I just returned from the West Coast this morning. It was a great trip with many highlights – I met some cool people, heard some great speakers and got to hang out some with my son, Justin. One of the amazing places I visited was LA Live.
Today is a national holiday in America to honor the work, the impact and the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I was just a little kid when Dr. King was changing the face of our nation. I have vague memories of the conversations my parents and others were having during those tumultuous times in the south. Today, with decades to prove his lasting influence, the bright light of history has illuminated his many strengths – Dr. King was an amazing leader.
Jim Collins has had a profound impact on my leadership. Many of you know Jim from his books, Built to Last, Good to Great, etc. Of all Jim’s work, one of his ideas has been far more challenging, and haunting, to me than all the others.
I’m a big fan of Core Values. I believe that rightly used, they are one of the most powerful mechanisms at a leader’s disposal. Core Values are nothing more than the short list of beliefs that a leader articulates to guide the formation of the organization’s culture. Core Values should become the DNA of an organization. But first, there is a prerequisite…
Vision is perhaps the most misunderstood aspect of leadership. It is universally held as a critical element of successful leadership; yet as it is discussed, it is often shrouded in mystery and ambiguity. It doesn’t have to be this way. Vision rightly defined and understood is the cornerstone of great leadership and great accomplishment.