ENCOURAGE THE DREAMS OF OTHERS

It is quite ironic that when people share their dreams with others, many times the first reaction is to criticize the dream and find ways their dream will not come true. The reason for such behavior is that it reminds them of how far they are from living their own dream. This way, they can feel good about staying in their own comfort zones and not pursue their own dreams. This what we call a dream killer. Never allow a dream killer in your life. All they want to do is bring you down.

Instead, surround yourself with dream believers. Dream believers encourage another's dream. When someone shares their dream with you, let the person know that you value their dream and they have the traits necessary to succeed!

Its a great privilege when people share their dreams with you. They put a lot of trust in you by sharing something as personal as their dream. Its a powerful place to be. Be careful with your words as you talk to them as a right word will inspire them while a wrong word might give them a feeling of lost hope and they will abandon their dream.



You can do it!

 When talking about another's dreams, show support by asking about their challenges and offer your assistance. Ask questions about their dream. Give them suggestions that will give them the feeling that they can reach their dream. Give them confidence and say you believe in them. No one achieves a worthwhile goal alone. You will be amazed how people will light up when you help them achieve their dreams.

Finally, check back with them from time to time and see how they are doing. Show interest and care by taking an interest in their progress, talk through their obstacles, and lend assistance when you can.

Remember, surround yourself with people who believe you can do it and stay away from those who say you can't. Help someone with their dreams and you just might achieve yours.

IT WORKED FOR HIM

I recently finished the latest book on Colin Powell "It Worked for Me." Its a wonderful summary of the General's life and his lessons on leadership and anecdotes during his life.

The begins with his 13 rules for leadership.  Some of my favorites are: "It ain't as bad as you think. It will look better in the morning." A great reminder not to act too quickly. A good nights sleep takes the edge off of many problems. Another is "It can be done!" This statement reminds us that you can do it and don't surround yourself with instant skeptics. Another is "Share the credit." People on the team need recognition and feel a sense of worth as much as food and water. Remember, share the credit, take the blame. The other ten rules are gems. Good life lessons taken from a very full, exciting life.

The rest of the book is broken down into parts. The second part covers "Know Yourself, Be Yourself." It includes a reminder to "Always do your best, someone is watching." A great lesson in self discipline.  The third part is "Take Care of Your Troops." He includes one of his best phrases "The Guys in the Field Are Right and the Staff Is Wrong."

The fifth part covers "Gettting to 150 Percent." The chapters in this section outline his climb to the top with some strict policies that were lived by him and his staff. One good chapter "Time to get off the train." The piece describes the relentless effort to do a good job right up until the time you are told to leave.

The final part "Reflections" is a series of chapters that tell a variety of stories about some of the larger tasks he tackled in his life.

All in all, its a great book. I would highly recommend it. Its very concise and would make a wonderful addition to anyone's leadership book library.