Years ago, I was guilty of critizing leaders of colleges, churches, state government, federal government and of course our presidents. I also ran from leadership simply because I did not want to deal with people and the problems that they created. Slowly, but surely, leadership chased me and 18 years ago, I became a leader. As soon as I sat in the chair of a leader, I realized that the job was not as easy as I had imagined. Today, I realize that leadership involves a tremendous knowledge base and the power to influence people. A good leader does not force people or trick people into following their agendas. The hallmark of a great leader is someone who is trustworthy. My question after 18 years of community college leadership is this very important question. Have I been fair, firm and consistent in my affairs with the people that I have led?
This year's vacation plans were changed at the last minute due to unforeseen pressures from work. As the flow of life unfolded, it appears that I simply needed rest and relaxation. After four days away from the office, I finally feel human. My attachments to email, phone calls, meetings are beginning to fade. The last days of my vacation, I don't email, phone anyone or attend meeting. The pressures of these activities are only memories. I am simply relaxing.
What took me so long? Why do I fill every minute with my day with meetings, emails, and phone calls. Even on vacation, it was extremely difficult to relax on day one, day two and even day three. As a matter of fact, I spent the first day of my vacation reading and answering 500 emails. How sad!! How did I fall into this state? When did work become such an electronic burden?
Americans have become slaves to work and technology. We don't take the time to share a cup of tea with a neighbor or simply w...
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