We have moved around a few times over my work career. We have experienced both large and small communities. Regardless of the size, location, or stage of life, I have found there are five keys to every successful community.
Economic Growth: The local business community is growing. Jobs are being created and wages are advancing.
Public Education System: Quality schools are comprised of caring teachers, engaged parents, a committed administration, and a supportive community.
Health Care: At a minimum, a community needs access to reliable basic health care for emergencies, routine, and diagnostic procedures to be handled locally.
Housing: There is access to well-maintained rental property, home access for first-time buyers, and ample opportunities for those seeking the “next” home purchase as well as those moving to the community.
Safety: Citizens consider the community safe and have good relationships with various law enforcement agencies.
While I have found these five to be consistent factors over the years, there is one overriding attribute that defines a community at its core.
That attribute is character.
The character of the members of the community is what I am referring to here. Authentic character is what I am referencing.
- Character that is evidenced in the tough times.
- Character that comes to light when things go dark.
- Character that rises to the level of the challenge when things are sinking all around.
Character is revealed in governing body meetings when disagreements occur. Whether it’s City Counsel, School Board, or Policy Jury, disagreements are resolved in calm, open-discussion dialogue.
Character is revealed in youth sports activities where parents allow young people to learn skills, competitive focus, and sportsmanship. Parents are encouraging observers!
Character is revealed in how citizens support local non-profits that serve the community, how citizens support one another directly, and how citizens conduct themselves in election season.
In essence, authentic character is displayed when our actions reflect our convictions.
We often lose poise, composure, and character when:
- We focus on self, not on others
- We zero in on one issue, rather than the overall picture
- We focus on our words rather than listen to others.
- We have a desire to be right, to win, and to feel vindicated more than we seek what’s best for all.
Emotional reactions lead to regretful words and actions. Conviction-based responses often lead to statements that are remembered!
We can nail all five of the keys noted at the beginning of the article, but if we miss the character attribute, it’s just a matter of time before things erode.
If you want to get a read on the character of your community, attend a government meeting, a youth sports event, or a local political rally.
Passion for a position, with poise in presentation, provides a positive-focused perspective.
Doug equips leaders to make organizations better. He has two leadership books available on all online platforms. Whether you are looking for a speaker for your next event or a leadership coach to develop people and build an authentic team, contact Doug at doug.strickel@gmail.com and learn more about PLUS.
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