Last Thursday I attended an informational presentation sponsored by Clemson University at the Westin-Poinsett. The topic was Values– Based Leadership. The discourse was between two professionals, one from BB&T, the other from REALeadership Alliance. The passion and insight with which they advanced their respective views was inspirational.
Of course, the first issue discussed was the economy. As I look around and see the greed that has become pervasive at all socio-economic levels of our society–everyone seemingly thinking s/he deserves bigger and fancier this or that–I realize that I have a tendency toward the same mentality. When we all live selfishly we tend to become proponents of short term fixes instead of implementing the tried and true basics of frugality and sustained effort it takes to incorporate real change and sustainable growth. Will Marre (REALeadership Alliance) said something most of us would agree with when we consider the long-term, “Life is not about material possessions. It is a spiritual journey.” Just as it is easy to become caught up in our penchant for consumerism, it can also be tempting to implement methods for revenue growth which jeopardize customer satisfaction. A sound and effective leader has the character and discipline to avoid the lust for short term profits at the cost of destroying long term relationships.
The common thesis of the evening was that values-based leadership practices create sustainable growth in the long run. Towards the end of the talk both men were asked what advice they would give to those listening. John Allison (BB&T) said, “Develop purpose, integrity, and passion.” And Will Marre replied with, “Become an expert at being you. Don’t be a generic human being.”
The impression one was left with was that people have the ability to change the world by doing what they are called to do. Leadership is about discovering what you are supposed to be doing and finding the best way you can accomplish it. Whether or not you think you are a leader, people will be watching.
I would love to hear some of your stories about people that have inspired you by their leadership or simply by fulfilling their calling…
