It is made clear that having a proper understanding of the topics covered in the previous two chapters, helps us understand the value of preparedness. I liken this focus on preparations as similar to Stephen Covey’s idea of “Sharpen the Saw”. Taking an appropriate amount of time to properly train your team pays dividends towards a winning mindset that goes well beyond what we can truly measure.

• The Conduct of War: Philosophy of Command, Shaping the Action, Decision making, and Mission Tactics are all topics which show us the value of conducting ourselves in a way that helps us maintain high standards of efficiency, effectiveness and personal conduct even in the midst of high pressure situations.

Yes, this book focuses on what it takes to fight a war. In business we do not find ourselves in a war with others, but we will experience plenty of conflict and competition. As a non-military reader, I gleaned a wealth of understanding how I can be a better leader, worker, father, and friend. I was faced with the value of understanding the foundation and framework in preparing myself and those in my care for struggles in life and business. The book provided clarity on the value of effective, adequate, properly directed, and focused training. Training is invaluable and needs to be conducted in both a formal classroom setting as well as individuals taking it upon themselves to learn. Finally, the idea of holding myself to a high standard as I conduct both my private and public business is of the highest importance.

My hope is that you will pick up this book and read it for yourself. It is full of information that can take years to properly absorb and a lifetime to properly apply. The book is not only applicable in war, it can be viewed as a tool to guide your own life and responsibilities.

Memorial Day 2020

Sitting here in Northeast Florida and watching the rain fall, gives me time to reflect and ponder the freedoms a have. I would like to encourage you to do the same. Contribute to my list,as I share these thoughts. Some of these are freedoms expressed in our US Constitution, others are derived from that same document.

• Peaceful Assembly - I can get together with like-minded individuals and discuss, listen to, and pontificate on a wide variety of topics and ideas (even those in conflict with others who are in the government), without threat or danger of being sent to ”re-education camps”.

• Earn and spend my own wages - I understand that taxes are a reality, but I am able to learn and apply skills in the market place which are in demand and need to be filled. I can educate myself and learn how to apply new combined talents and knowledge.

• Property ownership - I do not have to be reliant upon a governing body to provide my housing.

• Choices in what I eat - Our grocery stores are filled with more variety than we realize. Have you ever considered, even the choices even in the bread area?

This is an extremely limited list. I use it just to start all of us to be thinking about just how much the sacrifice of our men and women, serving in the military and have gaven their lives for our freedoms, means to you and I.

Let us never forget, not today, not tommorow, not ever!

The Effective Executive

The Definitive Guide to Getting the Right Things Done

When I first picket up this book, I assumed that it was addressed to individuals who are at a Vice President level or higher. It did not take long for me to be corrected. In this book, Peter Drucker defines an executive as anyone who needs to make decisions around how things are done. In our business climate where more jobs are being filled by who are considered “knowledge workers”, the daily decisions that need to be made are growing all the time and being pushed to lower levels within the organization.

One primary premise in this book is that effectiveness can be learned. Often we can be ineffective by nature and rarely realize just how much more effective we can become. A great place to start is by tracking how time is being spent. Take a couple of weeks and specifically track what you are doing, using 30 minute segments. It will likely reveal times that can be used with greater efficiency.

I was specifically drawn in by the idea of understanding the strengths of those around you and learning how to place people in a position to use their strengths. This timing works out well for me, as I am getting ready to go through “Strengths Finders 2.0” with my cohorts at work.

There is a lot of great insight and knowledge shared in this book. If this book is being read with the intent of learning and growing your ability to be effective, much can be discerned and applied starting today. In the end, Peter Drucker goes on to say that if an individual wants to be effective, it is imperative that they seek to learn how to do so. This book goes a long way to laying that learning foundation.

This is a book that will keep near me and read again. There is much to digest. Great ideas and examples abound in this book. If you are indeed seeking to become a more effective knowledge worker and prepare yourself to make better executive decisions, this book is for you.

Solving Problems - Do Not Let Your Problems be a Problem

Facing problems is part of our daily experience. They come at us in a variety of ways and forms. How we solve one problem helps set us up for solving the next problem. So, I need to ask myself, with each problem I face, what am I going to do? We can address problems head on, guide or direct others to help them provide a resolution, or let the problems work themselves out.

Effective leaders face problems

• Anticipate the Problem: Some problems may be quarterly or annual issues (i.e. ups and downs in business cycles). Find ways to minimize the impact of these problems or setup procedures and plans to neutralize the impact these problems.

• Accept the truth: We live in a world that is filled with difficulties. Some understand that nearly every problem has been similarly faced in the past. We have experienced economic downturns, global pandemics, struggles with physical disabilities, and more. Seek to learn from the successes and failures of how they have been handled.

• See the Big Picture: Do not let a problem drive your emotional response. Remember to keep your head clear. Is this an isolated issue or a noteworthy pattern? Respond to the problem and its nature rather than reacting

• Handle Problems by Addressing One Thing at a Time: No matter who often someone tells us that we can multi-task, there are multiple studies which show that is inaccurate. Which piece or part of the problem needs to be handled first? Find that answer and get the first thing conquered before going onto the next part.

• Do Not Give Up on a Major Goal When You are Down: I have often heard that plans are essential, but never stay intact at first contact with the enemy. Understanding and keeping in mind your major goal or objective in what you are trying to accomplish will help driving through the difficulties that problems bring. This will help you stay focused to continue the push towards your vision.

Every problem helps you gain additional insight into who you are and where you are leading yourself. Throughout The Bible we hear of the refining process for purifying minerals into usable materials (gold, silver, iron, etc.) and how that is an image of growth in the lives of people. Problems we face can refine us in character, wisdom, and insight. Take these opportunities to learn how to be stronger and more effective for the future.

Surround yourself with problem solvers. If you have read some of my previous posts, you will see that I highly recommend finding a mentor or coach. It is not necessary to limit yourself to just one mentor or coach, but a group of others who you trust and each have a desire for and experience of helping to be part of solving problems. You will benefit greatly from having these people in your life.

Be Know Do - Leadership the Army Way

Be Know Do

Years ago, before embarking on my desire to grow as a leader, I thought of the military as a group of non-thinking people who must simply follow orders. Now, as I learn more about leadership, I am learning that the idea of “Command and Control” is not a part of today’s military in the United States. I am learning more and more about the values espoused by our military. Some of these ideas are as follows:

• Decentralized command

• Commander’s intent

• Character

• Leading from the front

• Taking responsibility for your own responses

Without them knowing it, there are at least two retired US Navy Seals whom I view as personal mentors. They both have podcast that I listen to on a regular basis. Additionally, I have been privileged to be coached by Richard Rierson, a retired pilot for the US Marines and current pilot for American Airlines. Through these men, I get to gain insight and understanding of excellence in leadership, attention to detail, and intentional execution.

“Be Know Do”, serves to re-enforce these principles of leadership that I am learning. Leadership principles where not invented by some guru of the 20th or 21st centuries. Many of the principles explained in this book are ideas that can be found in the Torah, The Holy Bible, writings from Confucius and Marcus Aurelius just to mention a few. The authors of this book helps the reader see how these principles are applied by the US Army. There is much to be learned here.

I found the break out of how After Action Reports (AARs) are structured, how they can be used, and the benefits derived to be very enlightening. I look forward to figuring out how I can actually put this into practice with those who are in my care.

I would recommend this book for all who have a passion for effective leadership, a desire to serve others in helping them succeed, and wants to be an influencer of significance. It takes more than just reading this book to help a leader become effective. As you read through this book, seek ways that you can put the principles at work in you life.

Positive Attitude: How Do You Look At The World Around You?

Many of us know something about the life of Thomas Edison. I am fairly certain he still has more patents than anyone in the history of the United States. A famous quote attributed to Thomas Edison is, “Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration”. We can read this quote and gain a few keys to success and a significant life. The main focus I want to explore today is attitude.

“Ninety-nine percent perspiration”, means that the focus of our attitude has to stay positive while we work hard. This is not a declaration that the only thing we need is a positive attitude. I can sit on my couch all day long and say that I am positive that I will get fit someday. This is not the kind of positive attitude that gets things done. It is imperative that a positive attitude be accompanied by the perspiration. This helps drive the learning and growing process. When you realize that each time you make a mistake, fail to accomplish a task, or fall short of a goal; you have been given a learning experience. This is when you are going to grow, gain understanding, and realize what part worked along with which did not.

Consider the following thoughts around your attitude:

• Your attitude is your choice. If you have not already done so, consider reading Viktor Frankl’s book, Man’s Search for Meaning. Viktor lived in one of the German death camps during World War 2. In this book, he shares that experience and helps us understand how we are responsible for our own attitude.

• Your attitude determines your action. Just like the experiments and successes of Thomas Edison, if your attitude is positive and you are willing to learn from the things which did not work, then growth, significance, and progress is part of your future.

• Your people are a mirror of your attitude. Look of the overall attitude of those you lead and those with whom you spend time. If you are like me, then you will see a similar attitude and perspective among your circle of friends and your children. If you are in a leadership role, your attitude will usually be contagious for those in your care.

• Maintaining a good attitude is easier than regaining one. When we fall into self-pity it is a dangerous path for the health of our attitude and our physical bodies. Self-pity distorts your view on reality, leads us to jump to unfavorable conclusions, and drains energy.

How much are you listening to yourself rather than telling yourself about your attitude? I know that I can talk myself out of a workout, if I just listen to myself. However, if I am talking to myself and focusing on supporting and enhancing a positive attitude I can ensure that my workout is one that drives me harder than before.

There are many decisions to make every day. Chief among your decisions needs to be your attitude. Are you going to find ways to stay positive, or let yourself go down the path of negativity? The choice is yours, and the results will influence all other decisions.