Awareness is an absolute must in the equation for a good leader. An aware leader knows where the need for leadership exists and takes the necessary steps to meet that need. Another aspect of awareness in a leader is the realization that everyone has different capabilities. Simply put, there are some things a person isn't as good at. A true leader realizes their strengths and looks for opportunities to use those strengths.
In our community there are many leaders some public and some less known. Atchison has been gifted with many great leaders that have made this town a place to call home. The city has a local government which works to make Atchison a safe and comfortable place to live. There are many in the community that we have seen that serve the community as well. The United Way, The Benedictine Sisters, and many others have a strong impact on our community in the most positive of ways.
To most effectively be aware to meet the need for leadership a transformational mentality is needed. When coaching leaders, I always point out the dangers of comparing themselves to previous leaders in the same position. This is especially a danger is the previous leader accomplished very little. It is very easy to go beyond someone who did not accomplish much. This can set the stage for mediocrity and failure.
Rather than compare to other leaders, I recommend observing many different leaders and noting their positive attributes, then make an effort to go beyond what they have done and achieve a new level of effectiveness.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Trash Bash
I have heard nothing, but good comments about our project!
I am so glad to have been a part of such a good thing that
happened in our community! I hope it is continued on and
more people get involved!
I am so glad to have been a part of such a good thing that
happened in our community! I hope it is continued on and
more people get involved!
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Swine Flu or H1N1 Virus
As of today there seems to be an effort to change the name of the instantly infamous "Swine Flu". Both Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack now insist the that this possible pandemic now be attractively labeled "H1N1 Virus", as a way to protect pigs; well not to protect pigs but rather to make sure they are still being eaten. The virus actually has a stronger link to an avian component.
Beyond the bickering of the newly named H1N1 Virus, there are many different complexities. Many around the world are fearing that globalisation is leading to the rapid spread of sickness such as the H1N1 Virus. While I have never considered sickness and disease arguments for protectionism, a primary concern is raised. Are countries doing the right thing to combat this illness? We cannot yet know this answer.
It is clear that there is a global effect from this virus that, by many accounts, originated near Mexico City. Yesterday, the NYSE declined because of fears of massive flu pandemic. Many countries are recommending that travelers avoid both Mexico and the US. This is sure to hurt travel related business in affected areas. The potential effects on the global economy could be very damaging.
On a global scale this virus must be addressed. But more specifically it is national, state, and local governments that have to work together to ensure that a community is prepared to deal with a potentially massive outbreak of the flu.
On our very own local scale, it is vital that the Atchison community have a plan in place. In times of fear and stress leadership is needed more than ever before. There is a need for community leaders to take a proactive approach to have a plan in place.
As of today there seems to be an effort to change the name of the instantly infamous "Swine Flu". Both Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack now insist the that this possible pandemic now be attractively labeled "H1N1 Virus", as a way to protect pigs; well not to protect pigs but rather to make sure they are still being eaten. The virus actually has a stronger link to an avian component.
Beyond the bickering of the newly named H1N1 Virus, there are many different complexities. Many around the world are fearing that globalisation is leading to the rapid spread of sickness such as the H1N1 Virus. While I have never considered sickness and disease arguments for protectionism, a primary concern is raised. Are countries doing the right thing to combat this illness? We cannot yet know this answer.
It is clear that there is a global effect from this virus that, by many accounts, originated near Mexico City. Yesterday, the NYSE declined because of fears of massive flu pandemic. Many countries are recommending that travelers avoid both Mexico and the US. This is sure to hurt travel related business in affected areas. The potential effects on the global economy could be very damaging.
On a global scale this virus must be addressed. But more specifically it is national, state, and local governments that have to work together to ensure that a community is prepared to deal with a potentially massive outbreak of the flu.
On our very own local scale, it is vital that the Atchison community have a plan in place. In times of fear and stress leadership is needed more than ever before. There is a need for community leaders to take a proactive approach to have a plan in place.
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