Thursday, March 29, 2012

Whose job is it?

The wise man must remember that while he is a descendant of the past, 
he is a "parent" of the future.
Herbert Spencer

With so much political news everywhere we turn, it's hard not to think about upcoming elections -- from local school board elections that will happen very soon to the "Big One" in the fall, we all have a duty to vote.  


However, with  that duty comes a responsibility to know the candidates, what they stand for, and where their major support lies throughout the community, state or nation.


When I think of our responsibility to find and vote for the best candidate for each office, I am reminded of a particularly balmy evening, several years ago, when I was with friends visiting the various national memorials in Potomac Park in Washington, D.C.


Early in the evening, my friends and I stood  in front of the Vietnam Veterans' Memorial Wall and I was moved to tears as a very dear friend of mine told me that on an earlier trip to D.C., her  young son stood and read the names of the soldiers lost in that war while listening to the sounds of the running water.  After a conversation with  her, and after listening to her description of the purpose of The Wall, he acknowledged his belief that the running waters in front of that memorial were symbolic of the tears shed for all those lost in the war. 


For one so young, he had an amazing grasp on the reality of the actual purpose of that memorial!


As the evening progressed, we walked by all the national memorials, stopping to remember family members and friends who had served and died in various wars....I will never forget the moment we stood in front of one particular statue at the Korean War Memorial that seemed to be a true artist's perception of the way my own father would have looked as he trudged into battle wearing his rain gear, wielding a combat rifle, ready to die for his country.


Later, during our continuing  tour of the park, I  found myself all alone in the Jefferson Memorial. As I looked around that beautiful hall, I was taken aback by the fact that in this busy city, surrounded by all the visitors to the park, including the group I was with, I stood alone. It was as if that moment in time was meant especially for me.  It seemed I could sense there was a purpose for my chance to have that time to absorb the immense greatness of the place I stood!


In the dim light of that memorial, I found myself studying the words of the inscriptions engraved upon the walls and under the dome of this beautiful monument...Words that had been penned by Thomas Jefferson during the birth of our nation. 


"...And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine providence, we mutually pledge our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor." 


During those quiet moments when I was literally alone with my thoughts, I  found myself coming to a point in time that some would call a "crisis of belief" where I had to stop and ask myself, "Who am I that I should do anything but serve in this great nation when so many have given so much more than I will ever be asked to give?"


Later, as I left the memorial and was visiting with my friends and colleagues who were visiting the park with our group that night, I was moved to tears to know that I was in the company of friends who felt, as I did, that we each have a responsibility to our children -- to our future -- to work diligently to stand for the good, the true, and the beautiful things life  has to offer.


That evening was the culmination of a thought process I had been reflecting on for many months. Because of  those moments of reverence and awe spent remembering those who have blazed the path for us,  I know  I left the beauty and reverence of Potomac Park that evening forever changed. 


I left  knowing that I would always feel a sense of pride and reverence for every military man or woman, as well as every public servant elected to represent the people of our great nation.


That said, I ask that you not consider time spent as an advocate for children, education and the well-being of our young people as "working for kids" -- rather, I ask that you consider  time spent on behalf of our children as an "investment"  in the future of our nation and in  better things to come for those who follow us.


I challenge you to find a cause that is beneficial for children and do what you can to further that mission!  I challenge you to do it now...you're already online reading this blog!  Google it! 


Look for a cause you're comfortable with that encourages or supports our kids and their education or well-being and get involved!


We truly are the "parents" of the future! 


Blessings to you and to your cause!


Sharon

Monday, March 26, 2012

Everyone needs one.....

"I always feel smarter after talking to Carter."
-- Me


Who do you think of when you think of the word "mentor"? 


A successful business man...an inspiring teacher...a true statesman...an inspiring leader... a family matriarch who is the fountain of family wisdom?


In Homer's The Odyssey, we see the  first use of the word "mentor" and it was actually the name of a man who was a "teacher" and "overseer" of Odysseus' son, Telemachus.     In The Odyssey, Mentor was a trusted friend and counselor...someone whose experience and success gave credence to his ability to teach.


Over the years, having a mentor has evolved into something deemed necessary for success in business, education, entertainment or virtually any other career.  Mentoring programs are commonplace because over the years it's been proven that a good way to learn how to do the thing that needs doing is to learn from someone who has done it before!


Years ago, I had a chance to begin watching  a man by the name of Carter Ward lead Missouri School Boards Association (MSBA)  as its Executive Director.  I began attending MSBA meetings as a locally elected school board member and through a desire to serve at a different level and an interest in working with the leaders of the association, I worked my way up to become one of four statewide elected officers of the association and was able to work closely with Dr. Ward and his staff.


One thing I have always admired about Dr. Ward is  his uncanny ability to find the right direction for Missouri School Boards Association.  I've always heard that managers do things right and leaders do the right things -- that statement seems to apply to virtually all the efforts of the association under his guidance. 



Throughout the years I have watched him set an example of leadership rivaled by none.  Whether it was through a difficult situation that required wisdom and discernment or a celebratory moment when it was time to simply enjoy a mission accomplished, I have watched him lead - not manage -- but truly lead our association.


As a result of his professional success,  inspirational advice, and his attitude of humble, servant leadership, I, and many others  have turned to Dr. Ward for guidance -- viewing him as mentor, colleague,  and friend.


As I embarked on a career as an executive director of a non-profit association, I found I relied heavily on the wise counsel and good advice of several leaders involved in the business, but when the time came for a difficult decision, or I found myself facing a monumental task, I found myself making a  call to this very wise mentor of mine.


As  time went on, I found that when tempted to let emotions like disappointment, fear, or even anger unduly influence a decision, I would always think back to a conversation I had with this trusted mentor late one evening as I worked into the night, struggling with a difficult decision.  


I had faced some rather overwhelming issues for a period of time and placed a call to Dr. Ward and left a somewhat desperate sounding voice message telling him I felt I had arrived at a  point where I simply did not know what to do!  


He returned my call, and after hearing me out, and listening to a very detailed description of the dilemma I felt I was facing, he said to me, very simply, "Sharon, I know you, and I know that you know what you're doing.  All you need to do is think it through, decide what's right, and do it!  There is never a wrong time to do the right thing!"


Think of that!  What if everyone of us ascribed to that simple, yet powerful idea?  


"There is never a wrong time to do the right thing!"


As you are faced with decisions in your personal and professional life, I challenge you to take the words of my trusted mentor to heart and find the right thing -- then do it!


Blessings,


Sharon



Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Let the words of my mouth.....

Lord, fill my mouth with worthwhile stuff and nudge me when I've said enough!
--unknown


I had to LOL when I saw this on a church sign on Grand Avenue the other day!  It's plain and simple language, maybe even a little irreverent, but it certainly provides food for thought!


I've often thought it would be much nicer if we all worked diligently on saying things that are true, helpful and encouraging!  Of course, there are times when the truth is painful, and can seem very negative, but what if every painful word spoken was  followed by a kind word? 


And, wouldn't it be great if the good Lord would give us a little "nudge" when that moment arrives that nothing else should be said? I have a very good friend who uses the acronym W.A.I.T. when he's involved in conversations with certain people, or in certain meetings.  


It stands for Why Am I Talking?  


Occasionally, I catch  myself rambling a bit and sounding a little wordy.  At those times, I've found it helps  to think of that simple little reminder -- W.A.I.T.!  


It gives others a chance to be more engaged in the conversation, and more importantly, it gives me a chance to settle in and be a good listener!


The next time you're in a class discussion, meeting, or just a friendly conversation give some consideration to the amount of time spent talking vs. listening.  And, as you focus on that, think about measuring your own words against my friend's advice!


Blessings!


Sharon



Sunday, March 18, 2012

Be prepared...

The way to prepare for the future is to invent it. 
John Scally


Many times, we are bound only by our thoughts of our own inability to get something done.  Most of us, at one time or another, feel subject to feelings of inadequacy. There are times when thinking about financial hardships, failing relationships or any number of other kinds of obstacles sends us into a mental "tailspin" and facing the next day's work, or the next encounter with someone who is antagonistic, or negative,  is just  too overwhelming to face!


As you look at the days, weeks, months, and years ahead, do you like what you see?  Do you have plans for tomorrow that will help you move closer to goals you've set for yourself for a year, or five years from now?


It's great to have someone helping you set goals, and it's great to set some basic goals such as exercise & diet plans, professional development, better relationships with family members and friends.  But, relying on goals that basically "belong"  to someone else leaves little room for your passion for achieving those goals to grow.  It leaves little room for the feeling of satisfaction when you accomplish something that will move you one step closer to the goal you've created for yourself!


I learned long ago that there's no one who knows my heart and my goals quite like I know them! Are you setting goals that can happen...goals that are attractive to you?  



As you think about your future, right now, in this very moment, plan something you would like to accomplish in the next 5 years.  Invent a picture of what your life can be professionally and personally!  Do so in vivid detail so you will have a clear picture!


You've invented your future!  I wish you all the best and I would love to hear about a new goal you've set for yourself!


Blessings,


Sharon







Friday, March 16, 2012

Don't give up now....

We must accept finite disappointment, but we must never lose infinite hope.
Martin Luther King


Bad things happen.  Good things that seem within reach slip out of reach.  Everyone has struggles in life.  There are times we struggle with disappointment, setbacks and even the end of what we were certain was a good thing.


When those bad things happen, or when something that seemed so right slips just out of reach, remember the words of Martin Luther King.  Face the disappointment.  Fix what you can and accept what you can't change.  Then spend some time reflecting on the circumstance.  


Get it ALL out of your system. It's okay to spend enough time on a problem to fix what you can.  Most importantly, it's okay to spend enough time on a problem to face the hurt, anger or disappointment.  Forgive when needed -- ask for forgiveness if necessary.


Once  you've accepted whatever responsibility you might have, and you've determined there's nothing else to be done, MOVE ON!  


I've always loved the Scripture in the Bible that says, (in Sharon's paraphrase) "There's a time for everything!"  If you would like to look that Scripture up and work on your own "paraphrase," you can find it in Ecclesiastes 3:1-15.  The words in this Scripture passage apply to everyone who is reading this blog, and to everyone who ever will read this blog, irregardless of spiritual beliefs!


My challenge to you is to think about the true wisdom of the words in that Scripture passage. Print it out right now and read it every day. Then follow  Mr. King's advice and fix your mind on the hope of the better day!


Have a great weekend!


Blessings,


Sharon

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Life is....

Life is what we make it, always has been, always will be.  
~Grandma Moses 


What are you "making" of your life?  What have you done today that may be considered  good, or kind by another?  More importantly, do the people you care about know you care and that you've thought of them fondly today? 


 Is there someone you should thank for a kindness shown to you or your family?


It's so very simple to become so busy, and wrapped up in schedules that time seems too fleeting to stop, take a few minutes to make a call, send an email or other kind of message to that friend, or family member you thought of earlier today... Maybe you heard a song, or ate a certain restaurant, or something silly happened to remind you of a particular time spent with that person.


I got the news a little while ago that a friend had met with a deadly accident.  It has caused me to stop and think about the last time I saw him--the last time I spoke with him and his wife.  When you get the news that a friend, or family member has suddenly been removed from the existence that is your life, it always takes a little while for reality to set in, to really register that you didn't get to say that one last thing, or ask that particular question you were sure to ask the very next time you were together. Sometimes, we find that all we really wanted a chance to say was "Thank you."


Practice being thankful and letting others know you are putting thankfulness at the top of your list of virtues to work on in the coming days or weeks.  Start by thinking of one, or two people right now, who have encouraged you along the way. Whether personally, spiritually, or professionally, that first person whose name just popped into your mind is special enough to warrant a "thank you" call or message.


If life is "what you make of it"  my challenge to you this day is to make your life a life of being faithful and thankful!  


Call...email...text....visit.  Let someone know you care.


Blessings,


Sharon

Saturday, March 10, 2012

The art of relaxing....

"Sometimes I sits and thinks, and sometimes I just sits." 

Satchel Paige




The weekend is here, the weather is cooperating and a gentle wind is sending the scents of Spring wafting through my open window.  I've had things I've had to get accomplished today, and I still have a few things that need to be done, but I am looking forward to having a little bit of true "down time" this weekend!



Everyone needs a little time to spend clearing their mind of the clutter of overwhelming tasks, bills to pay and a busy lifestyle!  


If you're able to get away and spend some time in a quiet place outdoors, try spending just 15 minutes taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of nature.  Enjoy the view...listen for the sounds of birds singing...breathe in the aroma of the breeze. 


Think about creation. 


Think about the people you love.


Sit and think...or, in the words of the beloved Satchel Paige, "just sit".


Enjoy your down time!


Blessings,


Sharon

Thursday, March 8, 2012

I need a plan!!!

I find it fascinating that most people plan their vacation 
with better care than they do their lives.
Perhaps that is because escape is easier than change. 

Jim Rohn



Every leadership book, magazine and webinar we read tells us we must set goals.  We've all learned about setting S.M.A.R.T. goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound.


So many times we "set" our goals then tuck them away into the flap inside the cover of our planner and pull them out only when the little pocket gets so full of notes and brochures that the cover won't snap shut!


It's very easy to say, "I've set my goals, written them down and now I'm ready to move on!"


The question  you must ask is, "What am I willing to do -- what kind of changes am I willing to make to realize the accomplishment of my goals?" 


Mr. Rohn is absolutely right!  We plan so carefully for vacations --  we make reservations, get confirmations, make multiple lists, purchase vacation clothes, research motels and attractions and try to plan for every possible scenario. I know of people who set a countdown timeline for when things need to be accomplished to make a vacation possible!


Yet, when it comes to our careers, and even the well-being of our family, we forget to really get a plan together!  

Spend some time  thinking about your goals -- personal and professional, then make a plan.   Once the plan is made, take the necessary steps to "work" your plan!

Your family, your relationship with your friends,  and your career deserve the special kind of planning it takes to make any changes needed!  From simple changes like getting up an hour earlier to more complicated ones like getting additional training, or meeting with a life coach to work on relationships, it's a worthwhile investment to  spend time planning for your whole life - not just the escapes!


Blessings!


Sharon






Sunday, March 4, 2012

Give it your best shot....

"If a man is called to be a street sweeper, 
he should sweep streets even as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, 
or Shakespeare composed poetry. He should sweep streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth will pause to say, 'Here lived a great street sweeper who did his job well.'" 
---Martin Luther King, Jr.


Is facing Monday and a new week exciting for you?  Do you look forward to what the new week will bring?  


No matter what you will be doing Monday morning, it's good to make up your mind ahead of time that you will be doing it with gusto! 


 It's great if you have a career, or a job you love, but even if you're not exactly where you want to be,  you can make your week better by facing the beginning of each new week with a determination to focus on positive, uplifting things.  You can resolve to give your best effort to each new task or project, and you can be a person who touches someones life in a very real way by giving your best in every circumstance.


I was reminded this past week that life is short and not one of us knows what the future holds. When I think of some of the projects and tasks I have planned  for the upcoming weeks in the light of that thought, I realize I must commit to getting those things accomplished and doing my very best in every area of my life.


Whether it's personal, or professional, each task should be given its time.  Every part of your life should have time devoted to it to make certain things are  in order -- that responsibilities are given proper consideration and that time is given to your family and friends.  


True rest  comes at the end of the day when you know that you have set about completing each new task as if you were Beethoven composing a beautiful symphony or Michelangelo creating another masterpiece. Contentment and peace come when  you have taken time to invest in good relationships with your family and friends. 


Give it your best shot!  You'll be glad you did!


Blessings,


Sharon

Friday, March 2, 2012

Who are you?


“Tension is who you think you should be. Relaxation is who you are.”
Chinese Proverb

The weekend is upon us and I am looking forward to that rare Saturday morning when I can spend my time doing everything I want to do, or nothing at all.  I am in control of my Saturday morning!  

Most of us spend a lot of time being who we think we should be, and that takes a lot of energy - mental and physical! We all need to have that "down time" when we can really get comfortable, kick back, enjoy our favorite things and truly relax. 


Rest is healing.  Doctors tell us to rest when we're ill, counselors tell us to rest when we're stressed and athletes know that without proper rest, their bodies will not perform at optimum levels.


Rest is underrated in this "hurry up" world we live in, so take some time this weekend and spend enough time resting that you're able to really think about who you are -- not just what you think you  should be doing!


Blessings,


Sharon


Thursday, March 1, 2012

It's time to clear your desktop....

"Besides the noble art of getting things done, there is the noble art of leaving things undone.  
The wisdom of life consists in the elimination of non-essentials." 
Lin Yutang


I spent an entire morning last week clearing off the top of my desk, including my vertical file caddy filled with files with labels like Action File, Board of Directors' Agenda, Current Projects and others with similar "get-it-done-style" names!


It seems, that in our world of multi-tasking and constant interruptions, it's easy to end up with a stack of files needing attention, a list of phone calls to return, and a "to-do" list with priorities that we actually keep moving to a new list because we are unable to finish them throughout the course of a normal day!


While it seems to be a very good idea to track a "to-do" list, many people spend so much time organizing and tracking their lists, they end up with no time to accomplish the task at hand!


I have to wonder, if something is an "A" priority and it doesn't get checked off the list for days on end, was it ever really deserving of the "A" status?  


A lengthy "to-do" list can be very overwhelming, and wearing on the mind, so take a look at your list and be honest with yourself.  Divide the list into sections, or organize by categories,  then eliminate the unnecessary tasks.


A very good friend of mine once told me her secret of going to bed each night with every task of the day completed.  She had discovered, after being diagnosed with cancer that her priorities looked very different when she held them up to the light of what would be truly important in her world. As a result, she would sit down each night and write down everything she had accomplished that day.  When the list was finished, she would then place a check mark by each finished task.  In her words, "You always remember to do the really important things, and I've learned that going to sleep at night knowing everything on my list is checked off, helps me relax, sleep better and be more rested for what the new day will bring."


So clean off your desk. Delegate when needed. Eliminate if necessary!  


Blessings,


Sharon