Summer, 2002

This is Number 12 in a series of occasional newsletters. Feedback is welcomed and please let us know if you prefer not to receive future issues.

"Never tell a young person that something can't be done. God may have waited centuries for someone ignorant enough of the impossible to do that very thing." - Michael Le Boeuf

In conducting leadership workshops and speaking on that topic I'm often asked how a person who doesn't play a major role in an organization can be a leader.

I see leadership as a quality more than a title. When a first grader chooses kindness over cruelty on the playground, she's being an effective leader, modeling inclusive behavior. When a teenager chooses to be the sober driver rather than risking his friends' lives, he's being a leader.

Every day, we have the opportunity to affect the people we touch: our families, our friends, our clients, our colleagues, our employees, the people on the highway with us, the grocery store clerk...the list is endless and so are the opportunities for us to make an intentional impact with our behavior. How do we do that? By being aware of our choices.

Inspirational leaders and regular folks alike always operate from one of two principles: love or fear. When a boss takes credit for a job done by his employees, he's afraid. Afraid of losing points, afraid of not being seen, afraid of being outshone. How different would his behavior be if he were coming from the principle of love?

We are operating from the principle of love when we choose forgiveness over judgment, sharing over hoarding, complimenting over criticizing and honesty over deception. It is from love that trust flows, and from trust that peace flows. In our workplaces and our schools and our homes, there is such a need today for peace. Fear is exhausting and and quite an energy drain.

Imagine what a gift it is to others in your life when you exude peace and trust. Have you been around someone like that, whom you enjoy just being near because of their calming influence? We all have opportunity to be that for ourselves and each other daily. In coming issues, we will be looking at the qualities and attributes of an effective leader and ways to incorporate those into our lives, no matter who we lead.

Group Coaching Opportunities
Beginning in September, I will offer group coaching in person for those in Washington or by telephone bridge line for those who live in other areas.

Here's how it will work: Four to six people who have a common goal will meet weekly for coaching, sharing of ideas, mutual support and moving forward. Coaching will continue for 3 months and then the group will decide if/how they want to continue.

Currently groups are forming around these objectives: writers who want to get their work into the world, leadership skills for managers and executives, and clarity of life purpose. If you would like to sign up for a group or more information, email me at teri@intrepid-communications.com.

Book Recommendations
I Could Do Anything If I Only Knew What It Was - By Barbara Sher. For folks in the midst of career transition, this book could be a real treasure. Barbara is the author of another favorite published many years ago: Wishcraft. Both books are full of exercises and insights that help clarify what you really want from work and life.

Affiliate Spotlight
Each month I will put the spotlight on an affiliate or colleague who brings outstanding value. This month, I'd like to feature my colleague, Phil Woolwine. Phil is a business and executive coach and consultant who brings many years of consulting within organizations to his practice.

What I appreciate about Phil is his ability to ask the tough questions in a way that challenges, yet conveys care and respect for the client. He is warm, intelligent and a great storyteller. We recently led a leadership workshop together and I couldn't have asked for a better partner. Phil coaches individuals and organizations on strategy, performance and leadership. He can be reached by email at Phil@woolwine-inc.com.

I currently have 3 openings for individual clients in my practice. I love to work with people who are curious about life and ready to move the next level, whatever that means for them. I specialize in business and leadership development. Find out more by emailing me at teri@intrepid-communications.com.

May the rest of your summer be delicious.

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