Now that we are in between government shutdowns, let’s look at some lessons that we can all apply from watching this series of events.
Keep in mind, I have no allegiance to any political party. I am passionate about leadership and political issues, but not politics as we know it today.
Here are some key lessons that we and our elected officials could apply:
-
Broaden your view: Any time you are seeking to solve a problem, make a big decision, or try something new, expand your view. Ask a bigger question. Broaden your perspective.
-
Ask more questions: What you don’t know matters. What you don’t understand makes a difference. Ask two questions for every statement you make.
-
Purpose matters: Remind yourself of purpose so that you can now start to refine your focus. Purpose provides direction and removes “good” to focus on the essential!
-
Narrow your focus: You start broad to gain perspective and ensure you are asking the right questions, but then you continue narrowing your focus to solve the problem, make the decision, or take the right next step.
People not agendas: Check yourself throughout the process to ensure you are focused on people and solving problems, not preconceived agendas.
That process works for organizations of all sizes, individuals in all situations, and would also work for the federal government. Consider this series of questions:
-
What do we need to fund, not how much do we spend on it?
-
What’s a better option, rather than I don’t like your idea?
-
What’s the wise decision based on my present circumstances and future goals, not what’s the easy choice now?
-
What’s in the long-term best interest of the people involved, not what’s the poplar view today?
As we approach the end of another year, you may be facing some tough issues. You may be at an impasse on how to make a decision and not sure what to do. Regardless of the situation, you don’t need to shut down. You can’t do what the federal government did and just walkway! You need to move forward.
I love Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight”.
That verse removes the pressure. I am not expected to know everything, nor am I to rely solely on myself in big moments. Who wouldn’t want a straight path?
-
Straight paths could still be difficult at times, but direction matters!
-
Straight paths could be dark at times, but direction enables progress!
-
Straight paths could be uncertain at times, but direction provides guidance needed!
-
Straight paths could be long, but direction provides motivation and assurance!
By the way, I have some time in December if you know anyone in Washington DC. I can take my zero-based budgeting approach, the key learnings noted above, and Proverbs 3:5-6 to get this federal funding resolved so we don’t have to go through another shutdown.
Doug provides professional speaking and coaching services to organizations and individuals. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build a team culture, feel free to reach out to Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
For the latest local news, subscribe FOR FREE to the Lincoln Parish Journal and receive an email each weekday morning at 6:55 right to your inbox. Just CLICK HERE to sign up.
