CHARLESTON AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. –
"I wish to have no connection with any ship that does not sail fast, for I intend to go in harm's way." -- Admiral John Paul Jones
"I offer neither pay, nor quarters, nor provisions; I offer hunger, thirst, forced marches, battles and death. Let him who loves his country in his heart and not with his lips only, follow me." -- Giuseppe Garibaldi
What values do you hold? What things define you? How do you express them? Read the two quotes above and you'll know in part my character, my core and my heart. The purpose of this article is to pose the question to each reader, "Who are you and who knows?"
In today's fast paused "do more with less" sound bite world, we must transmit our messages quickly, congruently and constantly. Quotes can help us define, remind and articulate who we are.
You have heard it before, but I'll say it again -- leadership has nothing to do with position, rank or title and everything to do with action. Everyone is a leader; what kind of leader are you? What makes you tick? Do those you lead know?
To be effective leaders at work, at home or in the community, we have to first know what our values are. This is the easy part for most people. Ask someone if they like this or that and most people can tell you right away. Ask if they support an issue or not and they will let you know. Ask what defines them and there will most likely be a pause. Leaders must know and be able to clearly articulate their thoughts and beliefs.
So, how can we clarify and articulate what defines us? Think about the "words of wisdom" you have heard or read throughout your life. My mother used to say, "can't never could." The message was to believe in yourself and go at the task before you with a positive mental attitude and perseverance and you can do anything in life you set your mind to. My mother understood that's a lot of word for an 8-year-old to digest and comprehend so she would just say, "can't never could."
A few lines or words are about all most people have the time for these days. A lot of smarter people than me have said a lot of things better than I could ever say to them. Use other's words to help define your character. Take time every week to read something that refocuses you on your goals, dreams and values. A book of quotes broken down by category is a great tool and can help you find the exact words to express your core values and principles.
Awe inspiring words have motivated millions throughout the years from muddy battle fields in distant lands to the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, and from small classrooms to your kitchen table growing up. The sources are endless. Reflect on words you have read or heard that served to shape your life and beliefs -- the words that define you. Then quote those words to let the world know where you stand.
What values do you hold, what things define you, and how do you express them? Who are you and who knows? Use the wiser words of those who have came before to clearly define, remind and articulate who you are as leader.