Leadership Summit

I must admit up front that most of this blog is stolen ideas and not my original thoughts.  I have lots to share about what I learned over two days in attendance at a leadership conference, and I will not attempt to say it better than those from whom I learned it.  The reflection on these learned ideas, however, is mine and mine alone.

I spent sixteen hours attending The Leadership Summit, but I did more than attend.  I actively participated even though I rarely rose from my seat. I actively participated mentally.  My goal was to learn one thing that I could apply in my leadserhip position at Blueprint Education. Boy was a blown away with what I learned…  I am now left to contimplate a future path for myself. I have always consdiered myself a good, decent person who “does the right thing” both at home, at work, and in life in general.  But, after sixteen hours at this summit, I find myself thinking Am I doing enough for this world?         

Below are some of the philosophies shared at the summit and my reflections.

• Gary Hamel spoke about not taking refuge in denial.  This statement, applicable to numerous activities in one’s life, makes me wonder what in my life do I need to change and have denied that change is needed? 
• Jessica Jackley of www.kiva.org spoke about not apologizing for starting small…just start!  A realization overwhelmed me when I heard Jessica say this.  I fear failure (as many do) and that fear keeps me from trying new ideas because not doing something full out seems like a failure in my mind. 
• David Gergen spoke about the leadership he has been eye-witness to while working in the White House under four different Presidents.  He stressed leadership as being a journey and the need for reflection and reading.  I realized that I read, but not enough…and I reflect, but not in a way that I can revisit at a later time…like journaling.

From these philosophies, I feel the need (and desire) to create a workable action plan for my life – personal and professional.  As I take time to reflect on this leadership seminar and research further some of the ideas presented, I plan to design action steps to take to make sure I am doing all I can in this world.  Look for my blog in September outlining my action plan.