It's Tuesday at 2:00pm! (PST Time: I live and work from Southern California)
Currently, I'm exploring different leadership quotes on this blog post, and pulling out some application for all of us. 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.
Russ
LEADERSHIP QUOTE:
"A desk is a dangerous place from which to view the world." John Le Carre
What does this stir up? Either write me HERE or comment at the end of the blog post HERE.
A LITTLE BIT DEEPER:
We've been talking about PERSPECTIVE for the past few weeks, and I found this quote, and then I "experienced" this quote.
Over the past few years, my position has changed from my primary work taking place all over the globe to functioning from my home office, pivoting in response to changes in travel, technology and the pandemic.
I've enjoyed some of the advantages of not living on the road, but I realize that my perspective has changed as I stare at my computer screen more than I used to, and I'm not breathing the air with the leaders I have the privilege to coach and encourage.
For the past 5 days, Gina and I "got out" and enjoyed a change of scenery. Fresh air, good friends, a strong breeze, water, new food and experiences, and some good fun.
This morning I'm filled up, re-energized, optimistic and ready for today.
Perspective.
I saw this quote a couple of weeks ago, but didn't really think about it until today.
While I will still use my desk and computer for my work, I realize the importance of seeing and experiencing the world in creative ways whenever that is possible.
When was the last time you got out? How did that make your feel? Did it change your perspective?
DEEPER STILL:
Finding a new or different perspective takes work. You have to intentionally go after it. It always takes time and energy. Sometimes it costs money, but it's ALWAYS worth the effort.
I recently read this article from Jacqueline T. Hill on Lifehack, and I think it's a great place to start. You can read the full article here, but she says to start with these 3 things:
#1) STOP COMPLAINING: Whatever the issue is, whenever you feel like complaining, fold your thumb, bite your tongue, do something and make sure it stops you from letting out a complaint.
#2) CONSCIOUSLY SEEK HAPPINESS: When you are happier, you will see things more positively and seek out more things that make you happy.
#3) REDUCE THE SOCIAL MEDIA VITRIOL: When different phrases in a post hit social media, some people do not understand them, which can increase online conflicts. Responding to critical or negative posts with a sense of maturity and lightheartedness will lessen any vitriol spills and keep anyone from receiving blocks.
Or better yet, do a Social Media Detox as described HERE.
Don't settle for the perspective you get when you're sitting at your desk, when you're behind your computer monitor. Take a break. Get out. Change the scenery. Take a deep breath. Be intentional. Things will look different.
Things I'm Reading, Listening To and Watching This Week:
Listen to this episode from the Andy Stanley Leadership Podcast and his conversation with Clay Scroggins on "surprising ways leadership is changing."
I'm reading this short new book from Dave Ramsey called The Momentum Theorem. It's a quick read and it has gotten me thinking!
This article from the University of Minnesota talks about the power of nature and how it affects our wellbeing. Nature will change your perspective! Read it HERE.
These are good... a little pricey, but good and somewhat healthy! Truth Bar
Great music with a hint of bluegrass from Nickel Creek Essentials.