A number of years ago I joined the John Maxwell Team. This is a group of individuals who are independently certified to speak, teach, and coach using John Maxwell’s proven leadership content. If you have never heard of John, he has been named by INC magazine as the number one leadership expert in the world.
A couple years before I joined this global team of over 25,000 people I earned my Masters in Organizational Leadership. At that point, my wife asked, “what are you going to do with it?”
Since I am a wise individual who always has plans made and completely figured out, I said . . . “I don’t know.” Now I have been on a journey of trying to add value to others to help today’s leaders reach their full potential and inspiring youth to see how to be effective transformational leaders for tomorrow. This is an uphill journey.
John Maxwell and some of the others who I have a privilege of being mentored by in this program have reminded me “anything worthwhile is uphill.” With this uphill climb I often have to overcome my downhill habits. Lately I have increasing awareness that some of my biggest downhill habits are in the way I think.
Four-Letter Words
Growing up we have all heard not to say certain four-letter words. Here is one, well technically it has six letters, that creeps into my mind often either subtly or directly: CAN’T.
I have seen as I attempt to meet a new person who may help me expand the business, try a new skill I have not used often, or have a challenging conversation this word creeps in. It appears like a snake sneaking up and quietly hissing in my ear ideas like you aren’t qualified, you aren’t smart enough, you don’t have the credibility and at times gets to the point of suggesting I just give up on what I am pursuing.
Change the Question
So what happens when these thoughts creep in? At times I want to give into them and have a great pity party. I have been reminded by some of the mentors I have access to that I need to change the question. Instead of focusing on limited resources, time, experience, etc. I need to ask one of two questions:
What CAN I do?
I may not be speaking in front of tens of thousands and sharing principles to lead better at work or home . . . yet. But I can speak in front of a small group. I can make a phone call to meet the person who can help me take the next step.
How CAN I?
This question assumes we can, but also asks for the next step. Say you want to take your family on a cruise, but right now your savings is negative. Instead of just asking how this would be possible, look at what you can do . . . save change, do odd jobs, get another job, close more deals, make it a family savings event, cut spending, or any number of options. Then take the next step.
I don’t know about you, but I can be greatest limiter to moving in the direction of my dream. I must get out of my own way and take the next step. It won’t go perfect and I will make mistakes . . . . but that is a topic for another day.
What about you? What CAN you do to lead that team toward its goal or accomplish a family dream? How CAN you get there? What is next. When you hear that little four letter word maybe you just need to add a three letter word of YET and take the next step. If you need help thinking into your leadership personally or professionally or breaking through limiting beliefs, contact me and let’s talk. Lead Well!
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