Podcasts about summit leaders

If the burden of life feels too heavy to handle, maybe you're carrying something you were never meant to carry alone. Joël Malm is the founder of Summit Leaders where he uses outdoor adventure and leadership coaching to help people find their calling and pursue a vision for their lives. His expeditions have taken him around the world to places like Mt. Kilimanjaro, Grand Canyon and Machu Picchu. He has traveled in over seventy countries on six continents and speaks three languages. He holds a B.A. in Political Science and an M.S. in Counseling. Joel helps us identify why we carry too much, implement boundaries and balance, and understand how to prioritize what matters most. Joelmalm.com

Tune in to also hear from a wide range of panelists, including Dr. Shannon Chan, who volunteered at Médecins Sans Frontières; pilot Christina Ho; Angel Cheung, General Manager at Dah Chong Hong; and Terry Tsang, Co-Founder and CEO of Mad Head Limited (maker of Tower of Saviors). Moderator : Ms. Secy Cheung ,Legal and Compliance Advisor at JYC Girls Impact Foundation Just like our teen Summit participants, you, too, will leave feeling inspired by our trailblazers and their stories! Head to News & Events to listen to the podcast!

At JYC Girls Impact Foundation's second annual #FutureGEN23, teen girls heard from trailblazers in diverse fields! Now you, too, can hear their takes in this latest podcast episode!

Hello, this is your daily dose of news from Onmanorama. Tune in to get updated about the major news stories of the day.

The Guys Like Us is joined with Joel Malm who is an author, life coach, and founder of Summit Leaders. In this episode we hear about the adventures that God takes us literally and spiritually! Joel has been to many countries and briefs us on the journeys he goes on with leaders. Sometimes we don't fully understand where we are or where we are going but God has a plan, and has had a plan since the beginning. His latest book “Connecting the Dots” is available where books are sold! Subscribe to the Guys Like Us newsletter for the latest updates at www.theguyslikeus.com

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Joy. This one emotion has an enormous impact on a person's ability to endure, gain new strength, and develop the power to overcome all life's challenges. Can you recall a time when you experience joy?   This emotion makes life worth living in the moment because it resonates with our core identity. It is associated with feelings of ease, appreciation, gratitude, and meaning. A group of Summit Leaders meets on "Victory Day by Day - Joyful Friday!"The group shares one thing they are grateful for that day and shouts of appreciation to their teammates for an action, comment, or success. They look and listen as their teammates share their joyful moments.  "To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with." Mark Twain Their sharing lifts their mood, boosts their energy, and brings smiles to their faces! Neuroscience calls this the Dopamine effect, known as the feel-good neurotransmitter, a chemical that ferries information between neurons. The brain releases it when we experience joy.   Sharing joy helps regulate movement, learning, and emotional responses to life's challenges. "I always feel good after our Joyful Fridays!" Summit Leader The connective power of joy is visible in sports. When a team performs at its best, overcoming its challenges, every player — indeed, the entire arena — experiences an overflow of joy that lifts the team even higher.  Joy is a multiplier in our ability to endure and the strength to perform. I recall two quotes highlighting the effects of joy "... for the joy set before him he endured," and "joy... is your strength." Gratitude can ignite our joy. Being grateful creates a mindset for resiliency, strength, and victory. Counting our blessings cultivates, stirs our emotions, and positions us to win the battles of life and career. "The king rejoices in Your strength.  How great is his joy in the victories you give!"  King David Everyone in every walk of life can be a force for good through their response of gratitude with joy! How can we cultivate the emotion of joy for life and career and experience endurance, strength, and victories? Start each day by writing down several things you are most grateful for in your life and career. Think about them for a few minutes. Let your mind replay them throughout the day and replenish your joy. Keep asking for joy, seeking it, knocking on the door, and you will find it! Research indicates that cultivating this habit of dispositional gratitudeincreases our state of joy over time.  Please remember to share your joy with others. Joy is contagious. "Got joy?" Be glad and enjoy your days and your work. "A joyful heart is good medicine." Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders.If anyone leads, let them do so with diligence.Leaders that connect, uplift, engage, and make an impact always have four key attributes.They are diligent. They lead.They care.They win.In his book, Lead. Care. Win. - How to Become a Leader Who MattersDan Pontefract points out that successful leaders make themselves relatable, practice humility, and show care and respect for the people they lead and serve.Here are some insights that he emphasizes. They describe some of the best leaders I know and the ones who made the most impact on my life and career.Leaders who are transparent, honest, and caring inspire collaboration and teamwork.Pontefract encourages us to embrace transparency and honesty in all our relationships and extend empathy to those we lead and serve.A Summit Leader shared his observations on his journey over the last eighteen months. He is engaging clients with this mindset and gaining momentum for the outcomes we want together with our clients.He diligently shows himself approved by clients through study, knowledge, wisdom, and grace. He is confidently focusing on meeting the desires of his clients. "You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." page 27, Atomic Habits - James Clear."You have a responsibility to think about and define what you are working toward and the impact you might make." - Dan Pontefract.Our belief that clients will enjoy freedom and security from IBM's approach allows us to embrace change as the constant."Your capacity for growth and role success is commensurate with your willingness to embrace change because, within change, there is the opportunity." Dan PontefractWe look not only at our interests but also at the interests and outcomes of others. The win is the outcome.Caring for others is a vital part of flourishing during change.• Conviction reminds us that we are here for such a time as this.We can keep going when the battle is complex and challenging.• Authenticity allows us to be transparent. We are not afraid to admit our failures, not knowing all the answers but are still committed to the best outcomes. • Responsibility helps us see that our success means freedom and security for those we are helping.• Enthusiasm empowers us to keep believing and lifting others as we go. We believe that our work matters to those we serve. The outcomes are well worth the effort required to finish what we start. Keep on asking. Keep on believing. Keep on seeking the best. Leaders sacrifice selfish ambitions by lifting others, sharing their knowledge, and collaborating for the best results. "Sharing is at the very heart of leading." Dan Pontefract.A great benefit is you feel good! Giving away information and knowledge to help others will release dopamine and oxytocin hormones. (They're the kind of hormones that make you feel good.) Lead Care Win by Dan PontefractWe will reap what you sow, more than you sow, and later than you sow."We're all working together; that's the secret." - Sam Walton, Founder of Wal-Mart.Victory!

Bill Bunkley talks with Joël Malm, founder of Summit Leaders, about his book, Connecting the Dots: What God is Doing When Life Doesn't Make Sense.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes life is just a struggle. Nothing makes sense and when it does you are usually trying to figure out why things happen the way they do. At some point, you most likely will ask the question, “Where is God in all of this?"In the midst of transition or perhaps even a loss, it can feel impossible to imagine how God is working all things together for good like that Scripture verse in Romans tells us.Author Joel Malm has experienced challenging seasons throughout his life and he too has struggled with understanding why things happen the way they do.In his new book, “Connecting the Dots: What God is Doing When Life Doesn't Make Sense”, Malm teaches readers how to recognize the circular pattern of God's work in their lives and how to embrace each unknown that confronts you. His hope is to help us realize that each unknown in our lives is really a crucial part of our redemption story.Malm speaks from experience. As the President of Summit Leaders, he has traveled to 70 different countries. And living in some of the world's most dangerous places has taught him to embrace the unexpected and navigate the tumultuous times that just don't seem to make sense.Malm joins us on the Crossmap Podcast to talk about the new book, the circular nature of time and what that means to individuals. Listen as Joel shares why God sometimes places us in uncomfortable situations and how you can take your wounds and shape them into your message.Links to Joel Malm Joel's Website Connecting the Dots - Book Links to Crossmap Crossmap Website Crossmap Facebook

Hey BFF, are you struggling to peace in the midst of these trying times? It's completely understandable. It can be tough to keep your head above water when everything around you seems to be falling apart. But don't you worry, we're all in this together, and we'll get through it.   Today, we're sitting down with Joël Malm is the founder of Summit Leaders, where he uses outdoor adventure and leadership coaching to help people find their calling and pursue a vision for their lives. His expeditions to places like Mount Kilimanjaro, the Grand Canyon, and Machu Picchu have taken him to more than seventy countries on six continents. He holds a bachelor's degree in political science and a master's degree in counseling. Fluent in three languages, Joël speaks at churches, conferences, and corporate events nationwide and is the author of Vision Map (Moody Press, 2014), Fully You, Love Slows Down (Salem Books, 2020), and Guided by Thunder. He lives with his wife and daughter in Texas.   Learn •Does God ever put us in uncomfortable situations on purpose? •How do we discern the voice of God? •How does telling our stories relate to becoming a living sacrifice?   Connect with Joël Malm: Website: JoelMalm.com Purchase Connecting the Dots  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joelmalm YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/joelmalm Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joelrmalm   Connect with Heather Pettey: Heather@HeatherPettey.com Website: https://www.heatherpettey.com  

The founder of the adventure-based leadership-oriented ministry, Summit Leaders, Joel Malm, discussed some of the concepts on which he elaborates in his book, Connecting the Dots: What God is Doing When Life Doesn't Make Sense. You can find him online at joelmalm.com. 

The founder of the adventure-based leadership-oriented ministry, Summit Leaders, Joel Malm, discussed some of the concepts on which he elaborates in his book, Connecting the Dots: What God is Doing When Life Doesn't Make Sense. You can find him online at joelmalm.com. 

[廣東話] Industry leaders are gathered to discuss how technology has changed the way we design, view, and impact art as well as next-gen technologies. Speaker Dr. Richie Chan, Head of Aesthetics, OT&P Healthcare; Mr. Chris Cheung, Creative Director, XCEPT; Ms. Zaf Chow, Director of Digital Strategy and Partnerships, Animoca Brands; Moderator: Ms. Sara, MaoVice President, Christie's Education APAC **The views, comments and opinions expressed by the hosts and guest speakers in this Podcast session are personal views of their own and do not reflect the views nor positions of CTF Education Group. CTF Education Group makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy, reliability, completeness of such views, comments and opinions. 本節目內主持及嘉賓之意見、言論及主張純屬個人意見，並不代表周大福教育集團之意見或立場。周大福教育集團並不就上述意見、言論及主張的準確性、可靠性或完整性作出任何陳述或保證。

[廣東話] Industry leaders are gathered to discuss how technology has transformed their industry and how they used COVID as an opportunity to advance and breakthrough from a traditional business. Speakers Ms. Yenn Wong, Founder & CEO, JIA Group; Mr. Timothy Yu, Founder & CEO, Snapask; Ms. Cinci Leung, Founder & CEO,  CheckCheckCin; Moderator: Ms. Jennifer MaGroup Chief Strategy Officer, CTF Education Group **The views, comments and opinions expressed by the hosts and guest speakers in this Podcast session are personal views of their own and do not reflect the views nor positions of CTF Education Group. CTF Education Group makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy, reliability, completeness of such views, comments and opinions. 本節目內主持及嘉賓之意見、言論及主張純屬個人意見，並不代表周大福教育集團之意見或立場。周大福教育集團並不就上述意見、言論及主張的準確性、可靠性或完整性作出任何陳述或保證。

[Englsih] Industry leaders are gathered to discuss the definition of being future ready, advice for success, and their testimonies of enhancing their businesses with research and innovation. Speakers Professor Ava Kwong,Daniel C K Yu Professor in Breast Cancer Research and Clinical Professor with Chief of Division of Breast Surgery, The University of Hong Kong; Ms. Betty Ng,Founder and Director, Collective Studio; Ms. Cindy Chow,Executive Director, Alibaba Hong Kong Entrepreneurs Fund; Mrs. Jennifer Yu Cheng,Founder of Jennifer Yu Cheng Girls Impact Foundation; Dr. Sharmini Chetwode,Managing Director, Global Investment Research, Asia Pacific Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C.; Moderator: Ms. Yvonne ManBloomberg TV Anchor, Bloomberg L.P. **The views, comments and opinions expressed by the hosts and guest speakers in this Podcast session are personal views of their own and do not reflect the views nor positions of CTF Education Group. CTF Education Group makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy, reliability, completeness of such views, comments and opinions.

[廣東話] Industry leaders are gathered to discuss how to identify a need in the world and turn it into a business idea that can also contribute to a more sustainable future. Speakers Mr. Daniel Yeung,Co-Founder & CEO, Smart Farming Hong Kong Ltd.; Ms. Cally Chan, MH,General Manager, Microsoft Hong Kong and Macau; Ms. Winnie Chiu, JP, President & Executive Director, Dorsett Hospitality International; Moderator: Ms. Secy Cheung,Legal and Compliance Advisor, Jennifer Yu Cheng Girls Impact Foundation **The views, comments and opinions expressed by the hosts and guest speakers in this Podcast session are personal views of their own and do not reflect the views nor positions of CTF Education Group. CTF Education Group makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy, reliability, completeness of such views, comments and opinions. 本節目內主持及嘉賓之意見、言論及主張純屬個人意見，並不代表周大福教育集團之意見或立場。周大福教育集團並不就上述意見、言論及主張的準確性、可靠性或完整性作出任何陳述或保證。

[廣東話] Industry leaders are gathered to discuss important lessons as an entrepreneur, new consumer behaviors, and the usage of data-driven insights and innovation to connect with consumers and influence business. Speakers Ms. Eva Yu, President & Managing Director, L'Oréal Hong Kong; Ms. Juliette Gimenez, Co-Founder & CEO, Goxip; Ms. Kim Leitzes, APAC Managing Director, Launchmetrics; Moderator: Ms. Colleen Yu, Founder and Principal, EX-R International “The views, comments and opinions expressed by the hosts and guest speakers in this Podcast session are personal views of their own and do not reflect the views nor positions of CTF Education Group. CTF Education Group makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy, reliability, completeness of such views, comments and opinions. 本節目內主持及嘉賓之意見、言論及主張純屬個人意見，並不代表周大福教育集團之意見或立場。周大福教育集團並不就上述意見、言論及主張的準確性、可靠性或完整性作出任何陳述或保證。”

[ENG] Industry leaders are gathered to discuss the definition of being future ready, advice for success, and their testimonies of enhancing their businesses with research and innovation. Speakers Mrs. Jennifer Yu Cheng, Founder of Jennifer Yu Cheng Girls Impact Foundation, Ms. Irene Lee, Chairman of Hysan Development Company Limited, Professor Nancy Y. Ip, President and The Morningside Professor of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Moderator: Ms. Jacqueline Tsang, Editorial Director & Editor-in-Chief, Hong Kong, Tatler Asia **The views, comments and opinions expressed by the hosts and guest speakers in this Podcast session are personal views of their own and do not reflect the views nor positions of CTF Education Group. CTF Education Group makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy, reliability, completeness of such views, comments and opinions.

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Joël Malm is the founder of Summit Leaders where he uses outdoor adventure and leadership coaching to help people find their calling and pursue a vision for their lives. His expeditions have taken him around the world to places like Mt. Kilimanjaro, Grand Canyon and Machu Picchu. He has traveled in over seventy countries on six continents and speaks three languages. He holds a B.A. in Political Science and an M.S. in Counseling. He speaks at churches, conferences, and corporate events around the country and is the author of Vision Map (Moody Press, 2014), Fully You, and Love Slows Down (Salem/Regnery, 2020) and Guided by Thunder. He and his wife Emily and daughter Elise currently live in Texas. In this episode you'll learn: 1.  Necessary vs Unnecessary suffering and finding meaning in suffering. 2.  A concept called "Vision Mapping". 3.  How to change your perspective. 4.  What to do when you don't know what you want to do (as it relates to your profession). To connect with Joel: Instagram Facebook Podcast To connect with Kyle: Instagram LinkedIn Bucket-List Guys Trips Text "trip" to 763-294-8100 to learn more about Guys Trip!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Each of us will face many decisions on our journey in life and career.When standing at the crossroads and seeking which direction, we can find the confidence to make the best choice.   You may be facing what seems impossible. You may feel weary, and the prospects seem dim.  Be encouraged because we can walk by faith and not by sight.   Someone asks, "Is there a process for choosing the right way?"Yes, by asking ourselves four key questions while waiting, reflecting on past victories in similar situations until we sense direction within our heart, saying, "this is the way; walk in it." Stop at the crossroads, look, and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is; and walk in it, and you will find rest for yourself.  The key questions are:1. Does this pathway align with my purpose in life and career?2. Does this choice I am making support my vision and purpose as a leader?3. Will the path challenge me to exercise my faith?4. Will this road help me grow as a leader? Today, let's focus on the benefits of the process. 1. Discernment on the right path. We gain a fresh perspective by taking time to seek wisdom and insight.2. Conviction. We receive assurance that the road we are choosing is the right one.3. Courage. We gain new strength and boldness to take the next step forward to victory.4. Confidence. Our mind envisions the possibilities and outcomes ahead. We experience enthusiasm and resolve to do what's right. Remember the runner. You now see the end from the beginning. Now we are positioned to lead others with optimism, energy, and power gained through our process. We affect those around us positively through our speech, conduct, and attitude. We empower our family, friends, colleagues, clients, and all we serve.  We use our gifts, talents, and abilities to their maximum capacity and impact the world.  "Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—I took the one less traveled by,And that has made all the difference."  Robert Frost Be encouraged, my friends. You are applying your mind to think the right way about your future. You will profit from the combination of correct thinking, motives, and actions. Great victories are ahead for you. Do you believe it? Discernment allows us to gain the proper perspective surrounding our decision. With understanding, we obtain the insight needed to choose the right pathway. Someone once said, "Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment." At that very moment, something happens inside our hearts! A spark ignites to light our way. We see the path we should choose and the best step to take!  My friends, I believe you will choose the right path. You can expect, anticipate, and prepare for victory! Victory!

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. "Together, we are better." Unity in purpose is a beautiful blessing in knowing that you are never alone on your life and career journey. What makes where we are right now special is our perspective. When we see ourselves serving others along the way, our purpose in life and career begins to focus. You are a leader with purpose. Do not let kindness and truth leave you. Write them on the tablet of your heart as reminders of how to serve. As we practice this habit, we find favor. One small act of kindness can change your day.  Choose joy on your journey and share it as you go today. Your influence can move ordinary people to extraordinary leaders. Today is an excellent time for us! The best is yet to be. What makes for a great place and time?  People! I see Summit leaders focusing on five key attributes that impact performance outlined in the book - Everyday People, Extraordinary Leadership How to Make a Difference Regardless of Your Title, Role, or AuthorityJames M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner  Model the way by their faithful walk.     Inspire others through a shared vision for a brighter future. Challenge the familiar - seeking a better way. Enable others through collaboration. Encourage the heart through believing in each other.  "Positive expectations create positive images in the mind, where positive futures for yourself and others are first constructed." Everyday People, Extraordinary Leadership  I like "encouraging the heart" and "inspiring others through a shared vision." People strengthened me with their words, acts of kindness, and affirming feedback throughout my career. They modeled leadership that is part of who we are as a company. "When people believe that you have their interest at heart— that you care about them — they are more likely to be open to your influence." Everyday People, Extraordinary Leadership  Joining a group with a purpose triggers my thinking about my purpose in life and career. Discovering purpose for life and career starts with a vision. Who am I, and what will I become? Seeking and finding the answers to these questions is an adventure that makes life and career fulfilling. What I love about being here in IBM is seeing the joy occurring in many people's lives when they connect with purpose. Outstanding leadership is a lifelong process. Be intentional and start now. Make service to others part of your growth plan. And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap is we do not lose heart.  Prioritize continuous learning and developing new skills. Identity and engage the conscientious leaders around you for insight and help. Together, we are better! Until the next time! Victory! Victory! Victory!  

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. As a person thinks in their heart, so they are. This ancient quote packs truth that impacts every dimension of a leader's life. "Guard your heart above all else, for from it come the issues of life."   From early childhood, the people caring for your development share affirming observations of us that begin building our self-image. We build upon the foundation as we grow.  Outstanding leadership requires an ongoing becoming the person we are born to be until we reach the full measure of maturity. On our life and career journey, we experience victories and setbacks. How we see ourselves will affect our response and the impact of achievement and delays. Someone once said, "Knowledge is power!" Knowing who you are-Knowing to whom you belong-Knowing what we possess -Knowing the purpose and plan and will for us- The answers to these questions build confidence! Confidence is the one attribute essential to every great accomplishment and fundamental to the success of every great leader. We encounter circumstances that challenge our confidence. The strongest leaders are most aware of who they are.     How do we obtain this knowledge? Wisdom! We ask, seek, knock, expecting to receive our answers.  As young children, we were naturally curious and asked for answers. It seems we lose this childlike curiosity as we experience life and the demands of daily living. It is said,"Great leaders have curiosity, a commitment to continuous learning, andthe conviction that failure breeds knowledge and fortitude." How to LeadWisdom from the World's Greatest CEOs, Founders, and Game ChangersDavid Rubenstein  Great leaders intentionally seek to know all the days of their lives—this quest for Wisdom and knowledge fuels a passion for life and work.  Wisdom calls out,"I love them that love me, and those who seek me will find me." Thomas J. Watson Sr. shared his leadership insight to a group of new sales leaders on July 12, 1932."Wisdom is the power that enables us to make practical use of our knowledge." Someone suggested,"Begin today with pen and paper to invest time to reflect on your visionand the awareness of your identity as a person and leader." I took time this week to reflect, write down and rehearse my answers to the "Knowing" questions. I noticed a boost of confidence, enthusiasm, and new strength in my spirit for the future. All of us benefit from remembering who we are. As leaders, we need Wisdom and knowledge to serve the best and make the most significant impact on our life and career journey! Be encouraging and know that you are here for a purpose. Get the most out of it. The best is yet to be! Believe it! Victory!  

Greetings, Summit Leaders. One of the most distinctive qualities great leaders develop is perspective. They can see beyond the obvious to discern possibilities for doing something new when others see only the challenge.   Great leaders ask for help, ask questions for clarification, and gain sharper perspectives and insights through the process. The temptation is to listen to the internal voices, saying, "You should know this?" "You will look silly if you ask for help on this." So, we find ourselves going in circles, becoming frustrated, anxious, and losing time which only adds to our frustration. Instead, begin thinking of ways of serving with excellence during the process. Three questions came to my mind. 1.  How could I add value?  2.  What might they be thinking after two weeks in their roles?  3.  Where can I make the most significant impact? The shift in my thinking to serving others best motivates me to answer the small questions that weigh me down after repeated attempts to figure them out. Collaboration and caring became the two words that resonated during a challenging week. Many people I never met provided the answers to questions and help at just the right time. The help you need will appear at just the right time. Recognize the service and be grateful for the person who gave you just what you needed to keep making progress. Remember to do the same when you are the person providing the service. As a person sows, they will reap—more than they sow and later than they sow. We reap what we sow.  "In Service" is the term a Summit Leader shared with me during a conversation last week. He said, "All of my lasting relationships with clients came from me helping them with acts of service in something important to them." Summit Leader His willingness to serve in small ways opens the door for more significant opportunities. He talks about the vision he shared with me almost five years ago to become the youngest person to reach the top of his career path. His goal is within reach, and service to others is a contributing factor. "In times of uncertainty, the best leaders create stability for their team by absorbing ambiguity. They need to be comfortable with uncertainty - so much that they can sit in its company long enough to transform the unknowns into opportunities. This comfort with uncertainty (and its close cousin adversity) is one of the hallmarks of the Impact Players" Liz Wiseman,  IMPACT PLAYERS - How to Take the Lead, Play Bigger, and Multiply Your Impact. "You put yourself out there. The more you are willing to be uncomfortable, the more you will grow." Summit Leader Summit leaders are Impact Players! Victory!    

Greetings, Summit Leaders. One of the wisest things we can do when facing a battle or new challenge is recall the past victories in our lives. Every day we face struggles in life and careers.   Our enemies of doubt, fear, anxiety, and unbelief constantly tempt us to turn back quickly, give up, and become discouraged. The good news is that we are not the first leaders to experience these enemies to our success in life and career. I love to study the lives of great leaders to see how they respond to life and career challenges.  Three leaders that come to my mind are Winston Churchill, Helen Keller, and King David. I see three common attributes that we can claim in our battles. The three attributes that are empowering are conviction, courage, and confidence.    Conviction is vitally essential in every battle we face.  Conviction says, "I am committed to my pathway and will not retreat, give up or turn around. I believe I am in the right place at the proper time. Consider Winston Churchill, an obscure, moderately known man who took a step of faith on May 10, 1940, becoming the Prime Minister of Great Britain during the looming and seeming unstoppable advances of Hitler's forces during World War II. He proclaimed victory in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.   What should our response be when facing any battle in life and career? Make a bold declaration of faith. All three leaders activated their faith before they engaged their will."I felt that my past life had been but the preparation for this hour and this trial." Prime Minister Churchill "Never give in, except to convictions of honor and good sense." Winston Churchill Commitment precedes courage, and courage empowers confidence. When we commit to winning the battles in life and career, we position ourselves for victory and a more significant impact on the lives of our families, colleagues, clients, and communities we serve. Confidence is the fruit of conviction and courage. Helen Keller is an inspiration to us all. She became deaf and blind when she was just a baby of 19 months. Her winning the battles has been told in books and film and has inspired millions. Be inspired and encouraged by her words of wisdom.  "Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence."Helen Keller    

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Today I observed an outstanding group of Summit Leaders showcase their skills, growth, and insight during a capstone exercise. Capstone is a culmination event and launching at the same time. I asked them to reflect on where they started, how they felt then, and how they feel now. I see in these Summit Leaders the manifestation of what it means to get the most out of your work! As I watched them, I recall how grateful they were when each of them started their training.  Work is a gift. Through work, we practice and benefit in three distinct areas. Through work, I discover my gifts, talents, and abilities. In serving, we become more in touch with ourselves and find our value and purpose in life. My work does not define me, but I add meaning through my attitude, beliefs, and heart set. Each of the Summit Leaders talks about growth in their life and career. I wonder if they know their impact on others as they journey. Well, I know that each of the senior managers who witnessed them today was impressed, inspired, and stirred up by their performance. We are together. Iron sharpens iron. So, our first word is gratitude for your work. Remembering your work is a gift and how we use it determines much more than a paycheck.  I am thankful to be working and never see work as just a day in and day out routine. No! Work is a blessing and produces multiplied rewards when approached with a blessed mindset.  The Capstone Project is the evitable outworking of a job. Having skills refined day in and day out is valuable time and presents the opportunity to excel. The second reward is fulfillment in a job well done. When we look, do, and be our best, we stand taller, engage authentically, and learn to serve others confidently. You feel good about yourself when you know you gave your best at work. We see more clearly new ways to serve others when we view ourselves as servant leaders. Now you are gaining a paycheck and honing skills, character development, a sense of self-worth, rewarding relationships, a sense of accomplishment, and the ability to contribute to the lives of others. So, as we consider our work, let's see it as one of life's highest callings; serving others. Someone once said, "If anyone among you wants to be great, let that person become a servant to all." "Do your work. Not just your work, do a little more, but that little is worth more than all the rest. And if you suffer, as you must, and if you doubt, as you must, do your work. Put your heart into it, and the sky will clear. Then out of your doubt and suffering will be born the supreme joy of life." Dean Briggs Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Where are you on your journey in life and career right now? I heard someone say that we are either in a storm, coming out, or going into a storm. On our journey, we can expect storms in our life and career. Adversity, trials, and storms are inevitable and, with the proper response, can be the catalyst to a new level of growth and development as a leader. How should we respond? Patience, perseverance, and practice are three key steps we are encouraged to take when navigating storms. Patience is our ability to wait quietly and think calmly. When tempted to run off in all directions, a leader with patience conquers their emotions by calling to mind, either in their lives or the lives of great leaders, the best response.  They wait, ponder, and discern the best next step and the timing. So, when in a storm, don't rush to find the exit. Instead, ask yourself, what can I learn from this storm, and how should I respond? Our perspective makes a difference during a storm. Great leaders see these challenges as tests and seek to pass the exam.   Someone once said, "Don't run from tests and hardships as difficult as they are. You will ultimately find joy in them; if you embrace them, your faith will blossom under pressure and teach you true patience as you endure. And true patience brought on by endurance will equip you to complete the long journey and cross the finish line—mature, complete, and wanting nothing."  I like that idea! Great leaders persevere and don't quit. Even now if you are facing a storm, don't quit, but persevere. Keep walking by faith. The focus of faith frees us from fear. Practice what you know to be the disciplines for growth and success. Focus on what you know to be true. Stick to your convictions. They are your root system that goes deeper into the ground during the storms. Palm trees are often subject to the driving forces of hurricanes. You see them bending and still standing after the storm. When the wind blows hard against palm trees, it strengthens their roots! Meaning that they come out of a storm even stronger than before.   That is the primary purpose of the storms. They strengthen those that they test. Keep on asking, seeking, and knocking to discover and learn how to respond to your storms—knowing that these challenging times will only last long enough to accomplish their purpose in your life. Then you will hear, "Peace! Be still!" and you are still standing. "You will not be the same after the storms of life; you will be stronger, wiser, and more alive than ever before." Bryant McGill Victory!   

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. Where are you now? Are you in a valley, on a mountain top, or at a crossroad deciding which way to go? Please know that there is value in believing that you are here for such a time as this. Your future is open wide, and there are plans for you. Our most significant opportunities are today. Please make the most of it and be thankful for the moments. If we believe and do what we know to do, walking in the light we have for the next step; our tomorrow will take care of itself. I observed and listened to several Summit Leaders yesterday as they shared their journey with a group of new Summits ready to graduate from their Summit Training.  "I knew what I wanted and worked through several rotations, talked with people, gained the skills, learned the tools, and now I support clients with our IoT (Internet of Things) solution." Summit Leader cohort 2018.It is fantastic to see her poise, professionalism, confidence, and credibility in her journey of three years at IBM. Next, I listened to a Summit Leader describe her role in IBM Global Financing with a joyful heart. "Dream and not be limited by constraints.""We want our clients to dream without constraints."She shares, "Be kind and rewind." Summit Leader, cohort 2016 Each week, she takes time at the end of the week to reflect on her days, the steps she took, the people she met, and her current position on her journey. I received a note from another Summit Leader sharing the good news about her new assignment as Technical Client Leader for one of our Fortune top fifteen clients. Again, Summit hearts are filled with joy to see leaders like these grow and flourish."Such a great and important topic!! 'Joy is contagious!'" Summit Leader, Cohort 2016 What distinguishing attributes do they share? They believe, act on their belief, and are grateful. Wherever you are right now, the message for you is "Keep believing!"Do the work assigned for you today. Someone once said, "We must quickly carry out the tasks assigned to us by the one who sent us. The night is coming, and then no one can work." Our most significant victories over fear, doubt, unbelief are the bridges to more fantastic works than these you will do. Believe and take action. Expectation, anticipation, and preparation position us for the best. Be encouraged, Summit Leaders! You are among a group of believers! Someone once said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed. It is the only thing that ever has." Regardless of your circumstances today, believe. You will hear the encouraging voice, "This is the road! Now follow it." Every day we write our life stories through our responses to the opportunities given us this day.   "Live a good story!" Josh Neuman "Be grateful is the theme!" Summit Leader, cohort 2022  Victory! 

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. Joy. This one emotion has an enormous impact on a person's ability to endure, gain new strength, and develop the power to overcome all life's challenges. Can you recall a time when you experience joy?   This emotion makes life worth living in the moment because it resonates with our core identity. It is associated with feelings of ease, appreciation, gratitude, and meaning. A group of Summit Leaders meets on "Victory Day by Day - Joyful Friday!"The group shares one thing they are grateful for that day and shouts of appreciation to their teammates for an action, comment, or success. They look and listen as their teammates share their joyful moments.  "To get the full value of joy, you must have someone to divide it with." Mark Twain Their sharing lifts their mood, boosts their energy, and brings smiles to their faces! Neuroscience calls this the Dopamine effect, known as the feel-good neurotransmitter, a chemical that ferries information between neurons. The brain releases it when we experience joy.   Sharing joy helps regulate movement, learning, and emotional responses to life's challenges. "I always feel good after our Joyful Fridays!" Summit Leader The connective power of joy is visible in sports. When a team performs at its best, overcoming its challenges, every player — indeed, the entire arena — experiences an overflow of joy that lifts the team even higher.  Joy is a multiplier in our ability to endure and the strength to perform. I recall two quotes highlighting the effects of joy "... for the joy set before him he endured," and "joy... is your strength." Gratitude can ignite our joy. Being grateful creates a mindset for resiliency, strength, and victory. Counting our blessings cultivates, stirs our emotions, and positions us to win the battles of life and career. "The king rejoices in Your strength.  How great is his joy in the victories you give!"  King David Everyone in every walk of life can be a force for good through their response of gratitude with joy! How can we cultivate the emotion of joy for life and career and experience endurance, strength, and victories? Start each day by writing down several things you are most grateful for in your life and career. Think about them for a few minutes. Let your mind replay them throughout the day and replenish your joy. Keep asking for joy, seeking it, knocking on the door, and you will find it! Research indicates that cultivating this habit of dispositional gratitudeincreases our state of joy over time.  Please remember to share your joy with others. Joy is contagious. "Got joy?" Be glad and enjoy your days and your work. "A joyful heart is good medicine." Victory!       

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. Everyone desires a measure of greatness in their life and career journey. Many accomplish a position of great distinction and honor. Each of us has a unique pathway that, when followed, can lead to Eminence and outstanding outcomes. The lives of great leaders before us provide indicators and attributes we can apply and expect similar results. No two pathways are alike for a leader. Each leader can discover their pathway and then experience the joy of a fulfilling life and career journey through focus, faithfulness, and providential favor. "If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is favorable."Lucius Annaeus Seneca Someone once said, "If any among wishes to be great, let them become servants to all." Serving. How we see ourselves as servant-leaders will influence how we respond to our opportunities in the days and months ahead. In the lives of great leaders, you see a theme combined in three key attributes. They focus on seeking first what's most important for themselves as leaders. Focus: They seek to find purpose and vision for their lives and careers. They have a laser-like focus on their pathway. One wise leader shares "stay the course in serving on the way to eminence by setting our gaze on the path for us with fixed purpose, looking straight ahead, ignoring life's distractions, watching where you are going, and sticking to the pathway of truth and the road will be safe and smooth before you." The focus of faith frees us from being sidetracked for even a moment or taking the detour that leads to nowhere. Faithfulness:  Consistently working toward personal excellence in every area of life helps develop disciplines that keep us physically, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally alert and prepared for the opportunities ahead for each of us. Great leaders live and work with the expectation that the results will be good. An ancient saying "Do you see a person skilled in his work? He will stand in the presence of kings. He will not stand in the presence of the unknown."   Favor:  Defined as a gracious, kind, and friendly attitude is desirable to all. Focusing on serving others, meeting needs, and winning hearts and minds can accomplish much. Kindness and truth are attributes written in the hearts of great leaders that lead to great victories and more abundant opportunities to serve and grow. " Ask, and favor will be given you. Seek, and you will find favor. Knock and favor opens to you."  The 3 F's to Eminence: focus, faithfulness, and favor can work for you in the days ahead. Please apply the principle and expect the results! Victory!    

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. What is your dream? Dreams are our ability to envision something and experience the outcomes. They are gifts available to all. Wherever we are on our life and career journeys, we are encouraged to dream, have a purpose and vision for our lives, and why created. We learn insights for living by observing and reflecting on lives and the impact of great leaders. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s life manifests five vital qualities every great leader needs. Many know about his life's purpose, vision, service, courage, and faith. We see several qualities that may help us do even greater works in our life and career journey. Faith:  Faith is seeing the invisible, believing what seems impossible, and taking action. What step of faith should I make to realize your purpose and vision is the question I ask myself?  "Faith is taking the first step, even when you don't see the whole staircase." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Are you starting a new career, assignment, working with new clients? Have faith! Purpose: Dr. King discovered his purpose by serving others, and so can we in our life and career journey. What an empowering discovery when we find our purpose. "The two most important days in your life are the day you are born, and the day you find out why." Mark Twain Vision: What's your dream? It will keep you producing all the days of your life and help you make the best choices on your life and career journey."Without vision, people lack discipline." "Without vision, people perish.""Dream to persist and persist in dreaming."This day, take time to reflect on your vision, attributes, and actions.Are they aligned? Think your vision through. Could you write it down? Speak it out! Service:   Summit Leaders share a passion for serving. Wholeheartedly serving is a distinctive quality for greatness."Everybody can be great because everybody can serve." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.We reap what we sow, more than and later than we sow. Keep serving your family, company, clients, colleagues, and community. Courage:  Taking the first step will often require courage. The power of the dream, faith, vision, purpose combines to provide the "on-time" resources we need to fulfill the dream. Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or discouraged. "If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all. And so today, I still have a dream." Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. What actions can we take to overcome fear and walk in victory?  Recognize your fear.  Challenge it. “The focus of faith frees us from fear." Encourage yourself with self-talk and rehearse the truth of your identity. Embrace being comfortable with being uncomfortable. We are in a battle for our minds. Make the focus of faith and being brave a habit.  Guard your thoughts and mind and practice mindfulness. Seek a mentor for life and career.  Let's get started today! Victory!   

Greetings, Summit Leaders. This year can be one of the most fantastic opportunities for you!Much of our success will depend on our response to the new challenge before us.   Many great leaders respond to life based on how they see themselves first and taking the initiative based on their beliefs. Someone once said, "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he." Our ability to experience victory and life abundantly more rests on our willingness to go where we have not gone before, accomplish more and become you. Our Identity and how we think about ourselves impact our leadership.You may recall the encouraging words from a loved one, parent, or grandparent saying, "Remember who you are and to whom you belong."They were affirming you. We act according to what we believe. Neuroscience shows us that we can change our thinking and therefore change our responses by repeatedly affirming who we are, our purpose, vision, attributes and "fixing our minds" on those qualities we envision in our lives. This repeated affirmation begins building a thought pattern in your mind at an early age and one that continues to affect how you view life, challenges, and opportunities. Knowing and affirming who you are as a leader will affect every area of your growth in life; vocational, spiritual, social/recreational, and family. Challenges, change, and circumstances are seen as opportunities for growth when our minds focus by faith on what is ahead for us. The focus of faith frees us from fear. Take the initiative and step forward, expecting, anticipating, and preparing for the best. This year, day by day, let's focus our minds, thought patterns, self-talks, and initiatives with a "More Abundantly 2022!" mindset. Three steps to get started are:  Recall: "Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope." Think about your growth and the victories you won when you stepped out in faith. Remember: Think about the process and experience you gained. Be faithful in practicing being your best, doing, and looking your best.   Resolve: Envision the vision. See it as done! Are you becoming the person, leader and doing the things you know to do based on the truth of who you are? Yes. Stay faithful, move forward, and believe. Someone once said, "No life grows great until it is focused, dedicated and disciplined."  We can experience "abundantly more" than all you can ask or imagine in the year ahead! Believe! Make your plans. Be ready to do and experience even greater works than these in 2022. Be intentional in all your actions and encourage someone as you continue your journey in 2022. "Everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time!"  "Good success" is always better together! Victory!   

Greetings, Summit Leaders. This year, someone challenged me to experience "more abundantly in 2022!" As you reflect on your victories in 2021, what's one insight you learned in the process?Think it through. Take time to write it down. Speak aloud what you learned. Please share it with someone. It then becomes yours forever! Perhaps you can celebrate a year crowned with goodness and your cart overflowing with abundance.   Accomplishments are important. The essential thing in life and career is personal growth. In every conversation with Summit Leaders who reflect on their journeys, they mention "I have grown." as one of the rewarding outcomes. One Summit Leader shared an insight he wrote in his journal. "I continue to see myself growing. I see things like this contributing to my growth. I will continue to do it as a best practice." Summit Leader Someone once said, "Growth is the only evidence of life. Growth is never by chance; it results from forces working together. Seeds of faith are always within us; sometimes, it takes a crisis to nourish and encourage their growth. Sustainable development is the pathway to the future we want for all." What lies ahead for great leaders in 2022 is the open door of "More abundantly 2022!How do we best prepare? Conviction: Believe that you are here for such a time as this and that you can do all the things providentially assigned for you to accomplish. Courage: Take the initiative and make the first step of faith toward more wondrous works than you can imagine. Envision the victory already won! "It's done!" "Well done, good and faithful servant." Confidence:  When we encounter and open the door to "More abundantly 2022!" we can walk through with confidence, knowing that we have the assurance of victory. "I will give you victory!" We fight from victory, not for victory.   What is your priority in 2022? Take time to write it down on paper. All faithful leaders have opened the door to "More abundantly 2022!"   Focusing on growth affects every area of our lives. Trust that the doors placed before you may not be what you expect; they are the test of your faith. "To be successful, we must learn to become consistent. You must figure out what works best for you." John Maxwell John shares his approach. "Instead of being goal conscious, I focus on being growth conscious. The benefits are: It focuses on the journey. It matures you and others. It is lifelong. It changes you. It keeps you going beyond the goal. "If you can believe in yourself and the potential in you and then focus on growth instead of goals, there's no telling how far you can grow. You just need to consistently put in the work as you keep believing in yourself." John Maxwell. The 15 Invaluable Laws of Growth. "More abundantly 2022!"  Anything is possible if a person believes!  Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Rejoice! Again, I say rejoice! Your life and leadership are making an impact! This week a Summit Leader inspired me in sharing how a group of new Summit Leaders rallied together to provide socks and clothing for a mission center in the city where they live. "Socks are the number one item that a homeless person needs." Summit Leader  She and her colleagues exhibit the distinguishing attribute of every great leader - hope! "It was amazing to see the entire HUB contribute. I never imagined it would be like this. I am honored to be part of it. The experience is humbling and fulfilling." Summit Leader Someone once said, "Giving gifts is more satisfying than receiving them." "Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness." Desmond Tutu Her motivation is to "help others in my new city." I am living here now. This city is my new home. If I can help one person, let alone 113. We can give people hope in the future and a way out." "When I delivered the new clothing, the director shared a vision statement that resonated with me." Your help is the "Catalysts of hope for everyone in the shelters." Everyone everywhere needs hope, and the Summit Leaders are letting their light shine in being "brokers in hope." "Leaders are brokers in hope." Napoleon  Someone once asked what can we do with so little, and there are so many? Believing in hope is the excellent multiplier.  "In hope against hope, Abraham believed and so became..."One Summit Leader believed and became the rally for her colleagues with like minds. "Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all." Dale Carnegie Someone once said, "Do not despise the day of small beginnings." Consider this. Somewhere in a city mission shelter this holiday season, someone put on hope in the form of one of the following gifts. Summit HUB clothing drive:   ⁃ 3 sweatshirts    ⁃ 3 sweaters   ⁃ 3 jackets   ⁃ 4 shirts   ⁃ 9 t-shirts   ⁃ 3 dress shirts   ⁃ 3 sweatpants   ⁃ 2 pants   ⁃ 2 shorts   ⁃ 1 dress   ⁃ 1 skirt   ⁃ 5 bras   ⁃   113 pairs of new socks    ⁃ 20 pairs of gloves   ⁃ 3 hats   ⁃ 1 scarf  Summit Leaders inspire me to keep giving my best because they have hope.  Hope is the catalyst for a great awakening and renewal of the thinking to accomplish the impossible. No longer conform to the old thinking patterns but be transformed by renewing the mind. It starts in us! Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders. This week a Summit Leader encouraged me with a quote that points to the key for growth in a leader. "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." She goes on to share with me three steps that resonated with me. Priorities.   Principles. Practices.  Priorities: She emphasizes putting others first and volunteering to go and speak to a group of ninth-grade students about what's possible in their future. Her motivation is to serve others, and she is sowing in the very act of serving. As I listened to her, I asked myself into whose lives am I sowing today, and is this a priority?Someone once asked, "What has this to do with success in life and career?" The answer is, "Everything!" Everything in our life and career is connected. One action affects the outcomes in other areas. "If you don't give anything, don't expect anything. Success is not coming to you. You must come to it." - Marva Collins.  Principles: Showing up at the high school and helping others enabled the Summit Leader to practice leadership skills and principles to accelerate her growth. Older leaders from ancient times often encourage those they led to follow this tested and proven principle in their lives. Reflection and application are essential. "And what you have learned and have received and have heard and have seen in me, practice these things."They encourage growth-minded leadership with this statement. "Give your complete attention to these matters. Throw yourself into your tasks so that everyone will see your progress." That's personal growth! Practices: Each day, this Summit Leader writes three things she is grateful for at the beginning of the day. "I start each day with what I am thankful for today. It grounds me and prepares me for that day." Summit Leader Someone once said, "You will never change your life until you change something you do daily."   Her "attitude of gratitude" positioned her for growth and inoculated her from becoming prideful. My friends, as we reflect with an attitude of gratitude during the coming weeks, let's make it our priority to find a need in someone's life and fill it. Make it a priority regardless of your schedule. Make it a principle you believe in and practice on your life and career journey. If you do, a bountiful harvest awaits you! Victory! 

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. The coming weeks present a fantastic opportunity to remember the goodness you enjoyed along the way this far on your life and career journey. Consider the glorious victories you are enjoying now. Get ready for the good things ahead with planning. Make time to reflect and plan.   Great leaders give us examples we can follow as we think about our journey, setting our minds for even greater works ahead of us.It is excellent to follow tested, proven leadership that encourages us to go deeper and summit greater heights by their example. The Future Leader by Jacob Morgan highlights nine skills to succeed in the next decade. Two mindsets that resonate with me are "Explorer" and "Servant." Great leaders anticipate the future with curiosity and a willingness to take risks when the encounters ahead are unknown.They move forward in faith. They gain new strength as they pause, remember past victories, reflect on how they came to pass, look for insights to carry along with them.   A Servant mindset focuses on using their gifts and talents in creative ways. Their serving lifts the level of the team and overflows in the community, clients, company, and the nations.  Take one action during this time of resting and waiting.    Remember your victories. Reflect on your success. Rehearse the outcomes of work. Resolve to extend your reach and expand your vision. Record your progress.   Review your vision and begin a new chapter for the journey ahead. Move forward with confidence into the coming stages of your journey. Continue keeping a record of plans for victory and the accomplishments this far. "Moses kept a written record of their progress and the stages of their journey." These are the stages of their march, identified by the different places where they stopped along the way.As you plan, hear the encouraging word; "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." Great leaders are curious, present with those they lead and help those they lead to grow, develop and become conquerors as they go. "Greatness is not where we stand, but in what direction we are moving."Oliver Wendell Holmes. Have faith that all you need will be available to you when you need it."If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours." Henry David Thoreau Victory!  

On today's episode, Alan talks with friend, adventurer and author Joël Malm and the state of leadership, why we're so angry, what we're afraid of and how he has had to shift his plans About Joël Joël Malm is an entrepreneur, communicator, and leadership coach. As founder of Summit Leaders he uses outdoor adventure and coaching to help people find their calling and pursue a vision for their lives. His expeditions have taken him around the world to places like Mt. Kilimanjaro, Grand Canyon and Machu Picchu. He has traveled in over seventy countries on six continents and speaks three languages. He holds a B.A. in Political Science and an M.S. in Counseling. He is the author of Vision Map (Moody Press, 2014),  Fully You, and Love Slows Down (Salem/Regnery, 2020). He and his wife Emily and daughter Elise currently live in Texas. Connect with Joël Website Summit Leaders   Books   Level your leadership Purchase a Right Side Up Journal https://www.rightsideupjournal.com Schedule your FREE breakthrough coaching session https://form.jotform.com/212656762431153 Invest in your leadership by joining free Right Side Up Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/rsulc

Greetings, Summit Leaders. What do you believe for your future?   Be encouraged and believe "the best is yet to be."   Bo Swilley, my friend and a great encourager whispered a word of encouragement to me, "the best is yet to be," during a time of serving together on August 20, 2017.   The timing of Bo's words was perfect and boosted my confidence.Bo's words gave me a quote that came to mind this morning that I underlined and dated from the book he shared with me. Someone once said, "Truthful lips stand the test of time, but lies are soon exposed, and all things are possible to those who believe." What we believe matters. Our belief system drives our thinking, affecting our hearts and actions. What we believe affects everything about our lives. Our beliefs generate optimism for the journey ahead. What vision do you believe will come to pass? Someone once said, "Now faith is being sure of what you hope for, and certain of what you do not see.  Are you expecting, anticipating, and preparing for it? Keep working, watching, and waiting because faith without works is dead.  "In hope against hope, he believed and became..." is a great quote describing one man's response to what appeared to be an impossible set of circumstances. How can we respond when changes come? Don't stop believing! A Summit alum shared his experience in a Harvard University class focusing on leadership in sales. "My takeaway was that sellers who are optimistic are more productive than those who are not."  He shares insights from the book, Learned Optimism, How to Change Your Mind and Your Life by Martin E. P. Seligman. Optimists are realistic; they contemplate the facts and do not deny that the circumstances are challenging, and the road to victory can be months or even years ahead. Optimists protect their thinking against every negative thought not aligned with their vision and purpose. The key is our perspective. How are we interpreting and explaining our life and career moments? During the challenging days, months, and years ahead, resolve to be faithful in your responsibilities to others and do your work. Expectation, anticipation, and preparation describe the mindset of great leaders. Remember your purpose, vision, goals, and victories.  Ask, "What steps can I take to increase how optimism is a dominant attribute in me as a leader?" Reflect on your journey and the insights you gained.   Please note events, circumstances, and how someone inspired you with their optimism in your journal. Be the optimist for someone each day. Practice.  Someone shared this quote that I recite to help me maintain my optimism. "Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise." Optimism outwardly expressed in our words, actions, and body language is essential and contagious when working with colleagues, clients, family, and friends. Choose today to be an optimist! Victory!  

Greetings, Summit Leaders.  "I am grateful and optimistic about where I am and my future. I am wondering how I get there from here?" Summit Leader We discussed how values precede priorities and how to get started. Journaling your journey is a discipline that will help you gain clarity, discover insights about yourself, and make the trip an exciting experience.Someone once said, "No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it." I once heard a great leader say, "Keep a journal!" In a conversation with a new Summit Leader, the phrase we shared was "Journaling the Journey!" "Write it down so that you will never forget the process." Journals are a physical representation of the life story you are writing at this moment. Also, they can be a way to discover patterns from past experiences and outcomes that will help you more clearly navigate your journey ahead and reach your goals in life.  "Journaling is one of the most overlooked and under-appreciated spiritual disciplines. Journaling is the difference between learning and remembering. It's also the difference between forgetting and fulfilling our goals." Mark Batterson You remember circumstances, feelings, emotions, and people who impacted you with their help and encouragement. Most importantly, you prepare yourself for helping those you love and serve while moving forward in life and your career. Here are some steps to begin the discipline of journaling.  Purchase a notebook and pen for writing down your vision, goals, insights. Write "Volume 1 and a title on the outside cover." On page number one, write the month, day, and year. Write down your vision, purpose, goals, and thoughts for your life and career. Find a time during the day when you are at your best.   Find a quiet place where you can read (inspirational content), reflect, and plan. Make time to practice the discipline each day. Take pleasure in the fact that you are writing your story. Ask a friend to join you in practicing the discipline.   One of the best outcomes of disciplined journaling is the habit of "intentional stillness." We are so focused on many activities that we miss the connection with our vision and purpose. "In quietness and confidence shall be your strength."  People who devote time alone with a sense of purpose and value find a renewed reservoir of personal strength and quiet confidence. When insights from your quiet time are in your mind through journaling, you will find opportunities to use them in encouraging others on their journey. "I am going to begin today. I am going out and buying myself a notebook today. Please keep me accountable. The next time we meet, I will show you my journal and my plans." Summit Leader Be encouraged and begin today! Victory!   

 Greetings, Summit Leaders.  I am thankful for you and your "attitude of gratitude."  This mindset gives you the edge as a leader. You can go further and accomplish more.  "The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you." - Charles Swindoll.   What are you most thankful for as you reflect on your life and career journey today?   Take time to get alone with pen and paper and write down seven attributes about who you are.  Thanksgiving for being born who you are and who you are becoming is a great place to start. For example, "I am confident." "I have conviction." "I am courageous.""I am loved unconditionally."  "I am victorious."    When you do this exercise, you will discover a reoccurring process in making you the person you are now.  Thanksgiving By Ralph Waldo Emerson For each new morning with its light, For rest and shelter of the night, For health and food, For love and friends, For everything Thy goodness sends.   The attitude of gratitude gives us perspective in living and leading. Being thankful helps us see life and events more clearly and respond to challenges, opportunities, and outcomes.  The attitude of gratitude prepares us for promotion in living and leading. Combining our responses, remembering the turning points, reflecting on the process, and experiencing our transformation while adapting prepares us for more significant influence and leadership levels.   This Thanksgiving Day, let us reflect on how far we have come and how blessed we are to experience this day and continue to give thanks for all the good things in our lives.    Thanksgiving positions us for transformation in renewing our thinking, perspective, and outlook for our future.  "Stay the course!" Summit Leader  Be thankful and believe that the best is yet to come! The just shall live by faith!  Victory! 

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. "The height of your success is determined by the depth of your belief."Zig Ziglar We see the impact of leaders who believe in their mission, purpose, vision, and actions. They are motivating, inspiring, and live and lead by their faith, character, and conviction. Belief is an empowering emotion that keeps us excited, enthusiastic and moving forward in confidence toward our purpose, vision, and goals.Someone once said, "All things are possible to the one who believes." Leaders fortify their beliefs by practicing doing one thing during their journey in life and career.   Think about one thing you believe about your vision and purpose. Do your actions show that you think it's possible? Our belief drives our willingness to go, do and become.   Great leaders recall to memory their progress to date. Take time to go back in your mind to when you first believed, and the victories won. Reflection is an excellent way of fortifying your belief in your future.   Neuroscience describes it as creating new neural pathways in our brain. Repetitively thinking about our journey and recalling key milestones, experiences, and affirming outcomes boost our faith, confidence, and desire to achieve more significant accomplishments.  Consider taking steps right now to strengthen your belief? Do you have a written vision and purpose for your life and career?If you do, take time to pull it out of the desk drawer or notebook and read it aloud. Keep it visible. Does it still stir you with the excitement of seeing your vision not only on paper but envisioning it in your mind? Most importantly, can you see growth within yourself as you reflect? Keep a journal of your progress. Is your vision focused on serving or getting?  Great leaders seek to serve and impact as many lives as possible to accomplish their vision, purpose, and goals. Do I have a like-minded person to share my vision, my success so far, and planned next steps Having someone who believes and has a similar desire to live and lead with purpose and vision is a confidence booster.   Become an encourager of at least one person's vision and purpose.  Outstanding leaders seek to encourage others on their journey. They make this a habit. I know of several Summit Leaders who intentionally come together to motivate, inspire and lift each other. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. Finally, practicing gratitude together as you recall past victories builds your faith.  Believing is the first step in "It's possible!" Keep on believing!  Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Everyone seeks a measure of greatness, impact, and fulfillment on their journey in life and career. They focus on building skills, dedicate themselves to their craft, and practice discipline in refining their talents, gifts, and abilities. Competency and hard work alone may bring recognition and even promotion. These accomplishments, victories, new skills, recognition, and rewards are some of the most fulfilling times in the heart of a leader!   Someone once said, "See a person skilled in their work. They shall stand before kings and not obscure people." Our focus, dedication, and discipline will elevate us and increase our capacity to accomplish much as leaders.   Being alert and aware of enemies to every great leader can be our protection. What would you say causes leaders to stumble and even fall on their life and career journey? One word that comes to me is pride. There is a form of pride that seeps into the heart of a leader if they are not diligent, discerning, and deliberate about building defenses against this enemy. This week, one Summit shared experiencing an attack in his thinking, where the enemy strikes; that helped him see the need to be alert to our thoughts and how we view others.   "Having overcome feelings of inadequacy, rejection, and poor self-identity enables me to live in victory." Summit Leader He shares a strategy to create reminders and triggers that help him recall the principles of living a life of victory in life and career.  Write down quotes that remind you of a meaningful life and career principle.  Keep mementos from victories visible in your daily routines. Practice gratitude and remember grace. "Here is one quote that I wrote and keep on my desk." "Pride comes before destruction, haughty spirit before the fall, and before honor is humility." Summit Leader "Humility is not thinking less of yourself, but thinking of yourself less." C.S. Lewis  Someone once said, "Nothing is as disarming to pride as a life filled with gratitude and grace." Graceful and humble leaders enjoy sustained growth and expanded influence. They understand their purpose, vision and practice authenticity in their life and career journey.  This leadership practice enables us to connect with others with compassion, love, and authenticity.   "Grace is the key to sustained happiness, more fulfilling work, and performance that impacts the world." Alexis Thomas. The Power of a Graceful Leader. Growth is the quest of every leader. Great leaders make bringing others along with them their top priority and connect with people deeper because they care.  Someone once said, "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."  Engaging people from the heart is the answer for high-performing teams. Someone shared this insight. "Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back." Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Remember, humility and grace will protect and promote you.  Victory!        

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Setting goals is essential in accomplishing your purpose, vision, and results on your life and career journey. Great leaders set goals that challenge their faith and grow them as leaders as they go. The beauty of leadership is that all receive the call to serve and lead. The key is accepting the call and setting your goals and living by faith. Think about great leaders. Who comes to your mind?Walt Disney, Steve Jobs, Thomas J. Watson, Sr., and Joshua are a few that come to me. Their goals are "Big Hairy Audacious Goals."   In their book, Built to Last  Successful Habits of Visionary Companies, Jerry I Porras and Jim Collins believe that visionary companies commit to "Big Hairy Audacious Goals," while others resist. These goals provide the catalyst for innovative companies, and I will add leaders to move forward. Identity matters when setting goals. Great leaders discover that believing and faith are the critical first steps. Commitment precedes power. Someone once said regarding leadership, "You are the salt of the earth. You are the light of the world." These are growth mindset affirmations that impact and extend the reach of servant leadership. The real evidence of great leaders is the way they act. In Saltwater Leadership, Second Edition - A Primer on Leadership for the Sea Services, Second Edition, the authors point out that fully 97% of leadership is a growth mindset. They point to height, intelligence measured by IQ account for 3%.   The 97% includes attributes we can learn and develop - character, empathy, integrity, communications ability, hard work, bravery, compassion, competence, and resilience - through study, discernment, and practice. Patience, perseverance, and training are essential in becoming a great leader. This week a Summit Leader shared his desire to find his calling and make an impact by focusing his passion on the right thing.  Discernment and sound judgment are required. "Goals are a great way of thinking long. Goals are well-defined dreams that are measurable." "Goals are dreams with deadlines. If you don't give your dream a deadline, it will be dead before you know it. Deadlines keep dreams alive. Deadlines bring dreams back to life." Mark Batterson       Saltwater Leadership, Second Edition gives some practical advice for leaders.  Learn by reading books. Observe others. Take courses. Practice leadership principles. Seek growth experiences. Find a mentor or coach. Embrace the acronym "SPOM: Study, Practice, Observe and Mentor." Someone once said about leaders who set goals and live by faith, "For indeed we have the good news shared with us, just as they also; but the word they heard did not profit them, because it was not united by faith in those who heard." Take time to listen and set your goals by faith. Be bold, brave, and believe. Be strong and courageous. Where are you now? Begin with your vision. What is your dream?"Write down the vision, make it plain on the tablets, so that the reader may run with it. Keep it within your sight, for the vision points ahead to an appointed time.Even if there is a delay, wait for it. It is coming and will come without delay.    Victory!   

  Greetings, Summit Leaders. Each of us will face many decisions on our journey in life and career.  Someone asks, "Is there a process for choosing the right way?" Yes, by asking ourselves four key questions while taking the time to wait, reflecting on past victories in similar situations until we sense something within our heart saying, "this is the way, walk in it." The key questions are:1. Does this pathway align with my purpose in life and career?2. Does this choice I am making support my vision of myself as a leader?3. Will the path challenge me to exercise my faith?4. Will this road help me grow as a leader? Today, let's focus on the benefits of the process. 1. Discernment on the right path. We gain a fresh perspective by taking time to seek wisdom and insight.2. Conviction. We receive assurance that the road we are choosing is the right one.3. Courage. We gain new strength and boldness to take the next step forward to victory.4. Confidence. Our mind envisions the possibilities and outcomes ahead. We experience enthusiasm and resolve to do what's right. Remember the runner. You now see the end from the beginning. Now we are positioned to lead others with optimism, energy, and power gained through our process.  We affect those around us in a positive way through our speech, conduct, and attitude. We empower our family, friends, colleagues, clients, and all we serve.  We are using our gifts, talents, and abilities to their maximum capacity and impacting the world. Be encouraged, my friends. We are applying our minds to think the right way about our future. We will profit from the combination of right thinking, motives, and actions. Great victories are ahead for you. Do you believe it? I know you do!  Over the past two decades, in studying the lives of great leaders, we see a pattern for us to consider and follow.  When standing at the crossroads, look and ask for the ancient paths, ask where the right way is, walk in it, and we will experience the victory that is ours.  Here is a way to test the process: Study the lives of great leaders you admire to see how they responded at the crossroads. Evaluate the outcome of their way of life to determine if their approach will benefit you. Ask for discernment.  Discernment allows us to gain the proper perspective surrounding our decision. With understanding, we obtain the insight needed to choose the right pathway. Someone once said, "Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment."At that very moment, something happens inside our hearts! A spark ignites to light our way. We see the path we should choose and the best step to take!  Let me encourage you to try the procedure. I believe you will enjoy the benefits.  Until then, my friends, choose the right path and expect victory! Victory!   

Greetings, Summit Leaders. I love Summit Leaders! They are focused, dedicated, and disciplined for their life and career journey. Great leaders are continually growing in their knowledge, wisdom, and understanding, as well as sound judgment. They remember the battles they fought against fear, doubt, unbelief, and pride. They are intentionally alert to other enemies seeking to derail them on their life and career journey.   Two strong enemies are complacency and presumption. Everyone who has a leadership capacity is under continual attack by the enemy. Great leaders from long ago remind us to stay alert, for our enemy roams about like a lion seeking someone to devour. They overcame the enemy's tactics because they were steadfast in their faith. In starting our life and career journey, we tend to be on "high alert," giving our best, doing our best, and being our best. However, victory day by day can lull us into a sense of "I know the way." "I already know what to expect; therefore, I do not need as much preparation, insight, and wisdom." Thinking like this is deceiving—one of the tactics of our enemy.  The truth learned by every great leader is every day is a battle I have not experienced before and must meet with practiced disciplines, reflection, and discernment. They seek the truth about every circumstance. Someone once said, "You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free."  Great leaders are thankful for their victories and often reflect on their progress, and the victories won. In the process, they develop competency, character, empathy, gratitude, humility, and thanksgiving.  "Nothing so conclusively proves a man's ability to lead others as what he does from day to day to lead himself."Thomas J. Watson  What did I learn during that battle fought and won years ago? How did I respond when the odds were against us? What was my thinking like then and now? How do I best prepare for what I will face today? What am I most grateful for in my life and career journey? Who am I, and what will I become? What impact am I having in the lives of others?    The answers cause new pathways of thinking to be developed. Neuroscience says we build a new neuro pathway that leads to transformative thinking when we repeat a thought process enough times."Neurons that fire together wire together." As a person thinks in their heart, so they are. Out of gratitude, we seek to help and serve others with kindness, love, gentleness, and not just to get ahead by ourselves. A clean heart, clear conscience, and confident mind are qualities in every great leader. The future of a leader who practices the disciplines for leadership growth is one of the more remarkable things yet to come! The outcome of a focused, dedicated, and disciplined life is an expanded capacity to serve and influence others. "Do you see a person skilled in his work? He will stand in the presence of kings. He will not stand in the presence of the unknown." Great leaders expect, anticipate, and prepare for their future and those they serve.  Thank you for being that type of leader! Victory!  

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. This week I talked with a Summit Leader who pointed to a colleague who encourages the team at just the right time.   Everyone needs encouragement to keep fighting, not give up, and move forward for victory. Today, someone spoke an encouraging word for us. "But you, be strong and do not lose courage, for there is reward for your work." Circumstances can be misleading if we allow them to shift our focus from our vision and victory as leaders. Great leaders glance at the events but focus on the mission. The focus of faith frees us from fear. Nothing is more empowering than the quality of courage and the impact of an encourager. "Courage is rightly esteemed the first of human qualities… because it is the quality which guarantees others." Winston Churchill "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Maya Angelou  Your courageous response to challenges can impact a person, family, team, company, clients, and nation. Every great leader must go through testing times as they go on their life and career journey.How do we fight the negative thoughts that attack our minds?   Predetermine you will be ready with a heart of conviction and resolve. Say to yourself, "I will be patient, persevere and practice being steadfast, immovable, always abounding with the assurance that I am victorious." You envision your vision.  In his book, Make Your BED - Little Things that can Change your life... and Maybe the World, Admiral William H. McRaven shares the story of being in Navy SEAL training.  He recalls a Wednesday night of "Hell Week" during SEAL training. The purpose of Hell Week was to eliminate the weak, those not tough enough to be SEALS.  During this time, more people quit, and a test called the mudflats usually overcomes trainees. Bone-chilling cold in the evening winds, up to their chests in mud, hands, and feet that are swollen from non-stop use and skin so tender even the slightest movement brought discomfort.  At just the right time, one encourager began to sing! "One voice became two, and two became three, and then before long, everyone was singing."   Even those tempted to quit and give up gained new strength, courage, and confidence to complete the training. He recalls a key lesson learned and shares an insight. "The power of one person can inspire those around him, to give them hope. If that person could sing while neck-deep in mud, then so could we. If that person could endure the cold, then so could we. If that person could hold on, then so could we."Admiral William H. McRaven  Through your attitude and response, become an encourager, leading others from strength to strength, empowering them to become stronger and stronger.   You are strengthened and encouraged in the process. We reap what we sow, more than we sow, later than we sow. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as you are already doing.  Make it your mindset to encourage one another moment by moment and every day.   Victory! 

  Greetings, Summit Leaders. This week I had the opportunity to join over 700 leaders across the Americas with a common goal of becoming great leaders. It is one of the most impactful events, focusing on the tremendous opportunity to serve others, for breakthrough growth personally, professionally, and in business. During challenging times, the factor that makes the most significant impact is leadership. Your leadership matters to your family, friends, colleagues, clients, community, and the world. Now that we are here with the open door of incredible opportunity, we must believe and act.   Wherever you are and whatever the opportunity ahead, you will face opposition.   With every opportunity, there is opposition we encounter on our life and career journey. An expanded new territory is demanding and requires wisdom to know when to wait, rest, renew and continue moving forward.  They shall mount up with wings like eagles! Someone once said, "In return and rest, you will be saved. In quietness and trust will be your strength." Great leaders take time to refresh themselves, check their moral compass, and gain insight, wisdom, and sound judgment for the best decisions. This discipline is essential to ongoing success and sustained growth.  Going through your open door requires commitment, unity, and belief. It is belief and faith in action. Here are examples of three great leaders who went through the door of opportunity.  Commitment: A football team named the Green Bay Packers with a leader named Vince Lombardi in the 1960s became the standard for greatness.  His coaching greatness is unquestioned. At the end of every NFL Super Bowl, "The Lombardi Trophy" is raised in victory by the winning team. "Individual commitment to a group effort – that is what makes a team work, a company work, a society work, a civilization work. – Vince Lombardi   Unity: "My model for business is The Beatles. They were four guys who kept each other's kind of negative tendencies in check. They balanced each other, and the total was greater than the sum of the parts. That's how I see business: Great things in business are never done by one person; they're done by a team of people." Steve JobsBelief:  "I think if you do something and it turns out pretty good, then you should go do something else wonderful, not dwell on it for too long. Just figure out what's next." Steve JobsVince Lombardi believed in his team, and their commitment to excellence resulted in five championships.  The greatest accomplishment is not in never falling but in rising again after you fall. – Vince Lombardi What is your open door of opportunity?Do not allow fear, doubt, and unbelief to cause you to hesitate when you know how to walk by faith and not by sight.  "I felt as if I were walking with destiny and that all my past life had been but a preparation for this hour and for this trial... I thought I knew a good deal about it all. I was sure I should not fail."  ― Winston Churchill, The Second World War.  Victory!  

"Finding your pathway as a leader." Greetings, Summit Leaders. Wherever you are on your journey in career and life, we need a way of determining if we are on the right pathway.  Having a written purpose/vision statement for yourself is critical.  First, a vision statement requires thoughtful reflection on where I am, what I have experienced, and where I desire to land when I reach the desired destination. What impact will I have on others? You can protect yourself from unnecessary delays, setbacks, and losses associated with moving from your pathway in career and life. Without vision, people perish, dreams deferred, and opportunities bypass us. What are some of the things we can do to ensure we discover our true north?  A proven approach to finding true north is with a Global Positioning System (GPS). A GPS recognizes your location by compiling the location information provided by multiple satellites that orbit the earth.  If you have one, you can select a 'true north' setting on your GPS, enter your destination, and it will take care of the rest.  Here are some things you can be aware of and do to protect yourself on your life and career journey from getting off course.  Someone once said, "Keep asking, and it will be given to you. Keep searching, and you will find. Keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you." Here is an action plan.  Review, Reflect, Resolve.  Review: Take time each day to focus on your purpose, vision, and goals for your life. It can be refreshing to rehearse your mission and envision your success.  Reflect: Take the time to think through your experiences so far, what you have accomplished, and insights you are gaining. Often we discover new things about the value we are creating and a process for replicating this in new ways. Also, we become aware of skills, talents, gifts that may not have been apparent. It is in serving that we gain these insights.  Resolve: Be steadfast, immovable, and always abounding in your work and your vision. Be aware of distractions that lure you away from your calling, pathway, and purpose.   "Faster does not always mean better." Summit Leader  Secondly, there is safety in the multitude of counselors (your GPS); people with discernment are willing to point out the need to adjust your thinking and attitude and recommend needed course corrections. Make it a goal to include accountability partners for your life and career. These are the wise people you walk, stand, and sit with during your journey. Finally, we become aware of our thinking. Take captive every thought, not in alignment with your vision, purpose, and goals. Avoid listening to the wrong voices.  Practice by thinking and rehearsing the right thoughts. Be transformed by changing what you allow to dominate your thinking. "Sow a thought reap an action. Sow an action reap a habit. Sow a habit, reap a character, sow a character, reap a destiny." Ralph Waldo Emerson As a person thinks in their heart, so they are. "If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, ... the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours." Henry David Thoreau Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Rejoice! This day is a new day for us. "One we have never seen before and will never see again." How can we make the most of this day and impact others as we go? Many people we meet have visions and goals for themselves and need encouragement now and then during the rough times and those seasons of life and career when challenges beset us. The greatest asset a leader can possess is one of perseverance; not giving up or giving in nor turning back!   Perseverance is the faith, action, desire, determination, persistence, and belief that you will gain victory day by day and overcome challenges on your life and career journey.  "I'm convinced that about half of what separates the successful entrepreneurs from the non-successful ones is pure perseverance...Unless you have a lot of passion about this, you're not going to survive. You're going to give it up."  Steve Jobs The experience, insight, wisdom, and grace they experience make them impactful as leaders. Endurance provides the opportunity to share and help others at just the right time. When we do, we ignite a process in the lives of all we encounter on our journey. I call it the great adventure. As we pursue more outstanding works, we find opportunities to help others along the way. Our influence and impact of our lives grow as we remain faithful in doing what's right. "Perseverance is a positive, active characteristic. It is not idly, passively waiting and hoping for some good thing to happen. It gives us hope by helping us realize that the righteous suffer no failure except in giving up and no longer trying. We must never give up, regardless of temptations, frustrations, disappointments, or discouragements." Joseph P. Wirthlin Small acts of kindness kindle a sense of purpose and fulfillment in living and working. Our level of perseverance affects the impact of our testimony. Our stories often lift people. Persistence enables us to write our stories and positions us to help others we meet on our life and career journeys. "I would have despaired had I not believed that I would see the goodness of the LORD In the land of the living." King David Who will I encourage to finish and not quit or give up today?How can I make an impact? Lead by intentionally making your goal to take many with you toward the "greater works" together. "I do not think there is any other quality so essential to the success of any kind as the quality of perseverance. It overcomes almost everything, even nature." John D. Rockefeller  Someone once said, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." “Some people plant in the spring and leave in the summer. If you're signed up for a season, see it through. You don't have to stay forever, but at least stay until you see it through.” Jim Rohn Summit Leaders, let's Persevere! It's harvest time! Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders.We are ready for a breakthrough in our lives and business!Unity is a powerful attribute that makes a difference in life and business.Someone said, "A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken."Every great team, leader, company, or family has unity as a core attribute. Great leaders understand their opportunity to create an environment where everyone can flourish and "make every effort to keep the oneness of the Spirit in the bond of peace; each person is working together to make the whole successful."Summit Leaders are experiencing the value of working together as a team, enabling them to learn from one another. Their teamwork encourages creativity and learning through their shared knowledge and expanding new skill sets while working together. They see that working towards a common goal creates enthusiasm for learning and fosters growth. Leadership includes awareness, being alert, and being diligent in our conversations, actions, and attitude.Two questions every great leader asks; "Am I impacting my team, clients, company, family for good by the words of my mouth, actions, and attitude?""Am I using my gifts, talents, skills, and abilities to serve as best I know how?" The alignment of the two is the first step to eminence.  The SELDI podcast "The 3 F's for eminence" shares three attributes (Focus, Faithfulness, Favor) and benefits to consider.I invite you to listen and reflect on the big ideas and apply them as leaders.Principle 7: The 3 F's for Eminence - Focus, Faithfulness, FavorPodcast Linkhttps://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/seldi/episodes/2018-03-14T18_45_58-07_00 Victory! 

 Greetings, Summit Leaders.  I am encouraged by my conversations with Summit Leaders who describe themselves as "servant leaders." They are intentional in their thinking about their vision to have a positive impact on people. One Summit Leader shares how she coached a group of high school lacrosse players following a career-ending injury. I asked her to recall someone from years ago who experienced a positive transformation during their time together. Immediately, with a big smile, she remembered that one person whose life is now different because of her influence. The potential of our impact by our life and actions is immeasurable. People observe us, see qualities and perspectives, and attributes that resonate with them. Today, you will engage with people who will benefit from your leadership. Caring for others with authenticity connects with people at a deeper level.    Another Summit shared how a colleague said several words that encouraged and inspired her during a stressful moment at work.She did not know that her words inspired and motivated her colleague.Attitude matters in life and business.   "You never know what a moment and a few sincere words can have an impact on a life." Zig Ziglar Your optimism, affirmation, faith, and presence can be a bright light in the lives of so many people. It has been said, "you are the salt of earth and light of the world." So, "Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person."  I admire Summit Leaders who decide to become a strong influence for good and purposefully lead their lives with the motivation of helping others. A "caring" heart helps us connect with family, friends, colleagues, clients, and everyone we meet. Great leaders focus on caring about the one person in front of them. The willingness to care for one multiplies our capacity to influence many. "A good head and a good heart are always a formidable combination." Nelson Mandela   This week, a Summit Leader shared his vision. "My career vision for IBM is to gain an understanding of IBM systems and culture to provide exceptional value to all my clients and colleagues. As a future manager, I plan to support and encourage the next generation to become the best that they can be." Summit Leader   He shares the impact that one IBM Manager had on him during an IBM internship. "He was the biggest influence in making me feel more confident in my ability. I said to myself, "Wow! That's someone I want to emulate. I want to help people understand their value." A person does not care how much you know until they know how much you care for them. "Blessed is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another." -George Eliot. Summit Leaders are asking how I can help others? They seek opportunities to encourage their colleagues. They are impacting the culture through their influence. Every great leader has one person whose influence that they will never forget. "A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives."Jackie Robinson Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Rejoice! Again, I say rejoice!   We have a great opportunity before us to experience what great leaders enjoy every day. They lead themselves in intentionally living purposeful lives.  A Summit Leader shared this quote, "Nothing so conclusively proves a man's ability to lead others as what he does from day to day to lead himself."Thomas J. Watson We are together on this journey in life and career. If you are starting this month or have many years of your life and career journey, the exciting truth is that you can always be fruitful and productive. See a person diligent in their business. They will stand before kings and not obscure people. Early career professionals and experienced career leaders coming together with a common objective is a powerful combination. Each one profoundly respects the other, and as iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Someone once said, "Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors, they succeed."Today, an IBM sales veteran shared this insight with a new Summit leader during this week's training conversation. "You know what you are going to do. You don't know who you will meet. People will propel your career. Know who you are and why you are doing your work. That person you meet may touch your life and make a difference in your life journey." Think about someone who touched your life and made an impact for your good. Seek to be that person now in another's life. At the start of your journey, there is a great promise; "you will be like a tree planted by rivers of water; yielding its fruit in season, whose leaf does not wither and whatever you do it will prosper." Understanding and embracing the promise gives the courage to start, perseverance to keep moving forward, and strengthens you for continuing the race before us.Those ahead of you have their promise, too; they will be fruitful and still green with vigor and life even in the coming seasons.Someone once said,"They will still produce fruit in old age and will stay fresh and green." Who can you team with on your journey in life and career, knowing that a productive and fruitful life awaits you? Think about the impact of pouring yourself into another and that person. Life and career grow sweeter, more fulfilling, and adventurous when we work together.   There is power in caring for each other, and that's the culture and attitude Summit Leaders worldwide are embracing. What are we building when we exercise caring for one another? When we love our neighbor, as we do ourselves, we create impact and legacy.What is your impact as a caring leader? •Culture: Who we desire to be. •Attitude: A mindset of optimism. •Reimagine: Innovation, Envision the vision. •Engage: Collaborate for action. •Skills: Commit to growth for all.  Summit Leaders care! Victory!        

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Change is inevitable and is the friend of great leaders. Great leaders understand that change is necessary for growth. They embrace change as being part of something new! "I am so grateful to be a part of 'I am doing something new. Now it springs forth. Do you not see it." Perspective on change is vitally important. The mindset of gratitude dominates the thinking of great leaders during change.  They see change as transformational for them personally and professionally. The results are a more significant impact on their journey in life and career while influencing others for good as they go. Thinking the right thoughts is their focus in leadership and living.Someone once said, "As a man or woman thinks in their heart, so they are." Change requires the correct thought patterns because the enemies of every great leader are always lurking. "I wrestled with the imposter syndrome but overcame it." Summit Leader.How can we become the leaders we envision, have the impact we desire, and the success we are working to achieve? Guard our thinking.Be alert! Take captive every thought not in alignment with your purpose and vision. Build a grid system to protect your thinking and exercise it with patience, perseverance, and practice.Let these virtues become part of your cerebral defense system. "Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." Great leaders understand it takes practice to develop disciplined thinking for everything. They focus on the results and outcomes - transformational leadership starts with one. Sometimes it appears they are the "wild duck." They do not allow this world to mold them in its image. Instead, they are transformed from the inside out by renewing their mind. I love to observe beautiful butterflies. They remind me of the process great leaders undergo. Their growth requires effort to work their way through their journey from a caterpillar to a cocooned pupa and pressing outward until a breakthrough to become what providence built in them. Please remember that your growth is determined by how you treat people, respond to circumstances, and what we allow to dominate our thinking. Outstanding accomplishments begin with one, then a few people who believe it is possible. One person with faith can be the catalyst that changes a family, company, community, and nation. She does not despise the day of small beginnings. They know the one who is faithful over little will receive the opportunity to be a good steward over much.  Summit Leaders stay the course, keep the faith, guard their thinking and keep fighting. The victory is assured. Let me hear you say, "I will give you victory!" So, the pupa hears the appeal and perseveres, emerging victorious. Your transformational leadership is needed to acquire new customers, delight the current ones, and together grow worldwide! Someone once said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed. It is the only thing that ever has." According to your faith, be it done unto you. Victory!   

 Greetings, Summit Leaders. Congratulations on the position you hold and the service you are providing! This week, I asked a new group of IBM Garage leaders to answer these two questions. Do you believe you are supposed to be here in your role? Do you think it is an accident that you are here? Unanimously they all believe that they are supposed to be here. They are correct in their belief, and so are all the Summit Leaders believing that they are here for such a time as this. Believers move at a different pace than others. Because they understand and discern their life and career journey have purpose and meaning, they do not make hasty decisions. The one who believes will not make haste. The frenzy of activity and rush to get as much done as possible in the shortest amount of time is not the pathway to "success." It often leads to desperation, confusion and anxiety, and a sense of being overwhelmed. Someone once said, "You do not save any time by working too fast; hurrying will cause you to make mistakes, and you will have to take extra time to do the job over again."  There is a better way. Whoever believes will not make haste.  It requires patience, discernment, and wisdom to determine which opportunities are yours and those that are not. Taking time to pause and reflect for further instruction helps us see more clearly. There is protection available in this approach. Great leaders do not rush ahead because of the perils of losing time, more significant opportunities, and blessings. Experience is teaching them when they move too quickly; they can experience pain and loss. "Returning and resting is what will save you; calmness and confidence will make you strong."  Great leaders learn the principle of actively waiting. They have a sense of being guided by providence and move forward believing when the time is right. All things are possible to those who believe and act at the right time. The focus of faith frees us from fear. Their hearts are clean, conscience is clear, and mind is confident. Their belief encourages others along the path chosen for them. At just the right time, opportunity, place, and circumstance, their presence, influence, and words of hope and encouragement impact people, places, events, and outcomes. Someone once encouraged many in sharing their experience; "When you walk, your steps are firm. When you run, you will not stumble. I will instruct you in the way of wisdom and lead you along straight paths." The results of waiting, gaining insight, discernment, and instruction are excellent. You are here for such a time as this! If you are changing assignments, jobs, positions, or location, see the purpose in your situation, understand, and maybe you are in a place to help when the need arises. Wisdom, strength, favor, grace, and help you need to complete your assignment come at just the right time.   Be encouraged! "Behold, I am doing something new." Now is the time! Victory!     

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Rejoice in the new opportunities in front of us as leaders! Our response is to be one of faith and boldness with confidence to move forward to more incredible accomplishments. Some of our most significant accomplishments and impact can be inside the little opportunities. Don't despise the day of small beginnings. Be faithful to take the steps required of us.  Today, I heard a new Summit Leader say, "the success we see today in IBM's 100+ year story is the result of the accumulation of good decisions." Wisdom, discernment, knowledge, and understanding are vitally important in the lives of great leaders for deciding, who to hire, when to call, what steps to take, and knowing when it's wise to wait.  Today, great leaders are essential during times of change, uncertainty, and challenges. One attribute that we see in the lives of great leaders is integrity. "Integrity is the seed for achievement. It is the principle that never fails." Earl Nightingale. How do great leaders make their calling and election as leaders sure? "Many people begin the process of changing their habits by focusing on what they want to achieve. This leads us to outcome-based habits. The alternative is to build identity-based habits. With this approach, we start by focusing on who we wish to become." James Clear Atomic Habits Integrity! This mindset dominates the thinking of great leaders. It is one of the most empowering attributes in the heart of a leader.  Great leaders operate from a position of a clean heart, a clear conscience, and a confident mind. Their success in impacting the lives of those they lead and the outcome of their decisions abides in integrity.  David, an ancient warrior and a king of Israel, demonstrates integrity during his leadership of the nation of Israel. His vision to be a leader who impacts the lives of others is seen in his prayer. "Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you." King David. His leadership qualities and wisdom are seen in many great leaders today.  "So, he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands." Summit Leaders are grateful for their calling as leaders! They are practicing gratitude for their opportunity to lead. Great leaders understand that their effectiveness is in how they connect with people.   Others follow them because they see the light and value in their leadership.Someone encourages us with this quote. "Therefore, my friends, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities, you will never fall." "A life lived with integrity – even if it lacks the trappings of fame and fortune is a shining star in whose light others may follow in the years to come."— Denis Waitley Someone once said, "No one lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a bowl; instead, it is placed on the lampstand so that people may see the light as they come in." Summit Leaders are letting their light shine for our colleagues and the ever-growing number of clients in this generation and the future generations to follow. They are finding favor in their sight!   Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders! I love Summit Leaders!  They are some of the most dedicated, committed, and confident people I know.  Why is this possible? They have vision! Most of them have a written vision statement to keep focused on what matters most! Now faith is being sure of what you hope for and certain about what you cannot see. We see our vision through the miracle of our minds and our faith. When we believe, we act. We begin to work in a focused, dedicated, and disciplined way, moving toward the vision we envision. When preparation meets opportunity, there is a starburst effect for even greater works.  Recently, a group of leaders sent me copies of their vision statements.They show their purpose for living and direction for how they plan on developing and preparing for their future. We should remember that every vision has enemies to derail us from our pathway. The enemies are fear, doubt, unbelief, and many others. Understanding the nature of the battle is the first step to victory. The battlefield is in our mind, our thinking! The greater our potential and responsibilities, the stronger the attacks are from the enemies. Every day, we enter the battlefield for our minds.   Someone once said, "Your life will always move in the direction of your strongest thoughts." Great leaders focus their thinking. What we allow to dominate our thinking will affect us as leaders.   When we believe, our thought process is expectation, anticipation, and preparation. "I will prepare, and someday my chance will come." Abraham Lincoln Great leaders examine their thought patterns to see if they are believing or held captive by fears, doubts, and unbelief. The one who believes makes plans for the vision. They work with an expectant attitude which gives them hope even when the way is hard. Daily they practice the disciplines on their life and career journey while anticipating the results of their labor. They work to prepare themselves for the arrival of what they envision.  Wherever you are on your journey, be alert! The enemy prowls like a roaring lion, seeking to destroy. Resist by being immovable in your faith. Remember Career Principle # 3. The Three C's are Empowering.  Conviction: Knowing that I am in the right place and the right time. Courage: Someone said, "Courage is the fearless calmness, quality of mind and spirit enabling us to meet danger, opposition or the challenges of life with fearless, calmness and firmness." Confidence:  We have a mindset of victory, conquest, and resolve that it will happen.  Summit Leader, be strong and courageous.   One great leader shared this insight. "Always think about what is true. Think about what is noble, right, and pure. Think about what is lovely and worthy of respect. If anything is excellent or worthy of praise, think about those kinds of things." A friend wrote an encouraging note to me, "Do what you have done - "take every thought captive" continue to be "transformed by the renewing of your mind." My friends, I share this encouragement with you for your life and career journey! Let us hear the encouraging word, "I will give you victory!"  Victory!  

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Rejoice! Again, I say rejoice. Think about your gifts, talents, abilities, and skills.Think about the opportunities you have now to exercise them in serving and impacting others on your life and career journey. We are here for such a time as this! After the victory, when we experience success, we tend to drift in practicing the disciplines that positioned us for more excellent works. Someone shared this quote with me today. "If the ax is dull and its edge unsharpened, more strength is needed, but skill will bring success."  How can we keep "The Edge" as leaders? Associate with the wise and be wise. Encourage each other and challenge one another to remain steadfast and faithful in pursuing excellence in everything we do.   "Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the ax."   ― Abraham Lincoln  Someone once said, "As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend." Skills, talents, gifts, and abilities are exercised like a muscle to build and grow and get stronger as we go. Great leaders are responsible. They believe in personal responsibility in all their relationships.They guard themselves against the enemy of complacency, doubt, and fear. They understand "To whom much given much is required." I heard of three servants called before a great king.He was going on a trip and turned his money over to them. He gave five talents to one man, another two, and another one, based on their ability. Then he went on his trip. The first two servants worked right away, invested the money, and received double returns on their investments.But the one who received one talent went off, dug a hole in the ground, and buried his Master's money. After a long time, the Master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. The first two gave excellent accounts on how they doubled the money entrusted to them. 'Well done, good and trustworthy servants! Since you've been trustworthy with a small amount, I'll put you in charge of a large amount. Come and share your Master's joy!' The third servant gave an account of his fear preventing him from acting wisely."Since I was afraid, I went off and hid your talent in the ground. Here, take what's yours!'His Master answered him, 'You evil and lazy servant! You know I expected more. You should have invested, and at least I would receive interest on my money. Throw this useless servant into the darkness outside! Take the talent from him and give it to the man who has the ten.  The faithful one receives more and will have more than enough." Then the king shared the secret for keeping "The Edge" as a leader. The final advice from the king; "Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write this truth deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation." The king gives great insight from an ancient story for today's leaders wherever we are on our journey in life and career. Keep "The Edge" Summit Leaders! You are giving your best today! It yields the best for days ahead of you! Believe it! Victory!   

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Congratulations!   You are emerging from some of the most challenging times in our lifetime. Your perseverance, patience, and faith all contributed to your ability to navigate the storm. You persevered and adapted. You believed and encouraged others along the way. Someone once said, "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen."   We are at the edge of breakthrough growth in every area of our lives. How should we think about navigating the events and making the decisions in our daily lives?  Great leaders seek wisdom to lead well. Someone asks, "What does wisdom look like?" and received this response. "Wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere." Now is our time to continue practicing the disciplines so vital for every leader. Perhaps none is as important as seeking and acquiring wisdom. I remember reading a quote that said, "The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; And with your possessions acquire understanding." Many great leaders who have lived before us discovered the value of wisdom in their lives and careers. For example, Thomas J. Watson, Sr. emphasized the vital quality of wisdom in our career success.  "In these times... all businesses are looking for something that will aid them. You will have to explain more things to more people, but that is all to your advantage because, in that way, you obtain more training. In connection with that point, do not forget that you will need something in addition to knowledge. You must have wisdom. Without wisdom, knowledge is useless. Wisdom is the power that enables us to make practical use of our knowledge." Thomas J. Watson, Sr.  Continuous learning and growth are essential in every leader's life. The distinctive quality of wisdom is what helps our leadership and success endure in all circumstances.   Our families, colleagues, clients, and communities are the beneficiaries of the benefits of our wisdom. Wisdom gives us the ability to discern the right decision and timing even though it may seem counterintuitive.  Someone once said, "before you accept an invitation, implement a plan, sign your name to anything, agree to participate in any venture, ask yourself three questions. What is the wise thing to do based on my previous experience? What is the wise thing to do in light of my present state of mind? What is the wise thing to do in light of my future vision, goals, and dreams?"  The benefits of wisdom in our business help us acquire new clients, serve existing ones, grow as leaders, and impact everyone we meet. Someone once said, "Getting wisdom is the most important thing you can do! And with your wisdom, develop common sense and good judgment. The one who walks with the wise will become wise, but a companion of fools will suffer harm." The best future awaits those who practice wisdom!  Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders! I admire greatly the leaders who understand their calling and surrender to it.  Great leaders focus on serving others and step forward in faith.   In the development of their vision, the opportunities for more excellent works emerge. Here is one vision statement I received last week for a member of "The Accelerate 150."  They are a group of leaders in colleges across America. "After thinking deeply about my vision, I couldn't help feeling scared. I thought that this is it; growing up is inevitable, and the world, at least my world, is in my very hands. I have spent so much time worrying and thinking and planning to find out that life never really has a strict plan. There are ways to go about things and a deeper meaning to life than that. It is so important to realize why you are here and who you are. My vision does not have a strict plan, but rather just a little list of lessons I have learned growing up in this fast-paced world. These lessons range from many different things, but most importantly, a few.  1) Always remember your loved ones and always treat those who care about you with love and respect always. Please do it for them while also doing it for yourself. 2) Change for the better is always okay. Never feel as if you do not need to change. Each day you can get better, whether physically or mentally, so push yourself. 3) If life hits you, do not feel guilty. Things happen, and although you may want to push and push, things happen constantly! Thank you for reading and taking the time to see my little vision I have right now. I am currently and always trying to get better. Thank you again, Tony!" Who are you serving? Getting this question right is the indispensable first step to extraordinary, transformational leadership and lifetime impact.  How can great leaders endure the tests and challenges that come on their life and career journey?   "I will prepare, and someday my chance will come." Abraham Lincoln Mr. Lincoln is a model example of outstanding leadership.  In studying his life, you discern a process that most great leaders experience. Great leaders act and have a sense of purpose for their lives.  Someone once said: "Don't lose a minute in building on the opportunities given, complementing your essential faith with good character, spiritual understanding, alert discipline, passionate patience, reverent wonder, warm friendliness, and generous love.  Each dimension fits into and develops the others. With these qualities active and growing in your lives, you grow and are fruitful in all seasons of life." "Adhere to your purpose, and you will soon feel as well as you ever did. On the contrary, if you falter and give up, you will lose the power of keeping any resolution and will regret it all your life." Abraham Lincoln  Like other great leaders, make your calling and election sure. "I'm a success today because I had a friend who believed in me, and I didn't have the heart to let him down." Abraham Lincoln Be faithful to your calling as a leader because the one who calls you is faithful.  Be strong and courageous! Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Congratulations! You are on your way toward your vision.Discover and experience the "The Power of a Vision." Finding our purpose in life begins with "vision"! SELDI Career Principle # 1 "Vision is essential." Definition" "How one sees or conceives of something. Showing competence in discernment or perception; and intelligent foresight." Please take time to review your vision or create one. We want to encourage you to take time in your busy schedule to reflect for a few minutes. It's easy to get engaged in a frenzy of activity and somehow overlook your purpose for living and work. On April 5, 2017, we published the first SELDI blog, named "Time Out Wednesday!" You notice in competition teams take "time outs." Many people practice "quiet time." It's a time of reflection, refreshment, and resolving to go forward. Principle #1: Vision is essential.Action: What's your vision? Write down your vision for yourself. It can be brief, but try to capture your purpose on paper and in your mind.Purchase for yourself a notebook to record the stages of your journey. It will become a source of personal inspiration as you move ahead and provide insights to share with others as you lead in life and your career. Vision starts in the heart and mind. Therefore guard your heart above all things because out of it come the issues of life. As a man or woman thinketh in their heart, so they are. Principle Application:Practice your vision.Think it through.: (What impact do I want to have with my colleagues, clients, family, community, and the world?)Please write it down. : (The mechanics of writing make a more profound impression in our minds than just typing.)Speak it out!: (Rehearse aloud your vision statement until you memorize it.)Guard against the derailment of your vision. .               Avoid misplaced priorities and motivations.  Would you please reflect on these three empowering words to add to your thinking about your vision? Attitude, Believe, Conviction. "Sow a thought, and you reap an action; sow an action, and you reap a habit; sow a habit, and you reap a character; sow a character, and you reap a destiny." Ralph Waldo Emerson. I went back to my first steps in experiencing "The Power of a Vision" in Volume 1 on my life and career journal. "Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so they may run who reads it." We reap what we sow, more than we sow, later than we sow. Summit Leaders, let's keep moving forward. The best is yet to be! Believe it! Victory!   

Greetings, Summit Leaders. This week I spoke with several Summit Leaders regarding their journey thus far in IBM and life. Two quotes came from them that I believe represent the mindset of Summit Leaders everywhere. "I think it is going to be a fun adventure!" Summit LeaderAs he reflected on the challenges he overcame, the perseverance to keep going when things were tough. He asked "deeper" questions about, "How can we do this better?"    His leadership team liked his thinking and ideas and placed him in a new role that delights him about the future. He is excited about a new role in Kyndryl.  "Change is coming, and going through it taught me some valuable lessons." - Summit Leader. Another Summit Leader shared, "I believe that all I desire in a career is available to me here at IBM. I have to decide and go after what I want." Any new assignment can be challenging for anyone. The key is how we respond. Be bold and courageous on your life and career journey. The great adventure seeks our purpose and begins to discover who we are, our skills, talents, gifts, and capacity to serve others. The most incredible adventure in life and career is rooted in serving others. If anyone among you wishes to be great, let that person become a servant to all. When using our gifts, talents, and skills in this way, we sharpen them and multiply our capacity for effectiveness and impact in creating value as a leader. We connect with people in our family, company, and clients, and community more deeply. In the process, we are transforming by renewing our minds to think like servant leaders. We radiate, "I care more about you." We begin to care deeply about those we serve. We distinguish ourselves as leaders in the eyes of our family, colleagues, clients, and the community. "We care more about you." is our motivation. With the right motives, a clean heart, clear conscience, and confident mind, we serve at a higher level. Our clients tell our story, and our report will spread around the world. Think about a time when you made a significant purchase through someone. What qualities did that person display that won your trust and confidence? They cared more about you. Summit Leaders embody this attitude of caring more about you. That's why the most fantastic surprise will be the outcome of the most incredible adventure. The latter glory will be greater than the former glory for you, our colleagues, our company's culture, our clients, and our communities worldwide. "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care" ― Theodore Roosevelt.  "As a leader, your goal is to create and nurture a relationship by focusing on how you can best serve." James Strock Serve to Lead 2.0 21st Century Leaders Manual. As we focus on "We care more about you." Others will tell our story. Everyone likes a good story!   Summit Leaders are writing this story everywhere they go! Victory! 

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Today is the day of opportunity for us! We have the gifts, skills, talents, abilities, and know-how to become everything we envision for ourselves, IBM, and new customers! The timing is now. Be joyful that you are here for such a time as this! Take every opportunity before us. We must not delay, slow down, or back off. Great leaders hear the encouraging words of the battle-tested who trained them so well for this day of opportunity; "we have not received the spirit of fear but of power, love, and a sound mind." Think about all the resources, innovations, growing numbers of new clients, and opportunities before you. Boldly seize each one for you are more than able to take full advantage of each opportunity, big and small. Someone once said, "For those to whom much is given, much is required." Remain faithful to your vision through preparation, patience, and practice. All these things are working together for your good. A Summit Leader I admire celebrates her fifth anniversary with IBM in just a few weeks. She is faithful to her vision and committed to the journey. She embodies the spirit of all the Summit Leaders! Her success is having an impact on IBM, our clients, and her community! "Going above and beyond each day while positively impacting other IBMers through synergistic collaboration; helping as many people as possible with projects, participating actively and with a positive attitude, and leaving a lasting impact on those around me through my actions." 2016 Summit Leader's vision statement. It's summer! This week marks the new season for everything! Seize the opportunity and the time for you as a leader in IBM, your family, clients, community, and beyond. I once heard someone sing, "It's a new season, and it's a new day. A fresh anointing is flowing our way. It's a season of power and prosperity; it's a new season, and it's coming to me." Before achieving his victory, one great leader stated, "For a great door is opened to me, filled with opportunities and many opponents." How do great leaders prevail and win every opportunity! They have conviction, belief, and take action in faith. They hear, "Be strong and courageous." Summit Leaders are like them. They are strong and do great exploits! If you have a growing list of opportunities, see them not as tasks but impact choices you will make each day! Together, these are the days for us to be bold, brave, and confident. It's our privilege to build each other up with our gifts, talents, and abilities. When you stir up your gift within you, it ignites a flame that's almost out and becomes a consuming fire. When you do, all that is needed is yours to accomplish more wondrous works and tremendous success for all we serve. "If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet with a success unexpected in common hours." Henry David Thoreau Our 5th year Summit Leader proves that all things are possible to the person who believes. Summit Leaders shout, "We believe!" Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Be encouraged today if you are facing the impossible! Count it all joy when you face various trials knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance and let endurance have its perfect result so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing in life and career journey. Recall a situation that "impossible" is the only word to describe it. How did you make it through? Reflect on the events and the insights you gained. Great leaders experience the impossible on their life and career journey. Yet, the common theme for victory is their faith in believing they can overcome. All things are possible to the one who believes. Kober is a friend and IBM sales colleague. I recall one year when I asked him how his sales performance was going. "It looks terrible. In all my years of selling, I can’t recall something worse. It doesn't look like I am going to make my numbers." The time was around October in the sales year. December 31 was his deadline which was impossible at the time. My best encouragement to him was to keep the faith and pray. Fast forward, to December of that year, Kober won one of the most significant sales opportunities in his career and achieved over 200% of his sales objective. We rejoiced over his victory! General Dwight D. Eisenhower, a leading general in WWII, encouraged his troops to prepare for victory in the D-day invasion of June 6, 1944. "You are about to embark upon the Great Crusade, toward which we have striven these many months. The eyes of the world are upon you. The hope and prayers of liberty-loving people everywhere march with you." Dwight D. Eisenhower "Pray = Power, Resolve, Awakening You." Facing the impossible tests a leader's faith, resolve, courage, and conviction. Their faith reminds them that all things are possible to you who believe. They ask for victory, seek it in their preparation and planning, and knock against the impossible by taking action. Understanding the true nature of the battle in life and career helps us develop the right mindset for victory. Recalling past victories strengthens our faith, resolve, and courage. Believing that we are in the right place at the right time, doing the right things with the right motivation brings the conviction to pray and not quit, Great leaders move forward with confidence toward the impossible, believing that they will experience the fulfillment of their beliefs. They are engaged in the battle with you! One great leader encouraged those following him to "Fear not for I am with you!" A clean heart. A clear conscience. A confident mind. This mindset ignites bravery and action in others by what they see in you. "We become what we think about most of the time." Earl Nightingale We see victory and refuse to quit or turn back and encourage others as we move forward. Someone wisely said, "According to your faith be it done unto you." When facing the impossible, remembering your faith, prayer, and past victories will give us the confidence we need to win! Victory!

The British Prime Minister has opened the G7 summit calling for lessons to be learned from the pandemic - and for the recovery to be green and more equally spread. Israel ex-top spy reveals Mossad operations against Iran. Hong Kong to censor films that ‘endanger national security'.

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Each of us has a pathway for our life and career journey. The exciting part of life is an awareness that there is a pathway for us as leaders. Life presents challenges, tests, and trials that often keep us from discovering our pathway. Every new job is a challenge - even for the most experienced leaders. Faith ignites the conviction, courage, and confidence needed to make it a great adventure. It takes perseverance to keep going with the expectation that we will find our path, purpose, and plan for ourselves as leaders. Someone once encouraged us to keep on asking, seeking and knocking. Persistence; not giving up matters. Believe it will open for us; if we don't quit. Great leaders throughout history applied the principles they observed in the leaders in front of them. Today, a Summit Leader shared her faith in believing that she is here for a purpose and saw the challenges, doubts, and tests as opportunities to build her confidence and prepare her for more excellent leadership. Leaders before us can provide the principles, show the evidence, and model responses that help us accelerate our growth and train us in rightly responding. Moses was considered one of the most outstanding leaders in ancient times; he modeled bold and courageous leadership for his assistant, Joshua. He advised those he led to be careful and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them slip from your hearts as long as you live. Great leaders throughout history are eager to teach others and help them go further and accomplish even greater works. A great leader's pathway is narrow. Her belief, conviction, character, integrity, and determination enable her to keep going, from victory to victory. With each victory, she grows and gains strength for the vital, the more significant challenges ahead. She understands that her life's purpose is not comfort but preparing for the maximum impact on those she meets on her path. Whatever your opportunities, big and small, don't shrink back in unbelief but boldly and joyfully enter into each of them! Work heartily. There is a great reward when we stay on the path. It is far more than we can ask or imagine according to the power at work in us. "Not all storms come to disrupt your life. Some come to clear your path." It's a new season! It's a new day! As long as the world exists, there will be a time for planting and a time for harvest. There will always be cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night. Trust that staying true to your path will surely bring you a harvest. Envision your path leading to an open door of great opportunity to impact IBM, new customers in new ways, your family, communities, and all those you serve on your journey. Our new territory is in front of us. One brave leader said, "Let us go up at once and take possession of it, for we will certainly conquer it." Summit Leaders believe it! Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Rejoice! There is hope for all who aspire to do more outstanding works of service. Hope for the future is one of the most empowering attributes great leaders exercise in their lives. "A leader is a dealer in hope." Napoleon Bonaparte There are several critical benefits of hope in our thinking. A leader's mental health matters immensely. Life events, disappointments, the delayed realization of our vision become the "slow leaks" in our emotions. The gradual effect is unnoticed until we recognize we are living a less than abundant life. Hope ignites our passion for the gift of life and career. "Where there is hope... there is life." Anne Frank When you summon hope, it helps your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. You then are most effective in the good works you are engaging. Here are some of the health benefits of hope. • Hope can reduce physical pain. • Hope may boost circulation and respiration. • Hope, optimism and a positive outlook help protect against chronic illnesses. Psychology Today - The Health Benefits of Hope" by Andrea Bonior, Ph.D. Great leaders throughout time discovered the impact of hope in their lives and leadership. Their example inspires those they meet and serve on their journey. People begin to see life with a fresh perspective through meeting them- they become the catalyst for a new vision. With vision, people have discipline, focus, and meaning for every activity. A new image of the future is an adventure to go where you have never gone before, do what you have not done before and attempt to accomplish the impossible. In the process, a leader is transformed from fearful to brave, doubting to believing, wavering to decisive, stalled to activated by faith. A great leader's optimism helps them see more positive potential outcomes and not overgeneralize the negative. Someone once said of Abraham, a great leader from ancient times, as someone who "In hope against hope he believed" so that he could become a transformational leader and accomplish great things. Your life as a leader is having a ripple effect as you engage people with a clean heart, clear conscience, and confident mind. Every family member, each new client, a friend, and someone you meet as you go is a "ripple effect opportunity." The impact of great leaders' lives exponentially grows as they remain faithful in the small beginnings. Our words can be encouraging "I know the plans I have for you... plans to prosper you, not to harm you, to give you hope and a future." As you go, "make new" becomes the new story you write. "Behold, I am doing something new. Now it springs forth, do you not see it." Recently, I heard someone say, "I see it! I see it now!" They were awakened to the new chapter and resolving to write their story with a new theme. So it is with us, my friends. Wherever we find ourselves on the journey of life and career, we see it as the new season for impact, joy, and growth. You are in the right place at the right time, doing the right things. You are here for such a time as this! What story are you writing? Great leaders are bold, strong, and carry out great exploits! Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Be encouraged, my friends, because you are preparing now for the best! I am always inspired when I speak with Summit Leaders and recently a group of IBM Summit Interns by their optimism about the future. As I listen to their stories and journey thus far, it is impressive to see the leadership attributes they developed during times of challenge and testing. Qualities such as perseverance, persistence, practice, honesty, and vision are their leadership attributes. Every great leader develops distinctive qualities by responding appropriately to their challenges on their life and career journeys. Now, today is the day to prepare for the best in your life and career! There is an excellent opportunity for significant and growing work that is open to us now. And there are many adversaries. Great leaders exercise their faith and step into the possibility. Every time we receive a new opportunity, one of the wisest things we can do is think back on our journey and the faithfulness we experienced in gaining victory over fear, "imposter syndrome," doubt, and unbelief. Remember, Reflect and Resolve. Remember the victories won thus far. How did you respond then, and what is your best response now? Reflect on the insights you gained along the way as you persevered, persisted, and practiced disciplines to win. One leader described being homeless for a while but persevered, kept her faith, completed school, and is now thriving as a college student and IBM intern. Resolve to keep going and not quit. Never give up! is the attitude I repeatedly hear in the stories of Summit Leaders. The opportunity is tremendous, and to whom much is given, much is required—faithfulness matters on the journey. One Summit Leader speaks of the disciplined practices that help him perform at his best and be adaptable to changing circumstances. Preparing for the vision you have for the future is a step in faith great leaders take and encourage us to do the same. "Everyone has inside of him a piece of good news. The good news is that you don't know how great you can be! How much you can love! What you can accomplish! And what your potential is!" - Anne Frank. Great leaders believe and are optimistic about the future. They envision their vision even during the most challenging of times. They have a confident assurance, and they encourage others as they go. The open door ahead of us requires we step through by faith. It requires study to show ourselves approved—expecting, anticipating, and preparing for the best! All the Summit Leaders I know are: • Hard workers. • Strive toward the extraordinary. • Creative. • Building skills and confidence to prepare for the best for themselves. • The new clients they will serve. • The communities where they live. • Their families. "The future is going to demand more of us than the past has demanded, and it is going to give us more in return. If we measure up to our job, if we give to this world everything that is in us, we shall get more in return in the future than we ever did in the past." - Thomas J. Watson, Sr. "Foreseeing a Century of IBM Progress" Closing Address, 1932 One Hundred Percent Club. January 25, 1933, New York, NY. Be encouraged, Summit Leaders! The best is coming. Let's get ready! Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Many people seek the experience of a lifetime. Advertising attempts to portray it in ads and campaigns and catchy slogans. Businesses promote the unique experience customers, and clients enjoy if they select their offerings and implement their solutions. The company that creates the "distinct experience" becomes the winner in the race for mindshare and market share. Great companies seek to see what they do best from the perspective of those they serve. Great leaders seek to do the same thing. The beauty of great leaders is their willingness to be a channel for others to learn from their failures and discoveries. Wise leaders seek to understand how experienced leaders accomplish great works. Studying the principles of outstanding leadership requires patience and perseverance. It takes great effort. Someone once said, "Ask, and you receive what you need. Seek, and you will find what you are looking for and Knock, and it will be open to you." How then can we create a distinctive experience? We first must experience it for ourselves to truly understand what is required. Someone once said it is like finding a gold mine and deciding to devote yourself to this endeavor. Or like a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had and bought it. Think about the distinctive experience in your life and career journey. What were the attributes that made it unique for you, your family, or customers? Great leaders frequently take time to reflect on the distinctive experience. We can discover, understand, and help others experience their "distinctive experience." Once we master this lifelong skill, our worth and impact become invaluable. We see the lives of great leaders and great companies on display because others testify and promote the value of their service. Now is your time! You will receive the favor and grace to co-create with our clients, friends, colleagues, and all you meet along our journey. Our vision is to be the light of the world for all we serve. To be a group of leaders like a town built on a hill which all will see worldwide. First, we examine our lives for the "distinct experience" characteristics, what causes them and how to recognize the opportunities for them on our life and career journey. Everyone has a purpose for being born and our place of service where we are right now! Here are some observations from great leaders seeking and finding "the distinct experience" in life and career. 1. Visualize your purpose and vision. Picture it in your thinking. If you were watching yourself in a movie, what would you see? 2. Mull it over. Think deeply about it. Why does it matter? As a man or woman thinks in the heart, so they are. Our brains have a default mode. When we don't focus our minds, our thinking wanders. 3. Try it on! Picture yourself in the moment of your exceptional experience. You wear it like a custom-made garment, just for you. 4. Pray over it. What actions do I need to take to make this my everyday experience? 5. Rehearse it. Repeatedly thinking through your life, purpose, vision makes it stick. Believe it! The best is yet to be! Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. When we want to experience growth, obtain a higher goal, find purpose in life, and fulfillment, we look for leadership to help us on our way. People observe your leadership every day. Compassion, courage, and consistency are three qualities we see in leaders. Compassion is a quality that enables a leader to see with their heart and respond to another's circumstances in the right way. Leadership sees, feels, and considers the best action to take on behalf of those they serve. Most importantly, leadership intercedes on another's behalf. Here's a quote describing one leader who acted in a crisis on behalf of others. "But Phinehas had the courage to intervene, and the plague stopped. So, he has been regarded as a righteous man ever since that time." People remember your actions and appreciate you long after your acts of compassion, courage, and intercession in their lives. Great leaders show compassion and act courageously on behalf of those they lead and serve. They have influence. Each of us in our daily walk has influence and impacts the lives of many people. The big difference is that some are intentional, and others are unaware of the impact opportunity they have. Wherever we engage with people is the opportunity window to influence them for good. How we show up as leaders matters. People sense when someone is seeking to impact them for their benefit. We remember these people many years after the kindness they gave us. We honor them in our character, conversation, and conduct by thinking of their examples. We are encouraged to be mindful of those leading us—those who speak to you the word of encouragement, insight, and truth. Consider the outcomes of their leadership and way of life and imitate their faithful walk. Great leaders exhibit consistency in their responses to daily challenges, opportunities, and how they engage with those they serve. When their answer is not their best, they seek to correct it and move forward. They take the initiative and desire to act in the best interest of all they serve. Leaders who lead by example and impact see purpose and a calling to something greater. They engage you as a person. They communicate with passion, purpose, and meaning because they believe in you. Change the climate and create an inspirational culture among those you work, live, and serve. This journey will not be an easy one because of life's challenges, distractions, and unforeseen events. Nevertheless, be committed to maintaining consistency in your quest to become the leader who desires and makes an impact by living a purposeful life. I recall the quote of Gideon; a farmer turned war commander. He gained respect and influence with his army because of his calling and leadership. His army was willing to follow his example. Then he said to them, "Keep your eyes on me. When I come to the edge of the camp, do just as I do." As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. They won a great victory that day and impacted a nation for forty years! That is the impact you can have, "mighty warrior!" "The most powerful leadership tool you have is your own personal example." John Wooden. Begin today! Many will benefit from your leadership! Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Rejoice! Again, I say rejoice as you continue your career journey. I recall a conversation with a Summit Leader in 2015. He said, "I want to be at IBM a long time!" He is now in a sales leadership role and committed to the career journey in IBM. He is like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, yielding fruit in its season and whose leaf does not wither, and all he does will prosper. As I observed his growth over the years, I think we see three key attributes vital for a successful career journey—Conviction, Courage, and Confidence. We see these qualities in the lives of great leaders throughout history and business. First, conviction is rooted in the belief that you are here for such a time as this, and being where you are is not an accident. In discussion with a new group of new IBM leaders, I asked the questions, "How many believe that you are supposed to be here?" "How many believe it is a coincidence that you are here?" All of them believed that they were supposed to be here. Conviction is essential in accomplishing any significant work in life and business. It promotes perseverance during the difficulties and storms encountered on the journey and resiliency not to give up and not to quit. Commitment is the "all-in" decision from a heart that believes. Commitment precedes power. With it, we move forward with Courage despite uncertainty and not fully knowing how it will come to pass. "Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear." - Franklin D. Roosevelt. The focus of faith frees us from fear. Great leaders believe that the vision and purpose for their lives will produce more excellent works and outcomes. Their motivation is serving and helping others; family, clients, colleagues, community, the nation. They have a conqueror's mindset. They are improving their skills, getting stronger and stronger as they move forward in faith. I'm not there yet, nor have I become perfect, but I am charging on to gain anything and everything in store for me. Confidence builds as great leaders respond by faith and act day by day, decision by decision. https://w3.ibm.com/careers/about-your-career-at-ibm/career Here are some observations regarding the benefits of a career. 1. The conviction that you belong calms a restless spirit. 2. The commitment to keep going unifies a divided mind. 3. Protects us from premature actions when times get tough. 4. It enables us to focus on building and overcome distractions. 5. It empowers us to see the latter glory being more significant than the former glory. 6. It gives us opportunities to build the skills needed for expanded responsibilities in the future. 7. Experience greatness in serving others first and having proper priorities. 8. See and experience great victories with our colleagues, clients, and company. 9. Enjoy the rewards from your investment. 10. Fulfillment. Great leaders develop a singleness of heart and action to seek first things first. They know that all these added benefits will surely come. Someone once said, "No life grows great until it is focused, dedicated and disciplined." Be encouraged! Your career matters for you and those you serve! The best is yet to come! Though it tarries, please wait for it will surely come! Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. In part 1, we heard from a Summit Leader enjoying his first ten years at IBM and his vision for the next ten years. What's your strategy for resiliency? Great leaders focus on building a system in preparation for the inevitable challenges they know will come on their journey. "Yes, I know. It doesn't seem like it's been that long. I remember coming into IBM and sticking close to the adults in the room/mentors to learn enough to survive. Now when things get crazy, I look around and think, "I am the adult in the room." which is terrifying Ha-ha." "Things are going well, though. IBM has been pretty good to me, and I'm looking forward to the next ten years!" Summit Leader. It's beautiful to see leaders growing in their life and career. What will we all need to do to ensure the next ten years are more fruitful and prosperous? How can we ensure we are building resiliency in our lives and business? 1. Wisely choose where and how you will build your life, career, and business. 2. Select your advisors and accountability partners wisely. Someone once said, "You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with." "Walk with the wise and become wise, associate with fools, and get into trouble." 3. Inspect your foundation regularly for structural integrity. 4. Continue practicing the disciplines daily for successful building. Consistency in doing the right things has a compounding effect. 5. Keep your vision and seek your purpose. "If you are working on something exciting that you really care about, you don't have to be pushed. The vision pulls you." - Steve Jobs. 6. Practice mindfulness. We use our five senses, Sight, Sound, Smell, Taste, and Touch, to control our thinking. Being present, focused on the here and now, keeps us alert and allows us to concentrate on who we are - our identity. 7. Volunteer in serving. In the process, we gain a sense of belonging, community, and connection. Building delays are part of the process. Sometimes, things outside of the control of the builder require a pause. Weather conditions may cause delays. Wise builders understand that delays are not denials. Waiting is one of the hardest things to do when our vision for the building is in place, and the work is underway. Why wait? Timing and perspective are vital in life, career, and business. During the time of waiting, continue practicing what you know to do now. Our inclement conditions are tests to strengthen our resiliency for the journey ahead when building resumes. Many believe that waiting tests our character. "None of us can ever hope to get anywhere, to be of real use to ourselves, to our community or our country, unless we have the character, the moral courage, and the spiritual strength to accept responsibility. Strength of character is the one basic trait that will be found in all people who achieve greatness." - Thomas J. Watson, Sr. Believe that the best is yet to be. Keep your vision. Expect, anticipate, and prepare for the realization of the dream. It will surely come! Victory!

Greetings, Summit Leaders. Rejoice! Again I say rejoice. Each of us has an opportunity to become master builders. We are in the process of building lives, careers, and business. One of the essential things needed is a strategy for building resilience for our life and career journey. We will face challenges and storms in life and careers requiring us to have a solid approach to weather the conditions and emerge victoriously. What's your strategy for resiliency? Great leaders focus on building the system in preparation for the inevitable challenges they know will come on their journey. This week, I heard from a Summit leader who is celebrating ten years with IBM! "Yes, I know. It doesn't seem like it's been that long. I remember coming into IBM and sticking close to the adults in the room/mentors to learn enough to survive. Now when things get crazy, I look around and think, ‘I am the adult in the room.’ which is terrifying, Ha Ha.” Things are going well, though. IBM has been pretty good to me, and I'm looking forward to the next ten years!" Summit Leader. It's beautiful to see leaders growing in their life and career. What will we all need to do to ensure the next ten years are more fruitful and prosperous? We will need to build a system and mindset through patience, perseverance, and practice. Think about times when the challenges kept coming and seemed like they would not end, but they finished, and you were still standing strong and moving forward. That's perseverance. The heart to keep going even when the way is hard. Now, we are experiencing the challenge of COVID-19. Many are persevering and gaining strength as they go from others who have like mindsets. Patience is another foundation stone needed in building resiliency for life and business. Our Summit Leader reached the ten-year milestone by exercising patience. Our vision for life sometimes takes twists and turns in ways we don't expect. Take courage and keep going forward. Someone once said, "Though your vision tarries, wait for it will surely come." Successful builders understand and employ principles in building structures, life, and business. All of us are builders. The most important part is the foundation. They take pains in ensuring that they build on a solid foundation. Like our Summit Leader, a wise builder seeks wisdom from successful builders. Someone shared an account of two types of builders. "Anyone who listens and follows the principles given is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise, and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because the builder builds on bedrock. Another builder does not apply the principles he hears and unknowingly builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods came, and the winds beat against that house, it collapses with a mighty crash." Great leaders plan for resiliency on their life and career journey. Next week we will look at some of the principles they followed in building successful lives, careers, and business. Believe the best is yet to be! Victory!

Are you ever surprised by your own reactions?  Past fears, hurts and insecurities can come out of nowhere to drive present behavior in damaging ways, hurting relationships and hindering our own growth. Join Kim and guest, Joel Malm to unmask the real culprits at the root of your frustrations, fears and anger. Joel is the author of Fully You and the founder of Summit Leaders.    Kim Wier is a speaker, radio talk show host, Bible teacher, and author of the book, The Art of Friendship and other titles.    The Art of Friendship Podcast is part of Hope On Demand!

EU leaders agreed on Thursday to target more individuals involved in Ankara's illegal energy exploration activities in the eastern Mediterranean. European leaders also reached a deal on climate measures and resolved a dispute over the EU's historic €1.8 trillion budget and coronavirus recovery package. Yiannis Palaiologos, Kathimerini's Brussels correspondent, joins our podcast to give us an inside look at this week's EU summit and discuss the decisions taken.You can read the articles we discuss on The Daily Roundup here: EU leaders move toward sanctioning TurkeyClimate change: EU leaders set 55% target for CO2 emissions cutSenate passes defense bill, setting up veto showdown with TrumpSenate Sends Military Bill to Trump's Desk, Spurning His Veto ThreatGreeks face lockdown Christmas, but with books and tidy hairInt'l travelers to Greece to quarantine for 3 days instead of 10

If you enjoyed Part 1 of David Epstein's BJSM podcast listen to this one to hear about the genetic contribution to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, the reason it is so hard to detect in all cases, and real life choices that some players made when offered genetic screening opportunities. We finish by discussing whether an Olympic cross-country ski champion with a hematocrit of 65 is a blood-doper or the carrier of an unusual single-gene mutation. I learned a great deal from David Epstein in both podcasts; David has put the bar very high for future podcast guests. Recorded at the Summit – Leaders in Performance – New York (June 17/18 2014); with permission from Leaders (James Worrall). David Epstein's session at Leaders was sponsored by Aspetar Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar. For more related content: Sports Cardiology module on BMJ Learning including Seattle Criteria: bit.ly/1lI8djo J Drezner, M Ackerman, J Anderson et al, Electrocardiographic interpretation in athletes: the ‘Seattle Criteria' bit.ly/1ic8P6i Advances in Sports Cardiology November 12, Volume 46: bit.ly/1pitAMf J Drezner, Standardised criteria for ECG interpretation in athletes: a practical tool, bit.ly/1lYQc5f Bruce Hamilton, Ben Levine, Paul Thompson, Greg Whyte, Mathew Wilson, Debate: challenges in sports cardiology; US vs European approaches bit.ly/1lEudzX Unravelling the grey zone: cardiac MRI volume to wall mass ratio to differentiate hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and the athlete's heart: http://bit.ly/1t1LlmQ Sudden Cardiac Arrest and Cardiac Screening: A trainee perspective: http://bit.ly/1oUOWSk Peripheral vascular structure and function in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/46/Suppl_1/i98.full Unraveling the grey zone: cardiac MRI volume to wall mass ratio to differentiate hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and the athlete's heart: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/early/2013/06/13/bjsports-2013-092360.full Screening athletes for cardiovascular disease in Africa: a challenging experience: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/47/9/579.full

In one of 2014's ‘highlight' podcasts, New York Times best-selling author David Epstein simplifies genetics and explains that intricate relationship between nature and nurture. David Epstein's research took him to all corners of the globe and you'll hear about ‘Superbaby' (a newborn with muscles sculpted like a powerlifter), ‘A tale of two high jumpers' (no hints, spoiler alert), and a person whose genes drove her to exercise so much that she had to talk to David on her cellphone while running around an airport parkade. You'll be convinced that the '10,000 hours' argument (Malcolm Gladwell – Outliers) needs to be put in the scientific trash can. Thought-provoking and entertaining, David Epstein should be a household name for the BJSM community. David delivered the President's lecture at the 2014 AMSSM Annual Meeting (New Orleans). Recorded at the Summit – Leaders in Performance – New York (June 17/18 2014); with permission from Leaders (James Worrall) See also: This podcast builds on a 2012 podcast and paper by Ross Tucker (“What makes a champion?”) - Podcast: bit.ly/1oJNJ1R, Paper: R Tucker, M Collins bit.ly/1iJG3Vp David's TED Talk “Are athletes really getting faster, better, stronger?”: bit.ly/SVMy09 What makes champions? A review of the relative contribution of genes and training to sporting success: http://bit.ly/XmmYEY The genetic basis for elite running performance: http://bit.ly/1oUPx6x Podcast- David Epstein – ‘The Sports Gene' author (Part 2) – Hearts and blood: http://bit.ly/1t2rEJK

In this concise, information-rich BJSM podcast, sports cardiologist Aaron Baggish shares his expertise on the critical issue of sudden cardiac death in sport. He explains how to determine which ECG changes in athletes are sinister and which may not be (such as right bundle branch block). He argues for a detailed screening program for elite athletes and gives advice for those whose care is not covered by a professional sporting organization. The Boston Marathon has provided valuable lessons for where to locate defibrillators in this type of event. A sports cardiology refresher in just 11 minutes! Recorded at the Summit – Leaders in Performance – New York (June 17/18 2014); with permission from Leaders (James Worrall). Aaron Baggish's session at Leaders was sponsored by Aspetar Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Hospital, Doha, Qatar. See also: J Drezner, M Ackerman, J Anderson et al. Electrocardiographic interpretation in athletes: the ‘Seattle Criteria' bit.ly/1ic8P6i P Biddinger, A Baggish, L Harrington, P d'Hemecourt, J Hooley, The Boston Marathon and Mass-Casualty Events bit.ly/1lEtkaK BMJ Learning: ECG interpretation in athletes: bit.ly/1lI8djo Incidence of sudden cardiac death in athletes: a state-of-the-art review: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/48/15/1185.full The FIFA medical emergency bag and FIFA 11 steps to prevent sudden cardiac death: setting a global standard and promoting consistent football field emergency care: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/47/18/1199.full Cardiovascular screening in adolescents and young adults: a prospective study comparing the Pre-participation Physical Evaluation Monograph 4th Edition and ECG: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/48/15/1172.full Mass ECG screening of young athletes: http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/42/9/707.full Sudden Cardiac Arrest and Cardiac Screening: A trainee perspective: http://blogs.bmj.com/bjsm/2012/10/18/sudden-cardiac-arrest-and-cardiac-screening-a-trainee-perspective/ David Epstein – ‘The Sports Gene' author (Part 2) – Hearts and blood: https://soundcloud.com/bmjpodcasts/david-epstein-the-sports-gene-author-part-2-hearts-and-blood