It has been a long time since I wrote my last blog and I am excited to start up again. I now have switched gears and no longer reflect my blog posts as a school administrator. The posts will now reflect just me as an individual and focus on topics such as leadership, parenting, relationships, faith, and whatever inspires me to write! With that being said.....I hope this finds you well and enjoying life and we shall begin!
An unexpected journey. That is the title of this post. Several years ago I decided to write a book. At the time it was more of a hobby. I'd work on it for 10 minutes here....30 minutes.....miss a couple weeks.....another 15 minutes..... This went on for several months. Then at one point I realized my word count was actually fairly high - it wasn't "The Grapes of Wrath" but I felt like the effort I put in was starting to materialize. Towards the end I made a strong push to actually finish the book and I did! So now I would like to highlight a few parts of my book for the return of my blog. I hope you enjoy!
The book focuses around what is called the "Servant Leadership Cycle". I will go over the 3 components briefly:
1. "SEE" - as individuals we need to not have tunnel vision in our life. If we do, we miss so much in the world today. I am fortunate to have a job that I feel I can have an influence on the lives of those around me. So when I walk into school each day I seek out (SEE) students/staff each day and get to know them. What is going on with them? How are they doing? How can I help? Make that effort each day.
2. "CONNECT" - This ties in with seeking individuals out. This is understanding that what you see on the outside may not be the same as what is on the inside. Connect with people daily. I have always said it is about relationships. Be that positive influence. Be the difference maker. I always call a 2nd grade student in our school "smiles". Today when she saw me in the hallway she said "hi smiles!". Does she smile when I call her smiles? Absolutely. It's all about relationships.
3. "LEAD" - To complete the cycle we end with Leadership - or as John Maxwell defines it "influence". If we can SEE those around us (people hurting, people reaching out, people in need of guidance, etc) and we CONNECT with those around us (show them that we care - that we love them), and sprinkle on top the ability to LEAD these individuals in a way that reflects Jesus - What a difference we can make in this world.
I hope you have the chance to meet Buddy and Carl.
God Bless,
Jay R. Townsend
Great book. Proud of you!
ReplyDelete