The 10 Commandments of Leadership

Today, I’m hosting The 10 Commandments of Leadership Blog Tour, by WalkTheTalk.com. For 10 days, 10 blogs are highlighting and discussing each of The 10 Commandments of Leadership.

Based on over sixty years of combined professional experience working with leaders in organizations of all types and sizes, “The 10 Commandments of Leadership”, written by Eric Harvey and Steve Ventura, provides a powerful collection of universal best-in-class leadership beliefs and behaviors. Regardless of if you are leading a large organization, a small group of peers, or your own family, these ideas will help you be the best leader you can be.

EXCERPTED from Chapter 7
“Confront Challenges with Courage”

Even the very best leaders must occasionally pass the courage test. The true measure of your leadership effectiveness is the ability to look in the mirror and know that you had the strength and courage to do what, deep down inside, you knew was the right thing to do. And it’s that very fact that leads to the seventh leadership commandment, Confront Challenges with Courage.

Courage is …
• Following your conscience instead of “following the crowd.”
• Taking action against hurtful or disrespectful behaviors.
• Sacrificing personal gain for the benefit of others.
• Speaking your mind even though others don’t agree.
• Taking complete responsibility for your actions … and your mistakes.
• Following the rules – and insisting that others do the same.
• Hiring and promoting people who are faster, smarter, and more talented than you are.
• Challenging the status quo in search of better ways.
• Facing setbacks and disappointments head-on – without losing your drive and spirit or adopting a victim mentality.
• Telling others what they need to hear rather than what they want to hear.
• Doing what you know is right – regardless of the risks and potential consequences.

Make us choose the harder right
instead of the easier wrong,
and never to be contented with half truth
when whole truth can be won.
Endow us with courage that is born
of loyalty to all that is noble and worthy,
that scorns to compromise with vice
and injustice and knows no fear
when right and truth are in jeopardy.

“Cadet Prayer” repeated during chapel services at the U.S. Military Academy.

Take Away …
Leadership is not for the faint of heart. Along with your title comes many awesome responsibilities – and an equal number of situations that can, and will, test your mettle. And one thing is for sure: Your effectiveness as a leader will be determined by how well you pass those tests … by how well you practice this seventh commandment of leadership.

QUESTION for Chapter 7
Share a time you had to use courage to confront a challenging situation? What (if any) interpersonal conflicts did you have to face in the process?

Now is your chance to win! Here’s how!

1. By 12 midnight (Eastern) tonight: Post your answer to the above question (as a comment) on this blog and your name will be entered into a drawing to receive a FREE copy of The 10 Commandments of Leadership. Your name will be entered into the drawing a second time if you send us a “tweet” by copying and pasting the following: @Leader_Solution I commented on Day 7 of The 10 Commandments Blog Tour

2. By 12 midnight (Eastern) on January 28: Post your answer to each day’s question (10 comments in total) for a chance to win a $100 Gift Certificate to WalkTheTalk.com. Be sure to click here to learn more about the book and see the schedule forThe 10 Commandments of Leadership Blog Tour,

Goofy Bob’s Creative Idea to Save Time and Money!

I just had dinner with my crazy friend, Bobby, and this is one of his ideas to spice up your life and get you out of some work. These are his suggestions for attending a Pot Luck, especially if you are in a time crunch, broke, or do not like to cook:

For those of you unfamiliar with the term, a “Pot Luck” is when everyone brings some kind of food dish to share with everyone else. All the dishes are put out on a long table, and people bring their plates and help themselves to whatever looks good to them. Some of you may think of it as a common man’s smorgasbord. Churches, offices, and associations have them to socialize, save money, and most of all, to share the work.

Anyway, Bobby says that when he is invited to a pot luck, he brings in his dish, ALWAYS covered, and conspicuously sets it on the table that way. There is usually lots of activity around the table, so no one really notices who brings what, just that you came in with a bowl.

Most people bring their “specialty” and take great pride in sharing their cooking skills with others. Bobby, on the other hand, brings a completely EMPTY dish! His reasoning is that there is always too much food, he is way too busy to make anything, and this way he never even has to wash the dish afterwards. He says that everyone going through the line sees the empty dish and thinks, “Wow! Whatever that was must have been really good because it is already gone!” Because he was seen coming in with a bowl, everyone thinks he has made a contribution, and so he is free to eat to his heart’s content.

At the end of the night, he proudly picks up his”popular” bowl and cover, leaving with a full tummy and a completely clean dish. What could be better than that????

(When he told me this, I laughed for ten minutes….not a bad idea, eh? 😉

My friend, Goofy Bobby!

To learn more about Barbara’s life and work, go to www.barbaraglanz.com.

The Gift of “Giving”

I am writing a new book on ideas of things we can give to one another that cost little or no money. Here are some of the easy, no-cost gifts you can give to others every day. Always remember that the most valuable gifts do not cost money, but come from the heart:

The gift of listening
—One of the greatest things we can do for another person is to just listen without interrupting, daydreaming or thinking about our next leap into the conversation.

The gift of a compliment
—A simple and sincere,”You look wonderful in blue,” “That was such a beautiful note,” “What a fantastic meal!” or “You always brighten my day whenever I see your smile” can make someone’s day.

The gift of showing affection
—Demonstrate how much you care for others with hugs, kisses, a gentle squeeze of the hand, a pat on the back, smiles.

The gift of laughter
—Everyone loves to laugh. Try to see the humor in day-to-day living and share it with others. Also develop the ability to laugh at oneself.

The gift of cheerfulness
—This means no complaining, no feeling sorry for ourselves, no nasty comments, no screaming. Our gift of cheerfulness will
be precious for everyone including ourselves.

The gift of doing a favor
—Help with the dishes, type a letter, run an errand. Every day go out of your way to do something kind for someone.

The gift of contact
—Write notes as simple as “thinking of you today”. Make phone calls, reach out with support.

The Gift of solitude
—There are times when we want nothing more than to be left alone. Be sensitive to those times and give the gift of solitude to others.

The gift of acceptance
—Accept with fortitude the things we can’t change. This gift makes a difference in the lives of your friends and family.

The gift of prayer
—The hidden gift. Let your friends and loved ones know you pray for them—and then do it!

Sometimes we give out of necessity, social custom, or habit. But at other times our giving is out of pure generosity and love, and the feeling that comes from this kind of giving fills the heart and soul with the utmost joy. May you all find special ways YOU can give to others this week.

Blessings,
Barbara

To learn more about Barbara’s books, go to www.barbaraglanz.com/products/books/

Whom do you remember?

Someone just sent me this, and it especially touched me in this beginning of a new year. Please take some time on your own to answer the last set of questions, and even better, call or write and let those people know you thought of them today. You will be giving them a priceless gift!

The following is the philosophy of Charles Schulz, the creator of the ‘Peanuts’ comic strip. You don’t have to actually answer these questions. Just ponder on them:

1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America pageant.
4 Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award winners for best actor and actress.
6. Name the last decade’s worth of World Series Winners.

How did you do? The point is, none of us remember the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They are the best in their fields. But the applause dies…. Awards tarnish…. Achievements are forgotten…Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners.

Here’s another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. List a few teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who have helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Jeff and Re on their boat.

Easier?

The lesson: The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials..the most money…or the most awards. They simply are the ones who care the most. How very blessed we are to have people in our lives who care for us! Now, think about those people for whom you care. Are you impacting their lives in meaningful ways? Start now by appreciating them.

Blessings,

To learn more about Barbara’s work and life, go to www.barbaraglanz.com

A New Year’s Prayer–“Surprise me again, Lord!”

I absolutely LOVE this time of the year when we slow down for a few days and spend time pondering the last year — the successes, the failures, the disappointments and struggles, the joys experienced, precious new people who have crossed our paths, old friends who have walked beside us for years, important lessons learned, and most of all, thankfulness for the GIFT of each day of life.

Every year I choose a theme for my year. Several years ago a friend shared this beautiful New Year’s prayer with me, and it became my theme for that year, “Surprise me again, Lord!” Every day when I would wake up, I would pray this short phrase. I must admit that some of the “surprises” were not ones I would have chosen; however, because of this focus, my eyes were opened to small blessings that I might have simply passed by in the busyness of our lives. Since then, I have tried to make these words an ongoing part of my life, and I keep a “Blessings Journal” filled with the people and experiences that have touched my life in such precious ways.

My grandchildren are my greatest blessing!

Whatever your belief may be, I hope you enjoy this prayer, and that your New Year will be overflowing with delightful surprises! There is a wonderful thought from William Winter, “As much of Heaven is visible as we have eyes to see.” May we all live 2011 with our heavenly eyes wide open!

Blessings,
Barbara

A NEW YEAR’S PRAYER

RESPONSE: “God, surprise us again.”

When we miss the beauty and joy of earth’s goodness…….(response)

When the goodness of others gets lost in the rush…….

When our frailty outruns our strength……

When the hope in our heart fades away……

When it seems the darkness will never give way to the light……

When even You seem far away……

RESPONSE: “Walk closely with us, God.”

As we strive to live our lives well…….(response)

As we journey into the unknown territory of a new year…….

As we learn to accept our weaknesses and our strengths……

As we stay faithful to our relationship with You……

As we open our hearts to the messengers You send to us……

As we accept Your constant love for us……

(Together)

God of this New Year, we are walking into mystery. We face the future, not knowing what the days and months will bring to us or how we will respond. Be Love in us as we journey. May we welcome all who come our way. Deepen our faith to see all of life through Your eyes. Fill us with hope and an abiding trust that you dwell in us amidst our joys and sorrows. Thank You for the treasure of our faith life. Thank You for the gift of being able to rise each day with the assurance of Your walking through the day with us. God of this New Year, we praise You.

Amen

What can I do to quickly raise morale in my workplace?

What can I do to quickly raise morale in my workplace? (Barbara Glanz)

A Beautiful Holiday Tradition

My friend, Michelle Dolieslager, shared this beautiful family tradition with me today:

My sister, Kelly, loves to make cards with all the “Stamping Up” materials she has collected over the years. Growing up Navy Brats and having spouses, family members, and friends who have served in all branches of the Military, my family has always been very supportive of and grateful for the men and women serving our Country. Several years ago, we decided to combine my sister’s passion for card making – and my family’s support of the Troops – into a Dolieslager/Kiem family tradition.

Each year, we make over 100 Holiday cards with Kelly’s never ending supply of stamps, ink, ribbons, glitter, cardstock, and our “artistic” talents. You can definitely see they are homemade J. Then on Thanksgiving Day, the Dolieslager/Kiem family (including my awesome 12 nieces and nephews ranging in age from 5 – 23 years) get together at my brother, Bryan’s, house and write special notes of thanks and support in the cards.

Jackson and Erin making the cards

My Dad served 26 years in the Navy – so my Mom, brothers – Steve and Bryan – and sister Kelly remember how hard it was to be separated from him for months at a time when we were growing up. Kelly’s husband, Bob, was in the Air Force and served during Desert Storm. My sisters in law, Marieska and Lori have family members who have served. This year, we were blessed to have Lori’s uncle Chris and his family join us for Thanksgiving. Chris is currently in the Army and has served in Iraq. He and Bob gave us first-hand insight into what it is like to receive support from others when so far away from home and loved ones.

Some of the cards the family made

It makes us proud to know that our small gesture of thanks is appreciated by those who receive the cards. So, once again, the signed cards will be included with a box of goodies – cookies, candy, toiletries – and mailed to a friend currently serving in Iraq. He will share our cards and treats with those serving by his side. It’s a simple Dolieslager/Kiem family tradition, but one I will always cherish!

All the nieces and nephews who worked on the cards

It is not too late to do something like this as a family this holiday season. Not only will it deeply touch the people in our armed forces and be a fun family sharing time, but it will also remind everyone of the many ways that we can chooose to make a difference for someone else . Isn’t that the whole theme of the holidays?

To experience more ideas of caring things you can do for one another, go to www. barbaraglanz.com/ideas.

Good Deeds DO Pay Off!

Since this is Thanksgiving week, I want to share a precious story with you, especially because in the busyness of our lives we sometimes forget how little things we do can make a difference. Every day I get about 200-300 email messages, and about 100 of those need some kind of response, so many days I feel completely overwhelmed, simply trying to keep up.

Several years ago, during a crazy busy time for me, I got one of those many email requests from a young woman working on her thesis on “Motivating and Retaining Employees.” She had found me on the internet and since this was my area of expertise, was requesting an interview. Now, honestly, in the tyranny of the urgent, the last thing I wanted to do that week was to spend time talking with someone who was “exploring” ideas and was not critical to my business; in fact, my first, ungenerous thought was to suggest to her to buy my books! So, I flagged the email and went on with my mountain of work.

Later that week my conscience was bothering me, so I finally called this young woman, even then with an attitude of “get through this quickly and get back to the piles on my desk.” Of course, she was delightful, and we had a lovely talk. I sent her several of my books and gave her access to a lot of research and material on my website that I normally do not share. She thanked me, and we both hung up feeling good.

As Paul Harvey would say, “Now for the rest of the story:” Last month I got a call from a young woman who said, “I am sure you do not remember me, but several years ago you helped me with information for my dissertation, and I have never forgotten your kindness. My paper was published and received high praise, thanks in part to your contributions.” She then went on to say that she was now the Executive Director of a large association on the East Coast and was wondering about my availability to be their opening keynote speaker for their annual conference in the spring of 2011. I was blown away that she even remembered me, and now she was offering me an opportunity to speak to her large clients from all over the state!

Oh, my, that call was another one of those “whacks on the side of the head” that caused me to stop and remember that we reap what we sow. How often do we all get buried by the business part of our work and forget those human level interactions that add such fulfillment and joy to our lives? I recently found a quote that touched me deeply: “Beware the barrenness of a busy life,” from Socrates!

In this time of giving thanks, I am so very grateful for the awesome opportunities we have every day to enhance the lives of others. May we all keep making a difference–and remember, good deeds DO pay off! Happy Thanksgiving!

Blessings,
Barbara

Johnny the Bagger® in Europe!

I recently received this email from a person in Europe sharing how she and KLM, Royal Dutch Airlines, are using my story of “Johnny the Bagger®” to inspire their clients and employees:

My dear Barbara,

In concordance with your ‘theme of the month,’ “Giving”, I would like to share something with you since with giving comes grace and gratitude to those who have given to you. You may not realize it, but you have given me so much with the story of “Johnny the Bagger®.”

The first gift was receiving the inspiration of your story of Johnny when I was acting as Chief Customer Officer on the European board of UPC Broadband, the European subsidiary of Liberty Global. The end result of that inspiration was that the reputation of the company made a 180 degree turnaround from worst to best in class in the telco & cable industry in Europe, not mentioning the bottom-line impact it also had! But to me, most gratifying was the fun and pride the customer service people had started to take in their jobs. They themselves were the ones who turned around a negative, self-fulfilling prophecy into a positive one, and Johnny definitely made a large contribution to that!

Now I use Johnny as an example almost daily. In 2008, as a practitioner, I published my book, “Customer Advocacy–When You Care, People Notice.” I mention Johnny in my book. A while back, I gave my book to a friend, who works as a captain for the Dutch Royal Airlines, KLM. I gave him the book to inspire him and help him understand how each employee can choose to make a difference for themselves, each other, and the passengers they serve.
As a result, he invented the “blue mouse” which has a positive connotation, opposed to the “gray mouse” which is negative, Blue is the signal color of KLM– the Dutch speak of “the blue feeling” as representing the emotional pride they have in KLM. A gray mouse, on the other hand, is a Dutch expression for an insignificant person nobody pays attention to.

Read More…

The Power of Five Pennies

This story was sent to me from Tammy Ramsay after I spoke in the Battlefords, Saskatchewan, Canada. I shared with them a simple strategy to remember to appreciate people every day: Put five pennies in your right pocket when you leave for work in the morning. Every time you thank someone, you move a penny from your right to your left pocket. You do not go home at night until all five pennies are in your right pocket. It is fun to share with your family and others the stories of whom you thanked.

Dear Barbara,

It was an absolute pleasure meeting you in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Canada. Your inspirational stories were wonderful, and I carry them close to my heart. I loved the 5 penny idea and have made it a personal quest of mine to act out each day. Already I see the hearts of those who are hurting smile when they see me walk their way, I often giggle inside in anticipation as I wait to act out my next penny move.

For example. last week I stopped in at a local grocery store to pick up a bouquet of fresh flowers for a wonderful lady I knew. There were only three tills opened and the line ups were honestly half way down the aisles. I overheard the cashiers talking that an employee had not shown up for his last shift. The older lady cashier that was running the line I was in was definitely over worked and stressed. She had forgot to give the gentleman ( I use the term loosely) his change and was so flustered by his rolling of the eyes that she needed a calculator to figure out she owed him three dollars.

By time I got up to the till her lovely eyes were swimming in tears. By that time, I had waited about 15 – 20 minutes in line. She rang me through and thanked me for shopping at the store. I then turned to her as she was about to start the next transaction and said, “Excuse me. I would like to tell you something.” You could have heard a pin drop. All the cashiers stopped what they were doing and looked over in wait of what they thought was going to be an explosion.

I then proceeded to take some fresh flowers out of the bouquet and hand them to her. I told her, “THANK YOU for doing such a great job getting me served quickly. I appreciate the stress you are under,” and then told her she had done a great job. Tears rolled down her face and a grin a mile wide covered that weathered face. As I walked out, I am sure I hard her humming as she worked!

I left with so much more than a bouquet of flowers. Thank you, Barbara! You gave me something so much more than a seminar. You gave me a hope in mankind, that we CAN change the world….. one penny at a time.

Who will you give your pennies to? Tell us your stories.

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