Wisdom from the Father and Son (Original 10/16/05)

I recently attended a seminar where the reflective question was posed, "How do you remind yourself that God is present in your workplace and how does that awareness change the way you work?"

It was an interesting question and I must admit I wasn't particularly happy with the answer I came up with. I didn't think I reminded myself very often if at all, and that seemed like something I should rectify, but I wasn't sure how.

When I returned to my office I scoured my desktop for some icon that could act as an unobtrusive spiritual symbol. My laptop, docking station and monitor took a vast amount or real estate. Stacks of papers to file, act on or route robbed even more. What little shelf space I had was committed to books and business tchochkies. Before long, pressing matters tore me away from my search.

While at home my young son, to his great amusement, continued to pick up and throw rubber balls at me. This was a fun game we had been playing for several days but in a flash it became much more significant. As he ran after me, arm cocked and ready to catapult another ball toward me, he gleefully said, "Here Daddy, here." At that moment I interpreted what he was saying as, "Hear Daddy, hear."

Instantly I recalled back a few years to a joyful family reunion. The occasion was my father's birthday, (for that matter, my daughter's too.) He rose to give a little speech, a recollection of what someone had shared with him as a younger man. He said words to the effect,

"In life we find ourselves juggling any number of balls in different sizes. There is career, finances, health, perhaps new business ventures, schooling or needless worrying. All of these things are made of rubber. If one drops because of neglect or a miscalculation, it can bounce back. However, there is one ball that represents family and it is made of crystal. This ball requires the most vigilant attention, because if it should fall due to neglect or miscalculation it will shatter and can not be replaced."

With moistness in my eyes I gave my surprised son a big hug before he could pelt me with another ball.

On my desk sits a picture of my family. Alongside of it I have placed a rubber ball I tend to throw or squeeze when the day turns tense. The two items work in concert to remind me that God is indeed present and he came to me through my father and my son.

It has been nearly three years since I first scribed those words. My son continues to throw balls at me; with greater accuracy. My father continues to provide wisdom, often in ways he may never fully appreciate. The rubber ball still sits at my desk and is frequently bounced in moments of contemplation.

During one of those moments of contemplation I received a call from the coordinator of the University of San Diego Business Leadership and Spirituality Breakfast Seminar, the same seminar that prompted me to begin capturing my reflections on leadership. She informed me that they are accepting participants for program this autumn. It's a transformative breakfast once a week for eight weeks that poses questions like:

• What does my work mean when all is said and done?
• How do I find and establish my moral compass in a world of competing values?
• How can I make tough choices with a clear conscience and a sense of peace?
• Integrity in the workplace; Do we practice what we preach?
• And is the world a better place for our having been here?

Many believe a well lived life is one that balances work, family, finances, health, hobbies and spirituality. To me, the effective leader doesn't delineate those areas of life, they incorporate them. We saw an example of this played out publicly this past Father's Day weekend as the nation mourned the loss of Tim Russert, one of America's finest journalist and political commentators. Story after story served up testimonials of his faith and values interwoven into his life. Someone once commented, some people often think the successful seek spirituality, when actually it tends to be the inverse. People are most often successful because they are spiritual.

Please check out the program www.sandiego.edu/ccs for more details.

Let me know you registered for this unique experience and I'll send you my latest book, "How to Stay When you Want to Quit: re-scripting your life from whiner to winner" as a congratulations gift.

Wisdom from the Father and Son (Original 10/16/05)

I recently attended a seminar where the reflective question was posed, "How do you remind yourself that God is present in your workplace and how does that awareness change the way you work?"

It was an interesting question and I must admit I wasn't particularly happy with the answer I came up with. I didn't think I reminded myself very often if at all, and that seemed like something I should rectify, but I wasn't sure how.


When I returned to my office I scoured my desktop for some icon that could act as an unobtrusive spiritual symbol. My laptop, docking station and monitor took a vast amount or real estate. Stacks of papers to file, act on or route robbed even more. What little shelf space I had was committed to books and business tchochkies. Before long, pressing matters tore me away from my search.


While at home my young son, to his great amusement, continued to pick up and throw rubber balls at me. This was a fun game we had been playing for several days but in a flash it became much more significant. As he ran after me, arm cocked and ready to catapult another ball toward me, he gleefully said, "Here Daddy, here." At that moment I interpreted what he was saying as, "Hear Daddy, hear."


Instantly I recalled back a few years to a joyful family reunion. The occasion was my father's birthday, (for that matter, my daughter's too.) He rose to give a little speech, a recollection of what someone had shared with him as a younger man. He said words to the effect,

"In life we find ourselves juggling any number of balls in different sizes. There is career, finances, health, perhaps new business ventures, schooling or needless worrying. All of these things are made of rubber. If one drops because of neglect or a miscalculation, it can bounce back. However, there is one ball that represents family and it is made of crystal. This ball requires the most vigilant attention, because if it should fall due to neglect or miscalculation it will shatter and can not be replaced."

With moistness in my eyes I gave my surprised son a big hug before he could pelt me with another ball.


On my desk sits a picture of my family. Alongside of it I have placed a rubber ball I tend to throw or squeeze when the day turns tense. The two items work in concert to remind me that God is indeed present and he came to me through my father and my son.

It has been nearly three years since I first scribed those words. My son continues to throw balls at me; with greater accuracy. My father continues to provide wisdom, often in ways he may never fully appreciate. The rubber ball still sits at my desk and is frequently bounced in moments of contemplation.

During one of those moments of contemplation I received a call from the coordinator of the University of San Diego Business Leadership and Spirituality Breakfast Seminar, the same seminar that prompted me to begin capturing my reflections on leadership. She informed me that they are accepting participants for program this autumn. It's a transformative breakfast once a week for eight weeks that poses questions like:

• What does my work mean when all is said and done?
• How do I find and establish my moral compass in a world of competing values?
• How can I make tough choices with a clear conscience and a sense of peace?
• Integrity in the workplace; Do we practice what we preach?
• And is the world a better place for our having been here?

Many believe a well lived life is one that balances work, family, finances, health, hobbies and spirituality. To me, the effective leader doesn't delineate those areas of life, they incorporate them. We saw an example of this played out publicly this past Father's Day weekend as the nation mourned the loss of Tim Russert, one of America's finest journalist and political commentators. Story after story served up testimonials of his faith and values interwoven into his life. Someone once commented, some people often think the successful seek spirituality, when actually it tends to be the inverse. People are most often successful because they are spiritual.

Please check out the program www.sandiego.edu/ccs for more details.

Let me know you registered for this unique experience and I'll send you my latest book, "How to Stay When you Want to Quit: re-scripting your life from whiner to winner" as a congratulations gift.

Any, All, Always and Never_ROL#9 Show Notes

Too long of an hiatus from the podcast and a promise of more regular installments.

Announced the new book "How to Stay When You Want to Quit; Re-scripting your life from whiner to winner

Will podcast on chapters of "Pushing Back the Ocean; Tide Turning Leadership Lessons" in the near future.

Take a look at a new product, the Disposable Journal and be a part of the feedback program.

Is using any, all, always and never leadership laziness?

Audio Comment Line 1-206-333-0968

Any, All, Always and Never_ROL#9 Show Notes

Too long of an hiatus from the podcast and a promise of more regular installments.

Announced the new book "How to Stay When You Want to Quit; Re-scripting your life from whiner to winner

Will podcast on chapters of "Pushing Back the Ocean; Tide Turning Leadership Lessons" in the near future.

Take a look at a new product, the Disposable Journal and be a part of the feedback program.

Is using any, all, always and never leadership laziness?

Audio Comment Line 1-206-333-0968

How to Stay When You Want to Quit - Released!

I'm pleased to announce the launching of my new book, "How to Stay When You Want to Quit; Rescripting your life from whinner to winner"

"For all the little engines who have run out of steam. Take this book to the depot and rebuild your momentum."

This is a story about two friends, Max and Madeline, who are pressing hard at their careers. Madeline is fortunate in she is now working with a great boss who has mentored and challenged her to be her best. Unfortunately, Max has had the opposite experience. He has been through a heavy rotation of managers, many of whom spoke a good game but never really showed up to play. The most noticeable difference between them is that Madeline, although not yet in her ideal job, loves the journey, while Max is miserable in his voyage.

Read on to learn how Madeline takes what she has learned and helps Max turn his attitude and his life around. You may pick up a few tips you could use to help bring positive action to people who are disillusioned in their jobs, even if that person is you.

ISBN: 978-1-4357-3847-8

Publisher: Lulu.com

Rights Owner: BimMedia

Copyright: © 2008 Karl Bimshas Standard Copyright License

Language: English

Country: United States

Buy Here

KarlBimshas.com

How to Stay When You Want to Quit - Released!

I'm pleased to announce the launching of my new book, "How to Stay When You Want to Quit; Rescripting your life from whinner to winner"

"For all the little engines who have run out of steam. Take this book to the depot and rebuild your momentum."

This is a story about two friends, Max and Madeline, who are pressing hard at their careers. Madeline is fortunate in she is now working with a great boss who has mentored and challenged her to be her best. Unfortunately, Max has had the opposite experience. He has been through a heavy rotation of managers, many of whom spoke a good game but never really showed up to play. The most noticeable difference between them is that Madeline, although not yet in her ideal job, loves the journey, while Max is miserable in his voyage.

Read on to learn how Madeline takes what she has learned and helps Max turn his attitude and his life around. You may pick up a few tips you could use to help bring positive action to people who are disillusioned in their jobs, even if that person is you.

ISBN: 978-1-4357-3847-8

Publisher: Lulu.com

Rights Owner: BimMedia

Copyright: © 2008 Karl Bimshas Standard Copyright License

Language: English

Country: United States

Buy Here

KarlBimshas.com

Halftime

It’s official, the first half of 2008 in in the books. Here are some of the things going on in my neck of the woods at halftime that you may be interested to know.

First, “How to Stay When you Want to Quit: Re-scripting your life from whiner to winner” will soon be available via Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and other fine booksellers. This is the second book in the New to Leadership / Leadership Renewal series. If you’re interested in it or want to be notified when it’s available, send me an email: Karl@Karlbimshas.com

Meanwhile, “Pushing Back the Ocean: Tide Turning Leadership Lessons” is available worldwide on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Target.com and many other sites. Just go to Google or follow this link: Amazon.com

Please feel free to rate it at any site you visit.

Many people have bought the book as a graduation gift. It’s a quick read, and like a gemstone, small and valuable as a great pick me up for your team. For fun check out the three minute YouTube Video

Second, I’ve been reinventing some of the existing blogs to act as a better companion for the Reflection on Leadership podcast available on iTunes.

It’s all in the infancy stage and as you know “it takes a village”, and its development and growth would certainly be enhanced by your participation, suggestions and support, so please join the conversation. You can also add an audio comment by calling 206.333.096.

Third, BimMedia has set up shop in Second Life, the five year old metaverse or virtual world. If you’re a resident of Second Life you can visit Bimmy's, the Lounge for Writers, the conference room and other virtual enhancements at:BimMedia SLurl

Fourth, if you or someone you know is looking for assistance in setting six month goals get in touch with me. Not only do I have a genuine interest in what you're working on, I may be able to help you commit to achieving them.

Your feedback is important to me, and if you have the chance, or inclination, your recommendation on my LinkedIn profile would be much appreciated. LinkedIn

Finally, if you haven't already, checkout a couple of the free tools available on lulu.com. In particular take a look at the 4 10s Challenge. The 4 10s Challenge

As we enter the second half of the year it can help you get back on
track. (Do you even remember your resolutions from January?)

Keep Smiling.

Halftime

It’s official, the first half of 2008 in in the books. Here are some of the things going on in my neck of the woods at halftime that you may be interested to know.

First, “How to Stay When you Want to Quit: Re-scripting your life from whiner to winner” will soon be available via Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble and other fine booksellers. This is the second book in the New to Leadership / Leadership Renewal series. If you’re interested in it or want to be notified when it’s available, send me an email: Karl@Karlbimshas.com

Meanwhile, “Pushing Back the Ocean: Tide Turning Leadership Lessons” is available worldwide on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, Borders, Target.com and many other sites. Just go to Google or follow this link: Amazon.com

Please feel free to rate it at any site you visit.

Many people have bought the book as a graduation gift. It’s a quick read, and like a gemstone, small and valuable as a great pick me up for your team. For fun check out the three minute YouTube Video

Second, I’ve been reinventing some of the existing blogs to act as a better companion for the Reflection on Leadership podcast available on iTunes.

It’s all in the infancy stage and as you know “it takes a village”, and its development and growth would certainly be enhanced by your participation, suggestions and support, so please join the conversation. You can also add an audio comment by calling 206.333.096.

Third, BimMedia has set up shop in Second Life, the five year old metaverse or virtual world. If you’re a resident of Second Life you can visit Bimmy's, the Lounge for Writers, the conference room and other virtual enhancements at:BimMedia SLurl

Fourth, if you or someone you know is looking for assistance in setting six month goals get in touch with me. Not only do I have a genuine interest in what you're working on, I may be able to help you commit to achieving them.

Your feedback is important to me, and if you have the chance, or inclination, your recommendation on my LinkedIn profile would be much appreciated. LinkedIn

Finally, if you haven't already, checkout a couple of the free tools available on lulu.com. In particular take a look at the 4 10s Challenge. The 4 10s Challenge

As we enter the second half of the year it can help you get back on
track. (Do you even remember your resolutions from January?)

Keep Smiling.

Can Gen X Lead?

I posted this question on LinkedIN earlier in the week and have been getting some great responses.


"Do you feel those in Generation X (let’s say the core being born between 1965-1975) now aged 33-43 are not willing to accept leadership challenges?

Every generation is often critical of the preceding and the next. There seems to be a fair number of editorials and frustrations that state either this generation is not accepting the mantle of leadership in society, or is not being offered it as Boomers are hanging on tighter and Gen Y has greater enthusiasm.

It strikes me that the combination of new media (web 2.0) and the rapidly changing world, the environment is rich for Gen X style leadership. Are they reluctant or just still misunderstood?

If you are from this generation, do you want to lead, or do you feel burdened by it?"


What do you think? Join the conversation.

Can Gen X Lead?

I posted this question on LinkedIN earlier in the week and have been getting some great responses.


"Do you feel those in Generation X (let’s say the core being born between 1965-1975) now aged 33-43 are not willing to accept leadership challenges?

Every generation is often critical of the preceding and the next. There seems to be a fair number of editorials and frustrations that state either this generation is not accepting the mantle of leadership in society, or is not being offered it as Boomers are hanging on tighter and Gen Y has greater enthusiasm.

It strikes me that the combination of new media (web 2.0) and the rapidly changing world, the environment is rich for Gen X style leadership. Are they reluctant or just still misunderstood?

If you are from this generation, do you want to lead, or do you feel burdened by it?"


What do you think? Join the conversation.

On Sincerity (Repost from 11/13/05)

Practice what you preach. Act with integrity. These phrases are thrown about frequently along with words like genuine, credible, authentic, sincere.

In the days of the Roman Empire potters and sculptors would fill cracks or imperfections in their work with wax, then glaze it over before selling them at market. When I first heard this, I imagined these beautiful pieces eventually weeping during the heat of the day, the wax melting under the sun, God’s spotlight. When a piece of work was flawless, or the craftsman one of high integrity, a seal was placed on it that read, “sine cere”, a Latin term meaning, “without wax.” These were obviously the most desirable pieces and held up under the toughest of scrutiny.

How often do people today live with sincerity, without wax? It’s easy to impugn public officials; sadly many have not performed well under the spotlight. However, looking inward, I recognize I too have been lax.

In an effort to improve efficiency with my team at work, I have insisted on certain process steps be followed. Yet as I reflect, in expediency, I myself have failed to follow those steps. At home, I have lamented the children to sit up straight, only to later find myself slouching on the couch, mouth agape, staring into the television. How often have others told their kids to clean their rooms only to find stacks of papers, post-its and books strewn about their own office? And how many have shouted, “Stop yelling, it’s not polite.”

Do as I say, not as I do. That’s practicing hypocrisy, not integrity. Others could easily reply, “I can’t hear what you’re saying, your actions speak so loudly.”

Some seem to live by what Jack Canfield calls the 18/40/60 Rule. At eighteen, you think everyone is looking at you. At forty, you don’t care who is looking at you. At sixty, you realize, no one was looking at you. There may be truth to that, but if you are a leader, people are looking at you. They are looking at your imperfections, your weaknesses and your ability to handle obstacles.

I believe if you know your mission and your core values and if you live on purpose and if, as Ken Blanchard says, “you are committed to your commitments”, then you are acting with authenticity. There may be flaws or cracks -- resist the urge to fill them with wax. Instead, think like Michelangelo, rather than hiding any blemishes, keep them exposed and work them into the final piece of art, your life and you will have lived with integrity.

On Sincerity (Repost from 11/13/05)

Practice what you preach. Act with integrity. These phrases are thrown about frequently along with words like genuine, credible, authentic, sincere.

In the days of the Roman Empire potters and sculptors would fill cracks or imperfections in their work with wax, then glaze it over before selling them at market. When I first heard this, I imagined these beautiful pieces eventually weeping during the heat of the day, the wax melting under the sun, God’s spotlight. When a piece of work was flawless, or the craftsman one of high integrity, a seal was placed on it that read, “sine cere”, a Latin term meaning, “without wax.” These were obviously the most desirable pieces and held up under the toughest of scrutiny.

How often do people today live with sincerity, without wax? It’s easy to impugn public officials; sadly many have not performed well under the spotlight. However, looking inward, I recognize I too have been lax.

In an effort to improve efficiency with my team at work, I have insisted on certain process steps be followed. Yet as I reflect, in expediency, I myself have failed to follow those steps. At home, I have lamented the children to sit up straight, only to later find myself slouching on the couch, mouth agape, staring into the television. How often have others told their kids to clean their rooms only to find stacks of papers, post-its and books strewn about their own office? And how many have shouted, “Stop yelling, it’s not polite.”

Do as I say, not as I do. That’s practicing hypocrisy, not integrity. Others could easily reply, “I can’t hear what you’re saying, your actions speak so loudly.”

Some seem to live by what Jack Canfield calls the 18/40/60 Rule. At eighteen, you think everyone is looking at you. At forty, you don’t care who is looking at you. At sixty, you realize, no one was looking at you. There may be truth to that, but if you are a leader, people are looking at you. They are looking at your imperfections, your weaknesses and your ability to handle obstacles.

I believe if you know your mission and your core values and if you live on purpose and if, as Ken Blanchard says, “you are committed to your commitments”, then you are acting with authenticity. There may be flaws or cracks -- resist the urge to fill them with wax. Instead, think like Michelangelo, rather than hiding any blemishes, keep them exposed and work them into the final piece of art, your life and you will have lived with integrity.