http://www.audible.com/pd/Business/The-Secret-Audiobook/B002V57VE0/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1379409082&sr=1-2
The Secret, is a really good book that talks about the secret of great leadership in some easy to follow steps and, with a simple change in philosophy (taking on a servitude attitude) is something that we all can and should develop.
Author, Ken Blanchard breaks down his Secret approach to leadership in these simple steps.
S.E.R.V.E
S = seeing the vision
- Leaders need to have a vision of where they’re going, how they’re going to get there and how effectively they can communicate the vision to the team
E = engaging and empowering the team
- Blanchard talks about how we can and should “engage the hearts… and not the hands/skills” of our teams that we work with. Also, we need to empower people to do and be the best they can be
R = reinventing yourself
- It I important to reinvent yourself and “refresh” your approach to how you operate your business and treat your team. Things change, and it’s important for all of us to keep up with the changes
V = Valuing your relationships
- Relationships are key. They are to be cherished and valued at the highest level. Again, things and people (their situations and needs) are always changing, so if you have a meaningful relationship with the team members, then you’ll be able to bring added value to your team and team member.
E = embodying your values
- Be clear about what your values are and if the team is living up to it. Take the time from time to time in updating team/business/relationship values as new members come onboard, dynamics change of you as a leader change
I thought that this book really helped clarify why us purposeful leaders do what we do. I’m glad that I was able to read it and learn so much about what more that I can do in order to continue trying to be the best leader that I can be.
James Donaldson is a Washington State University graduate (’79). After an outstanding basketball career with WSU, he went on to play professional basketball in the NBA with the Seattle Supersonics, San Diego/L.A. Clippers, Dallas Mavericks, New York Knicks, and Utah Jazz. He also played for several teams in the European Leagues in Spain, Italy, and Greece, and he toured with The Harlem Globetrotters to wrap up his career. James was an NBA All-Star in 1988 while playing center for the Dallas Mavericks. In 2006, James was inducted into the Pac-10 Sports Hall of Fame and also the Washington State University Athletic Hall of Fame. In 2010, James was elected as a board member for the NBA Retired Players Association.
James frequently conducts speaking engagements (motivational, inspirational, educational) for organizations, schools, and youth groups.
In 2010, James was the recipient of the NBA Legends of Basketball ABC Award, awarded for outstanding contributions in Athletics–Business–Community.
He believes in being a role model for success and professionalism to the scores of young people to whom he devotes so much of his time. He currently serves on several boards and committees and is a member of many organizations.
James believes in developing relationships that create a “Win-Win” environment for everyone involved, and in being the best he can be!
For more information about James Donaldson or to request he speak at your event, contact him at:
www.StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
JamesD@StandingAboveTheCrowd.com
1-800-745-3161 (voicemail & fax)
James Donaldson is the author of “Standing Above The Crowd” and “Celebrating Your Gift of Life” and founder of the Your Gift of Life Foundation which focuses on mental health awareness and suicide prevention, especially pertaining to our school aged children and men.
If you’re interested in having James come and speak to your group of young adults, business entrepreneurs, aspiring political and community leaders, and athletic teams, please contact him at jamesd@yourgiftoflife.org and or leave a personal message for him at 1-800-745-3161. Keep up with him and read about how he is reaching out and making a difference in the lives of so many around the world at www.yourgiftoflife.org
