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Wonderful Life

David Russell

I encourage you to watch the Christmas movie classic, It's a Wonderful Life, this week with your family and/or friends.

The storyline can be considered from many perspectives, including as a newer version of Dickens' story, A Christmas Carol.

My point is this:  When George Bailey is ultimately challenged to prove his worth or wealth as an individual it comes down to relationships, not money.

Our success as a leader is dependent on relationships more than anything else.  This starts with our faith, a relationship with God, however we define that to be, or our belief we all evolved from nothing.  Then our spouse and/or family.  Then friends, and I suggest fourth is work relationships.

As you approach 2012, what are you going to do differently to build stronger relationships?  In the end, that is all we have.  I suggest we focus on doing one thing more consistently, lovingly, creatively... BETTER than we did in 2011 with our key relationships.

If you are interested in the questions I am asking myself to commit to improving my relationships in 2012, see the Meeting Ideas below.

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy Holidays!

Be an Intentional, Systematic, Servant Leader.
Success With People, Inc.
MANAGEtoWIN, Inc.

MEETING IDEAS
 
I hope you enjoy the movie, even if you have seen it dozens of times like me.  Too often relationships take a back seat to temporary stuff of lesser value.
 
Here are some thoughts to explore the idea of making relationships a key priority in 2012:

1. One of the greatest blessings we have in America is the freedom to pursue a faith in God as we individually define God (or not). This belief is the foundation for how we discern truth, ethics, and meaning in life. What is one thing to do differently in this area to make 2012 a year that is more meaningful to you?

2. What is the one behavior you can change that will make your relationship with your spouse or special other even better?

3. What can you do to create great memories with your children or other family members?

4. What is one action you can take to improve relationships with your direct reports at work?  What about with other coworkers?

5. What is one activity you can do to improve client relationships?

You can add more questions, but keep in mind it is better to do a great job in a limited number of regular activities than an average or poor job on a longer list.
   


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