Your Life is Your Story Newsletter

February 20, 2005 Issue-017 – Leader Values

From Tom Gilbert – Editor and Writer, www.your-life-your-story.com

In this Issue:

Opening remarks: What Would George Do?
Featured Article: Leader Values
Resources You Can Use: Your Favorite Year, Your Life Changing Event and other services

Opening Remarks: What Would George Do?

Presidents’ Day is one of those annual holidays in the United States that falls on a Monday. It makes for a nice three-day weekend for many, but I wonder if this holiday – like so many others – has become just another excuse for retailer sales and time off from work.

Don’t get me wrong; I like my days off as much as anyone. And I’m fine with saving money shopping. In fact, working in radio broadcasting I can appreciate the need for businesses to advertise.

But, on the subject of Presidents, it wouldn’t hurt to spend some of the day reflecting on what that position is all about. Leading a nation is a tough job. Nobody is going to be perfect. With all the challenges we currently face I can’t help but wonder what George would do?

George Washington, that is.

Hope you enjoy this issue and the article on Leader Values.

While the main focus of this newsletter is to share thoughts, ideas, and insights on life story writing you should know that I offer various services and also mention some products and services that can be helpful. You are under no obligation to purchase anything, but if any of these products or services are helpful and you decide to utilize them then I am most grateful.

Thanks for reading. – Tom

Feature Article: Leader Values

An Article on the Qualities of Leadership

"Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power" — Abraham Lincoln

Two of America's greatest leaders were born in February — George Washington, the first U.S. President, and Abraham Lincoln, the sixteenth President. Hence the national holiday, Presidents' Day (more here). Both men served the in the highest office of the land and under very trying circumstances. They had to face great challenges and make decisions that required fortitude and courage.

It is natural for us to look to leaders of nations or companies for demonstrations of leadership. However, many people find themselves in positions of leadership. Some serve in that capacity without fanfare or recognition. Any parent knows the responsibilities that come with raising a family and making decisions that require as much strength of character as any president.

"What makes greatness is starting something that lives after you" — Ralph W. Sockman

One of the benefits of recording personal history is the passing on of values that come from making the decisions that guide and effect family and contribute to a legacy.

What are some of the characteristics of good leadership?

Fortitude and courage have already been mentioned. Decisiveness is key. The ability to look at all sides and to be well informed and fair are also assets.

Maybe the greatest characteristic is the willingness to do for others. Servant leadership is a word that gets bantered about, but how many truly understand it? It also seems like an oxymoron. Leaders are in charge; servants obey.

Any true leader knows that being of service is part of the job, whether in the boardroom or living room. Putting others' needs before one's own requires sacrifice and humility. Most would agree these are good qualities in any individual, especially leaders. Without such qualities leaders are self-centered at best and tyrannical at worst.

In Max DePree's book, Leadership Jazz, he compares servant leadership to a jazz band. Each player contributes his best in the instrument of his choice, using his unique voice. Often the best jazz sounds like it is about to fall apart, yet somehow holds together. Inspired playing creates exciting, cutting edge music that transcends the predictable.

As you ponder your life story, consider the areas where you've best contributed your gifts. Look at the results. Have they brought about new ways of seeing life? Has there been personal growth? If you recognize these values in yourself and others then you can learn from them and, better yet, pass them on to family and friends.

You can read other articles on life-story writing here.

Resources You Can Use

I can do something similar with Your Life Changing Event. Chances are there has been a significant event in your life that has altered you in a profound way. It could have been a major life achievement, your marriage, battling a disease or a spiritual experience.

If you would like more information on Your Favorite Year and Your Life Changing Event simply go here and fill out the form. You can also request information on other services I provide such as a Family Newsletter, Ghost Written Autobiography and the Mini-Memoir.

That’s it for this month’s issue. Thanks for reading and here’s to telling your story. Do give it some serious consideration because I just know you’ve got a great story to tell! Be sure to see the Get Started section.

Any comments, ideas or feedback is greatly appreciated. Just reply to this ‘zine and tell me what you think!

Until next time, – keep your story alive!

Tom Gilbert