It's Tuesday at 2:00pm! (PST Time: I live and work from Southern California)
In this New Year I'm going to continue to explore some leadership quotes that might challenge us, inspire us or remind us of different aspects of the leadership journey. This is part of my personal journey to keep growing, learning and being stretched! Join me each Tuesday at 2:00pm (PST). It will take you just a few minutes to read through the 2 sections of this post, but don't miss the final section where I share some of the things I'm reading, listening to and enjoying this week.
You can find past posts on my website HERE.
Enjoy!
LEADERSHIP QUOTE:
“Without courage we will simply accumulate a collection of good ideas and regrets." Andy Stanley
What does this stir up? Either write me HERE or comment at the end of the blog post HERE.
A LITTLE BIT DEEPER:
This is the last quote from Andy Stanley we'll share as we finish the month of July. I shared this earlier in the month, but Andy continues to challenge me in my leadership, in my faith and in my pursuit of God's call on my life. His books continue to bring value to my life and leadership, and he's one of the authors I continually return to for inspiration and truth.
When I think about the quote above, I can picture Stanley saying this because he has a way of saying it like it is.
He's reminding us of the power of courage in our lives, and speaking to those of us who at times get stuck.
Courage can be defined in many ways. Look at these definitions:
"The ability to do something that frightens one"
"Strength in the face of pain or grief"
"To give support, confidence, or hope to someone"
"Mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear or difficulty"
Which one makes the most sense to you? What does courage look like in your life?
What is it that keeps you from responding with COURAGE?
DEEPER STILL:
Courage: I'm thinking of a time in my life where I demonstrated courage as a leader.
Here's a big one. The year was 1999 and we (our Youth World Ministry Team) had a dream and a vision to develop a retreat center in Ecuador to reach people with the message of Hope in Jesus and to train leaders and partner with the local church.
The problem was that we didn't have any money, just a BHAG: A Big Hairy Audacious Goal.
Fast forward through lot's of conversations, prayers and scouting properties, and we settled on a place, made an offer, and handed the owner $1,000 as a down payment with a promise to pay for the rest of it within 6 months. The price was about $180,000 USD.
Courage or Stupidity?
Our team was convinced that this was what we should do, and the property was perfect.
Now almost 25 years later, El Refugio has an incredible ministry every day.
We were able to raise the funds needed to purchase the property, and we've had partners come alongside for years to help us develop it. There were some scary moments along the way, there were feelings of uncertainty and some fear, however in the big picture, zero regrets. The ministry of El Refugio has changed and impacted lives and will continue to do so for years and years to come.
Looking back is always easier than living through an experience in courage.
When have you been courageous and seen that courage play out to make a lasting impact?
Things I'm Reading, Listening To and Watching This Week:
Find out more about Andy Stanley on his website.
I'm reading Andy's book, "Not In It To Win It: Why Choosing Sides Sidelines The Church". Really good thoughts about how to look at unity and love as the driver as the model of Jesus.
When I read stories of business start-ups, it's often a story of COURAGE. Read the Guy Raz book, "How I Built This" or listen to his PODCAST for some great stories of courage in the business place.
I recently heard about U2 doing a live concert event in Las Vegas this fall. It took me to their Essential Album on Apple. What a library of great music!
I'm enjoying using the Trackman at the golf driving range. It really helps me learn my club distances.