Vector Corrector Library
Your weekly inspiration
The DNA of Leadership has received many positive comments from a broad cross-section of readers. One comment seems to be consistent— “How do I keep the various characteristics in front of me all the time?”
The DNA of Leadership is designed to serve as a checklist to be reviewed periodically to help each of us stay on course. As an additional help we have started VECTOR CORRECTOR. It is a 60 second read sent by E-mail each week.
Past Vector Correctors
Vector Corrector 2012-19
It is said that real character is best seen when crisis is present. When life is easy and trouble seems far away, leading a life of character, values and integrity is easy. Actress Dolly Parton said, ” the way I see it, if you want a rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain”.
Vector Corrector 2012-18
We should show respect to everyone. Remember we are all different, coming from varied backgrounds and environments and possibly having different values and morals. Show respect even if not in agreement. Respecting and loving persons where they are can have a profound impact on their life and enrich ours too.
Vector Corrector 2012-17
Listen to everyone. Talk to not only those closest to you, but also your seniors, peers, subordinates and family. Effective leaders gather information from every interaction and are able to store what may be pertinent later. It is wise to be a good learning listener.
Vector Corrector 2012-16
John Grant, a former Florida State Senator wrote, “It is amazing what we can do when people take the time to be a source of encouragement in our lives. Encouragement of others is a powerful leadership tool and deals with basic communication skills. The most effective way to encourage others is to show genuine interest and acknowledge what is important to them. When we show interest, we affirm and validate”. Are we encouragers today and every day?
Vector Corrector 2012-15
Thomas Paine, quoted in the Rochester Democrat said, “Character is much easier kept than recovered”. The book, “The DNA of Leadership” and the Vector Corrector series specifically addresses the character of the leader and provides simple, fundamental points to assist everyone in knowing who they really are and encourages them to live a life that can make a difference.
Vector Corrector 2012-14
In the book/movie, “Seven days in Utopia”, writer/author David Cook tells the story of a young golfer who, after collapsing on the 18th hole and is ready to quit, ends up in a tiny town west of San Antonio where he meets an older golfer who offers to coach him in golf and life. In both the book and movie there are leadership lessons presented that can help everyone. Seeing, get a picture of what can be. Feel, sense what other or things can affect the outcome. Trust, in God, in others as well as personal gifts and desires. Simple, yet profound.
Vector Corrector 2012-13
As a leader, personal decisions can impact others in our sphere of influence. Our attitude and example often speak louder than words. In both cases, they can make or break the environment in the home, work place, church or community. Be positive whenever and wherever possible.
Vector Corrector 2012-12
Too often we seem to be captured by the mundane routine of life. That is why visionary leaders are unique. They inspire people to action with many reaching new levels of productivity. Thomas Edison wrote, “Vision without execution is hallucination.” Planning, goal setting and action make up the fullness of the visionary leader.
Vector Corrector 2012-11
Gary Kelly, Chairman and CEO of Southwest Airlines wrote in his New Years Spirit column “SWA has a passion for serving you, our valued customers.” Two words are reflective of what leaders should have as their focus. 1. Passion. The inner desire to do and be the best in one’s job. 2.Serving. The rock bed or cornerstone of our lives should be serving others whether in the home, job or as a good neighbor. A good motive is to serve something greater than self.
Vector Corrector 2012-10
It is said that the greatest leaders possess the rare quality of seeing what could be, not just what is. Such leaders are called Visionaries. Thomas Edison said “Vision without execution is hallucination.” I would add, “Vision without action is folly.” I see vision as an active verb, not a noun. How about you?
Vector Corrector 2012-9
Louis Grestner, Chairman and CEO of IBM once said, “Corporate Culture is not one thing a CEO does – it is everything he does.” Thought to remember: the leader sets the course and his or her personality is reflected in the entire organization, team or family.
Vector Corrector 2012-8
Value the “person” in everyone we meet. This is a wonderful principle because, “common folks” are the ones that “make things happen”. Yet so many feel of little value and unappreciated. We cannot express appreciation often enough. Do so today, to the janitor or trash man, and others who provide invaluable services.
Vector Corrector 2012-7
The one who cares more about their character than convenience, comfort, or cash, is probably having a solid influence when observed by peers, friends, family and others. It is called leading by example.
Vector Corrector 2012-6
We are well into the new year. Some say these are the dark ages. I would say it is the time to be courageous and shine. Three points apply:
- When we face a mountain of work—-BE ENERGIZED AND COURAGEOUS
- When we face a mountain of challenges—-BE ENCOURAGED AND COURAGEOUS
- When we face a mountain disapproval—-BE ETHICAL AND COURAGEOUS
Get the idea, courage counts.
Vector Corrector 2012-5
We should never make the same mistake twice because the second time we do so, it is not a mistake, it is a choice. If we keep making the same mistakes and expect different results, shame on us. Maybe we are slow learners.
Vector Corrector 2012-4
“When dealing with people, remember we are not dealing with creatures of logic, but with creatures of emotion, creatures bristling with prejudice and motivated by pride and vanity.” Dale Carnegie, Psychology Today. That is why I believe “Leadership is ALL About People.” Because if it were not for people, leadership would be easy. Sounds simple enough, but many fail the test when the “people side” is neglected. Let’s strive to put others before self.
Vector Corrector 2012-3
Consequences!!! For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. Remember that from school? The same is true in life as our actions do have consequences, either for good or for bad. We must be alert that we will be held accountable for the words, actions and influences emitting from us daily. So who holds us accountable? Family, bosses, the public, media, the community and ultimately God. Reminds me there are no free lunches.
Vector Corrector 2012-2
The leader who cares more about CHARACTER than convenience, comfort or cash is on the right tract. The bottom line is gauged by the influence we have on those around us at home and in the market place. We will be judged by the legacy we leave behind.
Vector Corrector 2012-1
This is the first Vector Corrector of 2012. Before we settle in and take off in the New Year, planning is essential. Pilots visit the planning room to check available and trustworthy resources to plot their journey. Weather, winds and destination conditions are considered. To ensure your safety and anyone with you, do plan. This year, don’t take off without considering the variables.