Transformational Leadership – Workshop 3 (Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification)
The Appleton Greene Corporate Training Program (CTP) for Transformational Leadership is provided by Dr. Keis Certified Learning Provider (CLP). Program Specifications: Monthly cost USD$2,500.00; Monthly Workshops 6 hours; Monthly Support 4 hours; Program Duration 12 months; Program orders subject to ongoing availability.
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Learning Provider Profile
Dr. Keis, is a globally recognized authority on behavioral assessment strategies and processes and an expert in leadership, purpose, and wellness. He has spent over three decades serving thousands of companies, associations, industry groups, and leaders in over 30 countries. He has been recognized as one of the top three Leadership Development consultants and boasts one of the Top Ten Coaching Processes globally by HR.com Lead 500 Awards.
Dr. Keis is a prolific content creator, having authored over 4 million words of content, including 4 books and a dozen assessments. Dr. Keis has conducted more than 3,000 presentations and 10,000 hours of coaching and consulting, earning him a reputation as a sought-after author, speaker, trainer, podcast host, and media guest.
Beyond his professional work, Dr. Keis is deeply committed to his community. He has served as director, chair, or president of several community groups and has consistently donated his expertise to youth events and initiatives. He is the 2023 recipient of the 4-H Canada Distinguished Alumni Award, further recognizing his commitment to leadership and service.
From his humble beginnings as a dairy farmer, to his achievements as a globally recognized expert in professional development, Dr. Keis is a shining example of how one can overcome personal obstacles, such as dyslexia, and make substantial contributions to global industries and societies. His story, expertise, and commitment to purpose-driven work make him an exemplary role model for aspiring professionals in any field.
MOST Analysis
Mission Statement
Knowing oneself deeply is critical to successful leadership. We will take you through a journey of self-discovery and confirmation of your beliefs and purpose and what do you truly value? Find out in this introspective module. Align your actions with your motivational values and get clarity on your life’s priorities and direction. Embrace mindfulness and emotional intelligence for a well-rounded leadership approach.
Objectives
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
03. Clarifying What You Believe: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
05. What Do You Really Value?: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
07. Living On Purpose: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. 1 Month
08. Your Positive Review: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
11. Your Positive Preview: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals: departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development. Time Allocated: 1 Month
Strategies
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
03. Clarifying What You Believe: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
05. What Do You Really Value?: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
07. Living On Purpose: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
08. Your Positive Review: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
11. Your Positive Preview: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals: Each individual department head to undertake departmental SWOT analysis; strategy research & development.
Tasks
01. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!.
02. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies.
03. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Clarifying What You Believe.
04. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Beliefs Clarity Exercises.
05. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze What Do You Really Value?.
06. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze What Do You Really Value? Part 2.
07. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Living On Purpose.
08. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Your Positive Review.
09. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions.
10. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Key Word Identification and Tabulation.
11. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Your Positive Preview.
12. Create a task on your calendar, to be completed within the next month, to analyze Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals.
Introduction
In the realm of leadership, one cannot underestimate the potency of self-awareness. Leaders who understand their beliefs, recognize their personal purpose, and are clear about their values are better positioned to inspire, guide, and leave a lasting impact. This introspective journey, which requires a combination of self-discovery and self-affirmation, not only shapes one’s leadership approach but also influences every sphere of one’s life.
The Importance of Self-Discovery in Leadership
Before diving into the depths of beliefs and values, it’s essential to understand the significance of self-discovery. The realm of leadership, a multifaceted discipline that goes beyond mere management of teams and resources, fundamentally demands a deeper understanding of oneself. A true leader is someone who not only leads with vision but also embodies the ideals, principles, and values they wish to inspire in others. However, how can one communicate these principles effectively if they themselves have not undergone the journey of self-discovery? The leadership landscape is replete with tales of leaders who had tremendous potential but faltered due to a lack of self-awareness. Hence, self-discovery isn’t merely an introspective luxury but a vital tool in the arsenal of a competent leader.
Leading from Within
A leader stands at the forefront, setting the pace, molding the vision, and guiding others towards achieving collective goals. But, this guidance requires a deep-rooted sense of direction. The leader must first find this direction within themselves. This is where the significance of self-discovery in leadership takes precedence.
Discovering oneself is not about narcissistic self-absorption. It’s about understanding one’s strengths, acknowledging weaknesses, recognizing motivations, and confronting biases. A leader aware of their strengths can leverage them to motivate and inspire teams, while understanding their weaknesses allows them to build teams that can complement those areas.
Self-Discovery: A Continuous Process
The journey of self-discovery is not a one-time event. It is a continuous, ever-evolving process that demands regular introspection. As challenges and experiences shape a leader, their understanding of themselves also evolves. They must frequently take stock of these changes and recalibrate their leadership approach accordingly.
For instance, a leader might begin their journey being highly task-oriented, focusing on results and efficiency. But as they climb up the leadership ladder and face varied scenarios, they might discover the paramount importance of people skills, empathy, and emotional intelligence. Such revelations can only arise from a journey inward, continually reassessing one’s leadership style and adapting it.
A Compass Amidst the Chaos
In today’s fast-paced world, leaders are constantly bombarded with information, decisions, and challenges. Amidst this chaos, it’s easy to lose sight of one’s path or get swayed by external pressures. Self-discovery acts as a compass, ensuring that despite the external noise, a leader remains true to their core values and beliefs.
By understanding their intrinsic motivations and drivers, leaders can filter out distractions and maintain focus on what truly matters. Whether it’s a difficult decision about company strategy, managing team conflicts, or charting the future course, a clear understanding of oneself ensures that choices made align with the leader’s personal and organizational vision.
Building Authentic Leadership
One of the most revered qualities in a leader is authenticity. People are naturally drawn to leaders who are genuine, who lead with integrity and remain consistent in their actions and words. Authenticity cannot be feigned; it stems from a deep understanding of oneself.
When leaders embark on the path of self-discovery, they lay the groundwork for authentic leadership. They become more transparent in their communications, more consistent in their actions, and more accountable for their decisions. This authenticity fosters trust, a vital ingredient in the leader-team relationship.
Enhancing Decision-Making
Leaders are often faced with decisions that have far-reaching implications. Each choice made can affect teams, projects, and the broader organization. Armed with self-awareness, leaders can make decisions that are not just reactive but are aligned with their core beliefs and values. This alignment ensures that decisions are not just short-term fixes but contribute to the long-term vision and goals of the organization.
Furthermore, self-aware leaders can recognize when personal biases might cloud their judgment and can seek external perspectives to ensure balanced decision-making.
The Ripple Effect of Self-Discovery
When a leader prioritizes self-discovery, it creates a ripple effect throughout the organization. Team members are inspired to embark on their own journeys of self-awareness, leading to a more harmonious, understanding, and effective workplace. Conflicts can be addressed more constructively, collaborations become more fruitful, and the organizational culture thrives on mutual respect and understanding.
Beliefs: The Foundation of Leadership
At the core of every leader lie their beliefs. These are the deeply ingrained convictions that shape their perceptions, judgments, and actions. From a simple belief in oneself to complex views about the nature of teams, organizations, and societies, these convictions provide a roadmap for how leaders interact with the world around them.
Confirming one’s beliefs doesn’t mean being rigid. Instead, it’s about understanding the core principles that drive you and being open to evolving them as one grows and learns. Leaders should regularly introspect: What do I stand for? What won’t I stand for? Where do I draw the line? These questions reaffirm one’s beliefs and provide a consistent leadership brand.
The Underlying Power of Beliefs
While strategies can be taught, skills can be acquired, and tactics can be learned, beliefs are deeply personal. They manifest from individual life experiences, cultural backgrounds, moral compasses, and even innate temperament. This makes them incredibly potent. When a leader acts in alignment with their beliefs, their actions resonate with authenticity, garnering respect and trust from those they lead.
For instance, a leader who firmly believes in the value of transparency will naturally cultivate an open culture in their organization, encouraging open dialogues, feedback, and candid discussions. On the other hand, a leader whose beliefs are rooted in the importance of discipline and structure might foster an environment that values meticulous planning and adherence to protocols.
Consistency in Leadership through Beliefs
In the ever-evolving world of leadership, where new challenges arise and scenarios change rapidly, beliefs act as a constant, providing steadiness in the face of chaos. This consistency, brought about by unwavering beliefs, instills confidence in teams and stakeholders. They know what to expect from their leader, understanding the ethos that drives them.
When leaders act in alignment with their beliefs, they not only garner trust but also build a strong leadership brand. This brand, synonymous with their convictions, becomes their unique identifier, differentiating them in the vast leadership landscape.
Flexibility Within Firmness
However, holding strong beliefs does not equate to inflexibility. In fact, the most effective leaders are those who, while grounded in their core convictions, remain open-minded and receptive to new perspectives and learnings. The world is dynamic, and what works today might not be effective tomorrow. Thus, while beliefs provide a foundational base, they should not become shackles.
Regular introspection is crucial in this regard. By continually asking oneself questions like “What do I stand for?”, “What won’t I stand for?”, and “Where do I draw the line?”, leaders can ensure that their beliefs remain relevant and in tune with the evolving world. This practice of self-reflection not only reaffirms one’s convictions but also identifies areas where beliefs might need to evolve.
The Role of Beliefs in Decision Making
Every decision a leader makes, whether big or small, is tinted with the hue of their beliefs. These decisions, therefore, are not merely transactional but are reflective of deeper convictions. This is why, often, two leaders, when faced with the same challenge, might choose entirely different paths. Their beliefs guide them, influencing their perceptions and judgments.
For instance, a leader who believes in the potential of their team members might decide to invest in extensive training programs, seeing challenges as opportunities for growth. In contrast, a leader who views challenges as threats might opt for risk-averse strategies, focusing on damage control.
Influencing Organizational Culture
Leaders, knowingly or unknowingly, shape the culture of their organizations through their beliefs. The values they uphold, the behaviors they reward, and the standards they set, all seep down the organizational hierarchy, influencing the collective ethos of the organization. Over time, the leader’s beliefs become intertwined with the organization’s identity, making it crucial for leaders to be cognizant of the beliefs they project.
Purpose: The Driving Force
While beliefs lay the foundation, purpose provides the motivation. A clear personal purpose acts as a beacon, guiding leaders through challenges and dilemmas. It answers the fundamental question: Why do I do what I do?
To discover one’s purpose, leaders should look back at their life stories. Often, it’s in the pivotal moments, both highs and lows, where one finds clues to what truly drives them. Recognizing and articulating this purpose provides a sense of direction, ensuring that one’s efforts align with a larger, meaningful goal.
Values: The Pillars of Decision Making
If beliefs are the foundation and purpose the driving force, values are the pillars upon which leaders base their decisions. They are the non-negotiables, the principles that leaders won’t compromise on. Whether it’s integrity, honesty, excellence, or empathy, understanding what one values ensures consistent decision-making.
Discovering one’s values often requires reflection on past choices. When have you felt most proud? When have you felt regret? Often, these emotions are tied directly to one’s values, either being upheld or violated.
Alignment of Actions and Motivational Values
Discovering beliefs, purpose, and values isn’t an end but a beginning. The next step is to align one’s actions with these discoveries. It’s not enough to merely know what one stands for; it’s crucial to live it.
By aligning actions with motivational values, leaders become more authentic. They walk the talk, earning the respect and trust of those they lead. This alignment also brings personal satisfaction, knowing that one’s actions are in harmony with their deepest convictions.
Clarity on Life’s Priorities and Direction
With a clear understanding of beliefs, purpose, and values, leaders gain clarity on life’s priorities. They can differentiate between the essential and the noise, ensuring that their energies are directed towards what truly matters.
This clarity also brings a sense of peace. Leaders can confidently make choices, knowing they are aligned with their personal truths.
Differentiating the Essential from the Noise
Every day, leaders are bombarded with information, demands, opportunities, and dilemmas. Without a clear compass, it becomes all too easy to get sidetracked, to be consumed by the urgent rather than the important. However, when leaders possess a clear understanding of their core beliefs and values, they wield an intrinsic filter. This filter helps them sift through the cacophony of daily demands, separating the essential from the noise.
For instance, a leader whose values are deeply rooted in fostering personal growth will prioritize mentorship and team development, even amidst pressing deadlines. They recognize that while tasks are transient, the growth and evolution of their team have long-term significance. Conversely, a leader who values innovation might prioritize brainstorming sessions and idea incubation, ensuring that creativity is not stifled by routine operations.
Guided Decision Making
Clarity on life’s priorities extends beyond daily tasks—it permeates into strategic decisions and long-term planning. Leaders who are clear about their purpose can visualize a roadmap for their journey. Each decision, big or small, is seen through the lens of this roadmap. Does it align with the envisioned path? Does it resonate with their beliefs? Such clarity ensures that choices are not merely reactions to external stimuli but are instead well-thought-out responses that resonate with the leader’s inner truths.
Moreover, this clarity acts as a beacon during turbulent times. When faced with challenges or dilemmas, a clear understanding of one’s priorities can guide the way, ensuring that even in the face of adversity, the chosen path aligns with the leader’s core principles.
Peace in Alignment
Beyond strategy and decision-making, clarity on life’s priorities brings with it an invaluable gift: peace. When leaders act in harmony with their core beliefs, they experience an inner tranquility. There is no inner conflict, no tug-of-war between what they are doing and what they believe in. This alignment creates a sense of fulfillment, as every action and decision feels authentic and true.
This peace is not just an internal experience—it radiates outward, fostering an environment of trust and authenticity. Team members and stakeholders can sense when a leader is genuine, when their actions stem from deeply held convictions. This authenticity bolsters trust, paving the way for open communication, mutual respect, and collaborative growth.
Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence: Key Components of Modern Leadership
In this age of rapid change and constant distractions, two qualities stand out in effective leadership: mindfulness and emotional intelligence. Mindfulness, the practice of being present, allows leaders to be more in tune with their environment and their reactions to it. It ensures that they respond rather than react.
Emotional intelligence, on the other hand, allows leaders to understand and manage both their emotions and those of others. By being attuned to one’s emotional landscape, leaders can navigate interpersonal relationships more effectively, fostering collaboration and understanding.
Both mindfulness and emotional intelligence, rooted in deep self-awareness, complement the journey of confirming one’s beliefs and discovering personal purpose and values.
Conclusion: Embracing a Well-Rounded Leadership Approach
In the end, leadership is as much about leading oneself as it is about leading others. By embarking on this introspective journey of confirming beliefs and discovering one’s purpose and values, leaders equip themselves with a compass that guides their path. Coupled with mindfulness and emotional intelligence, they are better positioned to navigate the complexities of the modern world, leading with authenticity, clarity, and conviction. This well-rounded approach ensures not just personal fulfillment but also a lasting impact on those they lead.
Executive Summary
Chapter 1: Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
Character is foundational for impactful leadership. Unlike inherent traits, character is cultivated through disciplined decisions. Below are ten pivotal character traits to inspire and guide aspiring Transformational Leaders:
1. Forgiveness:
• As per Martin Luther King, Jr., forgiveness should be a constant attitude, not a sporadic act. By choosing to forgive, we free ourselves from the toxic bonds of resentment and bitterness. Holding onto grudges creates emotional, physical, and mental turmoil, and Quantum Physics terms this negative entanglement. Embracing forgiveness entails understanding its health benefits, differentiating between forgiveness and condoning harmful actions, and recognizing the importance of forgiving oneself.
2. Integrity:
• Authenticity is crucial. Misrepresenting oneself, like exaggerating qualifications, compromises integrity. True leaders correct such errors, upholding honesty, even at the risk of embarrassment.
3. Gratitude and Thankfulness:
• Gratitude is about recognizing and appreciating benefits, while thankfulness is about expressing it. Being conscious of our blessings enriches our emotional wellbeing and perspective.
4. Worrying About Others’ Opinions:
• Some may overly concern themselves with external opinions. Transformational Leaders, however, prioritize their convictions over appeasement. In an era of widespread critique, it’s essential to value authenticity over mere acceptance. Noteworthy individuals, like Nobel Prize winner Dan Shechtman, often faced criticism before gaining acknowledgment.
5. Love of Learning:
• Continuous learning enhances well-being and personal evolution. Lifelong learners, driven by genuine passion, are more adept at adapting and achieving in a dynamic world.
6. Avoiding Distractions:
• With the rise in media consumption, avoiding distractions becomes imperative. High media engagement correlates with declining academic performance, with media addiction surpassing other addictions in prevalence.
7. Humor:
• Light-heartedness alleviates stress, fosters positivity, and strengthens immunity. Individuals with a sense of humor often maintain a healthier outlook on life.
8. Persistence:
• In an age of immediacy, persistence stands as a testament to resilience and commitment. Success often demands tenacity, and persistent individuals are equipped to overcome challenges and adversities.
9. Love:
• Love, a conscious choice, is central to human existence. While opening oneself to love can be vulnerable, it’s also the epitome of courage and compassion.
10. The Power of Association:
• Our social circles, especially our five closest associates, often mirror our aspirations, values, and success. Aligning with individuals or mentors who resonate with our goals and values accelerates personal and professional growth.
In sum, these character traits are not just virtues but essential building blocks for those aspiring to be Transformational Leaders. Embracing these traits means committing to self-reflection, continuous learning, and genuine connection with others.
Chapter 2: Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
Understanding the foundational concepts of Transformational Leadership (TL) is paramount before delving into personal exercises on Belief, Identity, and Purpose. This guide offers insights into principles, truths, strategies, and myths central to effective TL.
Key Concepts and Insights:
1. The Myth of Motivation: We naturally gravitate towards enjoyable activities, making external motivation redundant. If you find yourself constantly seeking motivation, it’s essential to re-evaluate the alignment of that activity with your purpose.
2. Change of Form—Not Content: While our interests might evolve in appearance over time, their core essence remains unchanged. Interests are empowering and provide sustenance during hardships.
3. Clues to Purpose: Everywhere around us are hints pointing to our purpose. These clues resonate with feelings of fulfillment. Cultivating mindfulness can help capture these clues amidst life’s chaos.
4. Myth of Mutual Exclusiveness: The misconception that to gain something, one must sacrifice another is false. True balance is about harmonizing all facets of life based on personal values.
5. An Idea Precedes Money: Resources flow towards well-conceived ideas, not the other way around. Entitlement and expecting resources without effort is a flawed mindset.
6. Beware of Negative Gurus: It’s crucial to distinguish between constructive feedback and negativity. To realize one’s full potential, filtering out negativity is imperative.
7. Overcoming Personal Hang-ups: While everyone has personal issues or “stuff”, it’s essential to face them head-on and not use them as excuses for inaction.
8. Redefining Career: In the modern era, work isn’t about fixed jobs but about expertise. It’s about integrating professional and personal lives into a harmonious entity.
9. Attraction vs. Distraction: Knowing when to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ is vital. Embrace what complements your life’s direction and avoid distractions.
10. Intolerance Is Okay: As one grows, they naturally distance from toxic relationships and environments that hinder growth.
11. Subtle Sustainable Approach: TL is about a grounded, patient approach rather than instant results.
12. Two Cautions: Avoid impulsive changes in career or relationships. Reflective decisions are key.
13. Being Responsible: TL is rooted in self-accountability. Leading with purpose and clarity empowers individuals to serve and inspire their community.
The Foundation: Beliefs
Beliefs are profound convictions shaping our perspectives and actions. These are informed by personal experiences, societal norms, and spiritual insights. For effective leadership, understanding and clarity about one’s beliefs are critical.
Clarity in beliefs is the linchpin for personal motivation and collective cohesion. Without it, individuals and organizations risk aimlessness. Deep introspection and proactive engagement in self-discovery lead to refined visions, goals, and actionable plans.
Transformational Leadership hinges on leaders having well-defined beliefs and values. Leaders should be rooted in a robust moral foundation to earn trust and ensure consistent decision-making. A comprehensive understanding of one’s beliefs aids personal and professional development.
In summary, Transformational Leadership is a holistic approach that emphasizes clarity in beliefs, integrating personal and professional lives, and leading with purpose. As you embark on this journey, internalize these strategies and principles, and they will guide your path towards effective leadership.
Chapter 3: Clarifying What You Believe
Beliefs shape our understanding of the world and influence our actions. They’re deeply personal, stemming from individual experiences, upbringing, and reflections on profound life questions. Some of these questions touch on the nature of existence, the purpose of life, the nature of truth, the concept of good and evil, and the potential of an afterlife. The myriad answers to these questions can lead to both connections and divisions among people, affecting interpersonal relationships, organizational dynamics, and even geopolitical tensions.
The Challenge in Achieving Belief Clarity
Despite the inherent value in understanding one’s beliefs, many shy away from deep introspection. In a study spanning three decades, approximately 32% of students felt overwhelmed by these profound questions or deemed them irrelevant. The primary reasons for this avoidance included confusion, an absence of clear criteria to validate truth, apathy, ignorance of the benefits of clarity, insufficient information, or mere laziness.
Benefits of Clear Belief Systems
Clarity in beliefs has tangible advantages. Research suggests that individuals with a well-defined belief system tend to be less anxious, more successful, enjoy healthier relationships, and suffer fewer stress-related ailments. They operate with more explicit assumptions and often receive clearer feedback about their actions’ consequences. However, some critique such individuals, arguing that many adopt beliefs inculcated during childhood without question. The essence of this discourse is that personal beliefs, even when adopted passively, significantly impact an individual’s approach to life.
The Perils of Unclear Beliefs
In contrast, those with nebulous beliefs often exhibit a chameleon-like approach, swaying with societal, economic, or political winds. While some may deem this adaptability a strength, it can also lead to inner turmoil, challenging decision-making, and conflicted relationships. Those with solid belief structures tend to act more consistently, garnering environmental feedback and fostering understanding and tolerance. Shared beliefs can also fuel collaborative endeavors, from marriages to business partnerships.
Beliefs, Purpose, and Leadership
Humans inherently seek purpose, often seeking external sources for validation. This search for meaning is intrinsic to the “Transformational Leadership” process. The article’s author shares a poignant personal story of grappling with life’s meaning, ultimately finding solace in the existence of a higher power. While the course respects diverse beliefs, participants are encouraged to introspectively explore the intertwined topics of beliefs, purpose, and values.
Unveiling Spiritual Truths
The quest for spiritual truth can be sensitive but is undeniably pivotal. While societal pressures might obscure open discussions, the essence remains: our lives operate under immutable natural laws and truths. Much like gravity’s unwavering presence, spiritual truths remain constant, irrespective of personal beliefs. Embracing relativism implies accepting all forms of behavior, some of which may be morally reprehensible. Seeking genuine spiritual truth, rather than attempting to mold it, is therefore paramount.
In summary, personal beliefs, whether clear or muddled, play a pivotal role in shaping our actions, relationships, and leadership qualities. Engaging in introspection, seeking clarity, and respecting diverse belief systems can pave the way for a more purposeful life and effective leadership.
Chapter 4: Beliefs Clarity Exercises
Participants are encouraged to reflect on deep philosophical questions related to their beliefs and the universe’s nature. These questions, including Dr. Steiger’s set, address life’s meaning, the existence of God, the nature of evil, and life after death. Beliefs are pivotal as they form the foundation for our decisions, attitudes, and interpretation of the world. While some people have clearly defined beliefs, others remain unclear or dismissive. It’s crucial to approach beliefs cautiously, as they shape our reality. Some beliefs, such as fascism or authoritarian rule, are deemed erroneous because they contradict the importance of free will. Continual reflection can provide more profound life and work insights.
Furthermore, one’s identity is anchored in their beliefs about themselves, their experiences, successes, failures, and perceptions. This identity is shaped by the assumptions one makes about life and humanity. For instance, a nihilistic belief might lead to a “seize the day” attitude, while a spiritual perspective sees all humans as invaluable. To better understand oneself, individuals can list descriptors of their self-perception, recognizing that self-view plays a significant role in determining life’s trajectory.
Chapter 5: What Do You Really Value?
The Power of Clarifying Our Values
Understanding and articulating our core values is pivotal for a fulfilling and confident life. Without clarity on these values, it’s challenging to make values-based decisions. A wealth of research supports the importance of values in our lives.
Notable Research on Values:
1. Stress Reduction: A study from the University of California, Los Angeles revealed that individuals who affirmed their values had lower cortisol responses, implying that recognizing one’s values could mitigate stress.
2. Boosting Willpower: Research in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology highlighted that affirming values can restore depleted willpower, aiding discipline and resilience.
3. Enhanced Openness: The University of Chicago found that value affirmation reduced bias and increased objective evaluation.
4. Better Accuracy: A study from the University of Toronto showed that people receptive to their values were more open to negative feedback and better at recognizing and rectifying their mistakes.
5. Closing Achievement Gaps: Stanford University’s Geoffrey Cohen discovered that value affirmation improved test scores, particularly among minority students, emphasizing the importance of understanding our values to prevent using external threats as performance excuses.
Clearly, having well-defined values is a vital step in our life journey.
Defining a Value: Values are deeply personal principles that hold significant worth in our lives. They can stem from environmental influences, social factors, or even genetics. Regardless of their origin, they remain unique to each individual. Knowing one’s values is foundational for decision-making in various aspects of life. For example, if someone values organization, they’ll thrive in organized settings. Alternatively, if someone values pleasure, they’ll gravitate towards enjoyable experiences.
Sadly, many are discontented with their lives, which might result from not recognizing or living in alignment with their core values.
Values in Action: A Case Study Consider a personal story where a father had to choose between attending a potentially lucrative investment meeting and his children’s concert. Influenced by a scarcity mentality, he initially saw the investment as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. However, upon reflection, he realized that the truly irreplaceable moment was his children’s concert, aligning with his core values.
This story prompts introspection: Can we instantly identify our top values and use them for daily decision-making?
The Dual Facet of Values: While it’s essential to know our values, it’s equally crucial to understand the values of those we interact with. Conflicts often arise from differing values. For instance, a conflict might emerge between a wife valuing security, wanting to save money, and a husband valuing recreation, desiring to buy a boat. Recognizing the deeply personal nature of values is paramount for harmonious interactions.
Various factors drive individuals’ behaviors, needs, and fears, shaped by their values. Understanding why people prioritize certain activities over others sheds light on internal motivation theories, suggesting we’re drawn to activities that satisfy our primary needs.
Values and Feelings: Emotions offer insights into our values. Feelings of satisfaction hint at an activity fulfilling our needs, while dissatisfaction suggests the opposite. Consequently, activities evoking positive emotions are more valuable to us than those causing negative feelings.
In summary, clarifying our values is essential for a fulfilling life. Research unequivocally highlights the benefits of understanding and living by our values. Recognizing these principles not only guides personal decisions but also fosters understanding in interpersonal relationships.
Chapter 6: What Do You Really Value? Part 2
Understanding Values and Their Application
• Values and Their Core Role: The module emphasizes the importance of behavioral values, which are internal motivators pivotal to a person’s fulfillment. They differ from contextual values, which might change depending on one’s life circumstances.
• Determining Your Values: Participants are guided through an exercise that helps them identify their top 7 values. This exercise is compared to “window shopping”, where participants prioritize values that resonate with them the most.
• The Importance of Values: Values serve as filters in decision-making. Consistent alignment with one’s values results in a fulfilled life. However, there’s a disparity between what people claim to value and their actual life choices, indicating a possible misalignment.
Values, Needs, and Fears
• Interconnectedness: Every value has associated needs and fears. Fulfilling these needs reduces fears, while unmet needs amplify them. For instance, someone with a strong need for acceptance might have an equally strong fear of rejection.
• Behavior and Decision-Making: Our feelings, both positive and negative, reflect our values, needs, and fears. Meeting our needs brings satisfaction, while prolonged dissatisfaction can lead to heightened fears and negative behaviors.
Values in Action – Case Studies
1. Values in the Workplace: A case study showcased the pitfalls of not matching job roles with employees’ core values. A credit collection department faced a 400% turnover because employees with a core value of “tranquility” struggled with the inherent conflict in their roles. Adjusting hiring practices reduced the turnover dramatically.
2. Honesty in Sales: Another case highlighted a sales representative who claimed honesty as a core value but showed situational values during a transaction. The fear of job loss outweighed his professed value of honesty, revealing his true priorities.
3. Living Authentically: A young man in a workshop realized none of his top values aligned with his current life because he had always followed his parents’ desires rather than his own.
Reflection and Authenticity
• Value Verification: The module suggests evaluating if you’re living according to your values by applying a time and energy test to each of your top values.
• Values in Decision Making: Being authentic and true to one’s values can influence major life decisions. For instance, prioritizing a value like independence might deter someone from accepting a high-paying job that doesn’t resonate with that value.
• Value Compatibility in Relationships: It’s crucial not only to understand and respect our values but also to recognize and accept the values of those close to us. Mutual respect can strengthen relationships.
In summary, this module underscores the profound role values play in shaping our lives, decisions, and relationships. It offers tools to identify, reflect upon, and align our lives with our most cherished values. By doing so, one can achieve a deeper sense of fulfillment and authenticity.
Chapter 7: Living On Purpose
Mike McManus, the founder of the Source Experience, encapsulates a profound thought – that the crux of both career and life dilemmas boils down to understanding ‘WHAT’ we truly want. Delving into the ‘HOW’ and ‘WHY’ might just complicate the journey.
Every individual is on a lifelong quest to discover their purpose. Contrary to common belief, one’s purpose is not an endpoint or a goal, but an ongoing journey, a continuous engagement. It is the essence that makes life rewarding and fulfilling. Unfortunately, most people never truly acknowledge or realize this purpose. Evidence of this misalignment can be seen in studies like the Gallup global workplace survey, which indicated a dismal 13% workplace engagement rate globally.
Surprisingly, even in places like British Columbia, known for its beauty and appeal, residents display a disconnect between their surroundings and their personal satisfaction. The vast array of choices and information available today can overwhelm someone who hasn’t identified their life purpose. With over 40,000 job descriptions in the U.S alone and more emerging daily, the path to finding one’s true calling has become labyrinthine.
Several reasons contribute to this purpose disconnect:
1. Impatience and Distraction: Our ‘instant gratification’ society lacks the patience needed for deep introspection.
2. Misplaced Priorities: People often prioritize short-term pleasures over long-term self-discovery.
3. Consumerist Culture: The world mistakenly equates material acquisition with fulfillment.
4. Overwhelm: The vastness of the purpose quest intimidates many.
5. External Influences: Well-intentioned advice from others can often mislead individuals from their true path.
Renowned authors like Richard N. Bolles and Richard Knowdell, with their combined experience of over 80 years in the field of career development and life purpose, opined that despite the plethora of resources available, people remain adrift because they’re unwilling to put in the effort. The allure of distractions like social media makes it easier for people to observe life rather than participate in it.
However, the journey towards purpose is rewarding. Embracing your unique gifts, talents, and calling not only brightens your life but also fuels your daily actions. This “On Purpose” module is crafted for individuals eager to maximize their potential and contribute meaningfully. It’s a testament to my purpose, which is to guide others towards leading purpose-driven lives.
Purpose isn’t just a personal journey; it has professional implications too. A colleague’s experience with a Fortune 100 company underscored the importance of purpose in creating an engaged workforce. When employees are clear about their purpose, they are more motivated and aligned with organizational goals.
Guidelines for Your Purpose Journey:
1. Commitment: True commitment demands unwavering dedication to oneself and one’s beliefs.
2. Time: Crafting your purpose is an art. It requires patience and consistent effort.
3. Be Candid: Honest self-reflection is crucial. Remember, this journey is personal.
4. Documentation: Maintaining a purpose journal can be invaluable. Whether you pen down thoughts or record them, ensure they’re transcribed for future reference.
5. Consistency: Stick to the process. Each step is essential for complete clarity.
6. Impact of Purpose: Engaging with your purpose benefits not just you, but also those around you.
The crux of this transformational journey is to discern who you are, delineate your desires, and activate a coherent life and career plan. Engaging wholeheartedly in this process will undoubtedly yield rich dividends. Your purpose awaits!
Chapter 8: Your Positive Review
The first principle of ethical power is Purpose. As described by Kenneth Blanchard & Norman Vincent Peale, purpose is the underlying intention or objective that guides our actions and decisions. It’s not just about our immediate goals; it’s the overarching vision we have for ourselves and the kind of life we aspire to lead.
Core Exercise: Positive Review
Objective:
• To self-assess and reflect on positive experiences from your past, present, and anticipated future.
• To identify patterns, interests, and inclinations across different aspects of life.
• To harness these insights for clarity in defining one’s purpose.
Duration: 1 hour
Description: Participants will create a positive-only autobiography. They will detail events from their earliest memories to the present, and project into their anticipated future. It’s essential to focus solely on positive experiences, avoiding any neutral or negative recollections. The review will be supported by personal artifacts like photos, videos, letters, etc., to aid memory recall.
The exercise is broken down into eight categories:
1. Senses – relating to our five senses.
2. People – individuals who have influenced or left an impression on us.
3. Places – significant geographic locations.
4. Intellectual – intriguing ideas, concepts, or inventions.
5. Experiences – key events or activities.
6. Belonging – affiliations with groups, associations, or clubs.
7. Learning – formal and informal education journeys.
8. Work – both paid and volunteer experiences.
Each category aims to delve deep into the aspects that have brought joy or inspiration, helping participants identify elements of their life that align with their purpose. For instance, under “Senses,” one might reflect on experiences that have deeply engaged their senses, from the sound of crashing waves to the aroma of a favorite food.
Case Studies: Two case studies are provided. The first offers a generic example of how an individual might fill out their Positive Review, from early childhood memories like baking with a grandmother to current professional experiences. The second case study zooms in on a specific age, 13, and demonstrates how the eight categories might be populated for that year.
Key Takeaway: This workshop and exercise aim to give participants a clearer understanding of their purpose by reflecting on positive life experiences. Through careful introspection and analysis of different life areas, participants can discern patterns and inclinations that might point towards their true purpose.
Chapter 9: Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
Personal Exercise: Reflecting on Key Moments
The objective of this workshop is to identify and document the critical times in one’s life to understand when they were living and leading “On Purpose.”
Instructions:
1. Reflect on the 10 most important times in your life.
2. Ponder on the 10 most exciting events or experiences.
3. Think about the 10 most peaceful times in your life.
Note: This activity is a reminder that our perceptions of the “Big 10” moments might evolve as we grow older. For instance, major life events like marriages, births, and milestones with family often become integral parts of such reflections.
Understanding Passions
Objective: Recognize and embrace our passions as they are emotional anchors and triggers that come naturally and love to engage in our lives.
Discussion Points:
• The elasticity of time and how passions affect our perception of it.
• The debate on following passions versus honing natural skills. While some believe mastery and skill development lead to passion, it’s essential to understand that true passion drives perseverance and contributes to greatness.
• The alignment of high passions and high skills creates an optimum “sweet spot.”
• Not always do we recognize our passions early on; sometimes, external factors or the environment can hinder the realization of inherent passions.
Illustrative Case Study:
• A personal story about a young boy with an innate talent for music but a disdain for formal lessons. Traditional teaching methods stifled his passion, but as he matured, he naturally gravitated towards his love for music and taught himself various instruments.
Exercise: Document the seven greatest passions or loves of your life.
Key Takeaway: Understanding and acknowledging our important moments and passions can provide insights into our life’s purpose. Embracing our genuine interests, even if they deviate from conventional paths, can lead to fulfilling experiences.
Chapter 10: Key Word Identification and Tabulation
The “Your Key Words Leave Clues” workshop is designed to guide participants in unearthing significant insights into their passions, strengths, and values by identifying and analyzing key words. These selected words act as vital clues, shedding light on an individual’s purpose and life direction.
Before embarking on this reflective journey, participants must be equipped with the necessary prerequisites. It’s imperative that they have completed prior exercises, including the Positive Review, Top 10, and Seven Passion exercises. Having all the relevant data in a printed format is essential for the ease of the process. Furthermore, to achieve optimal focus and introspection, it’s recommended that participants set up a calm, distraction-free environment for themselves.
The first exercise, titled “Your Key Words Analysis,” requires participants to meticulously review their materials, especially focusing on the Positive Review and other relevant assessments. During this review, they are to circle any key words or phrases that resonate deeply, especially those that evoke strong positive emotions. Additionally, any word that is repeated should be consistently circled each time it appears.
Subsequent to this, in the “Your Key Words Tabulation” exercise, participants need to tally up the occurrences of each circled word or phrase. This will result in a comprehensive list of key words, each paired with its respective frequency. An illustrative example might read as “Speaking – 50” or “Travel – 35.”
The next phase, “Your Key Words Sequence,” asks participants to order their list of key words based on frequency, with the most frequently appearing words at the top. To ensure that the list is as meaningful as possible, participants can group similar or related words together.
Building on this, the “Creating Your Master Key Word List” exercise challenges participants to distill their insights further. Starting with their sequenced list, they need to determine and prioritize their top 20 key words. This is then further refined to a more focused list of the top 12 key words. The criteria for this selection is not solely based on frequency but rather the intrinsic importance of each word to the individual.
Concluding the workshop is the “Your Key Word Pattern” exercise. Here, participants are asked to visualize their journey by arranging their chosen 12 key words on a single sheet, crafting a visual pattern or theme. This arrangement is subjective, hinging on personal preference or intuition. Reflecting on this pattern, participants can discern emerging life themes or directions.
In essence, through a systematic exploration of key words, participants of the workshop are positioned to gain profound insights into their core life themes and foundational passions. This clarity serves as a guiding compass, ensuring alignment between their life decisions and intrinsic values.
Chapter 11: Your Positive Preview
The “Positive Preview” exercise is an opportunity for reflection and forward planning. Having already completed the “Positive Review,” participants are now encouraged to envision what they genuinely desire in various areas of life. The instructions stress authenticity, emphasizing the need for desires that resonate deeply rather than succumbing to external pressures. The aim is to align aspirations with one’s purpose, goals, desires, and talents.
Areas to consider in the “Positive Preview” include personal ambitions, family goals, spiritual life, community service, and more. Interestingly, work aspirations are reserved for the subsequent chapter.
A personal exercise, “Crafting Your Ideal Work/Career Life,” pushes readers to think beyond a typical job. It encourages a broader perspective, thinking of a vocation or calling, and taking into account their life’s journey so far. A related case study exemplifies a friend who tailored her career to fit her ideal life, emphasizing adaptability and aligning one’s career to one’s purpose.
The passage concludes by urging readers to be open-minded and expansive in their aspirations, using the author’s unexpected journey to becoming a bestselling author as a motivational anecdote. The overarching theme is to always align decisions with the fundamental questions: Why are you here, and what contributions do you wish to make in the world?
This introspective journey is complemented by visual elements and exercises to stimulate reflection and clarity on one’s ideal career.
Chapter 12: Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Purpose of Life Wheel
The Life Wheel acts as a guideline for your life’s direction, focusing on your Master Life Purpose. Completing this wheel lets you check if activities or people align with your purpose.
Structure of Life Wheel: The wheel consists of various segments representing different life areas. Every segment needs to be filled to maintain balance. Statements in each segment should define your intent, philosophy, and high-level objectives.
Approach: There’s no distinction between personal and work life – it’s one life. A balanced life means living according to your vision. Users should approach the list without feeling overwhelmed, trusting the process. These statements are important as they guide your direction.
Instructions: Users must detail their vision and set goals for each segment. These statements should be in the active tense, implying constant striving towards these goals.
Exercises: There are exercises prompting users to create vision and goal statements for 12 areas including Self, Family, Relatives, Friends, Learning, Spiritual, Public Policy, Social Life, Recreational, Athletics/Physical Health, Financial Portfolio, and Community Service.
Partner Exercise on Action Steps: It’s emphasized that this process isn’t about completion but continuous action. Users are advised to distill their learnings into small, manageable action steps to share with an accountability partner. Drawing inspiration from the concept of “Baby Steps”, the module stresses the importance of small actions in driving momentum towards bigger goals.
Final Thoughts: Users are guided to visualize their achievements a year from now, energizing their approach to the tasks. While the Life Wheel provides the strategic direction, the Action Steps translate visions into real activities. Users should feel inspired and not burdened, continually updating their list of steps. The emphasis is on the importance of small, consistent steps over large, daunting ones.
Curriculum
Transformational Leadership – Workshop 3 – Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification
- Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
- Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
- Clarifying What You Believe
- Beliefs Clarity Exercises
- What Do You Really Value?
- What Do You Really Value? Part 2
- Living On Purpose
- Your Positive Review
- Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
- Key Word Identification and Tabulation
- Your Positive Preview
- Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Distance Learning
Introduction
Welcome to Appleton Greene and thank you for enrolling on the Transformational Leadership corporate training program. You will be learning through our unique facilitation via distance-learning method, which will enable you to practically implement everything that you learn academically. The methods and materials used in your program have been designed and developed to ensure that you derive the maximum benefits and enjoyment possible. We hope that you find the program challenging and fun to do. However, if you have never been a distance-learner before, you may be experiencing some trepidation at the task before you. So we will get you started by giving you some basic information and guidance on how you can make the best use of the modules, how you should manage the materials and what you should be doing as you work through them. This guide is designed to point you in the right direction and help you to become an effective distance-learner. Take a few hours or so to study this guide and your guide to tutorial support for students, while making notes, before you start to study in earnest.
Study environment
You will need to locate a quiet and private place to study, preferably a room where you can easily be isolated from external disturbances or distractions. Make sure the room is well-lit and incorporates a relaxed, pleasant feel. If you can spoil yourself within your study environment, you will have much more of a chance to ensure that you are always in the right frame of mind when you do devote time to study. For example, a nice fire, the ability to play soft soothing background music, soft but effective lighting, perhaps a nice view if possible and a good size desk with a comfortable chair. Make sure that your family know when you are studying and understand your study rules. Your study environment is very important. The ideal situation, if at all possible, is to have a separate study, which can be devoted to you. If this is not possible then you will need to pay a lot more attention to developing and managing your study schedule, because it will affect other people as well as yourself. The better your study environment, the more productive you will be.
Study tools & rules
Try and make sure that your study tools are sufficient and in good working order. You will need to have access to a computer, scanner and printer, with access to the internet. You will need a very comfortable chair, which supports your lower back, and you will need a good filing system. It can be very frustrating if you are spending valuable study time trying to fix study tools that are unreliable, or unsuitable for the task. Make sure that your study tools are up to date. You will also need to consider some study rules. Some of these rules will apply to you and will be intended to help you to be more disciplined about when and how you study. This distance-learning guide will help you and after you have read it you can put some thought into what your study rules should be. You will also need to negotiate some study rules for your family, friends or anyone who lives with you. They too will need to be disciplined in order to ensure that they can support you while you study. It is important to ensure that your family and friends are an integral part of your study team. Having their support and encouragement can prove to be a crucial contribution to your successful completion of the program. Involve them in as much as you can.
Successful distance-learning
Distance-learners are freed from the necessity of attending regular classes or workshops, since they can study in their own way, at their own pace and for their own purposes. But unlike traditional internal training courses, it is the student’s responsibility, with a distance-learning program, to ensure that they manage their own study contribution. This requires strong self-discipline and self-motivation skills and there must be a clear will to succeed. Those students who are used to managing themselves, are good at managing others and who enjoy working in isolation, are more likely to be good distance-learners. It is also important to be aware of the main reasons why you are studying and of the main objectives that you are hoping to achieve as a result. You will need to remind yourself of these objectives at times when you need to motivate yourself. Never lose sight of your long-term goals and your short-term objectives. There is nobody available here to pamper you, or to look after you, or to spoon-feed you with information, so you will need to find ways to encourage and appreciate yourself while you are studying. Make sure that you chart your study progress, so that you can be sure of your achievements and re-evaluate your goals and objectives regularly.
Self-assessment
Appleton Greene training programs are in all cases post-graduate programs. Consequently, you should already have obtained a business-related degree and be an experienced learner. You should therefore already be aware of your study strengths and weaknesses. For example, which time of the day are you at your most productive? Are you a lark or an owl? What study methods do you respond to the most? Are you a consistent learner? How do you discipline yourself? How do you ensure that you enjoy yourself while studying? It is important to understand yourself as a learner and so some self-assessment early on will be necessary if you are to apply yourself correctly. Perform a SWOT analysis on yourself as a student. List your internal strengths and weaknesses as a student and your external opportunities and threats. This will help you later on when you are creating a study plan. You can then incorporate features within your study plan that can ensure that you are playing to your strengths, while compensating for your weaknesses. You can also ensure that you make the most of your opportunities, while avoiding the potential threats to your success.
Accepting responsibility as a student
Training programs invariably require a significant investment, both in terms of what they cost and in the time that you need to contribute to study and the responsibility for successful completion of training programs rests entirely with the student. This is never more apparent than when a student is learning via distance-learning. Accepting responsibility as a student is an important step towards ensuring that you can successfully complete your training program. It is easy to instantly blame other people or factors when things go wrong. But the fact of the matter is that if a failure is your failure, then you have the power to do something about it, it is entirely in your own hands. If it is always someone else’s failure, then you are powerless to do anything about it. All students study in entirely different ways, this is because we are all individuals and what is right for one student, is not necessarily right for another. In order to succeed, you will have to accept personal responsibility for finding a way to plan, implement and manage a personal study plan that works for you. If you do not succeed, you only have yourself to blame.
Planning
By far the most critical contribution to stress, is the feeling of not being in control. In the absence of planning we tend to be reactive and can stumble from pillar to post in the hope that things will turn out fine in the end. Invariably they don’t! In order to be in control, we need to have firm ideas about how and when we want to do things. We also need to consider as many possible eventualities as we can, so that we are prepared for them when they happen. Prescriptive Change, is far easier to manage and control, than Emergent Change. The same is true with distance-learning. It is much easier and much more enjoyable, if you feel that you are in control and that things are going to plan. Even when things do go wrong, you are prepared for them and can act accordingly without any unnecessary stress. It is important therefore that you do take time to plan your studies properly.
Management
Once you have developed a clear study plan, it is of equal importance to ensure that you manage the implementation of it. Most of us usually enjoy planning, but it is usually during implementation when things go wrong. Targets are not met and we do not understand why. Sometimes we do not even know if targets are being met. It is not enough for us to conclude that the study plan just failed. If it is failing, you will need to understand what you can do about it. Similarly if your study plan is succeeding, it is still important to understand why, so that you can improve upon your success. You therefore need to have guidelines for self-assessment so that you can be consistent with performance improvement throughout the program. If you manage things correctly, then your performance should constantly improve throughout the program.
Study objectives & tasks
The first place to start is developing your program objectives. These should feature your reasons for undertaking the training program in order of priority. Keep them succinct and to the point in order to avoid confusion. Do not just write the first things that come into your head because they are likely to be too similar to each other. Make a list of possible departmental headings, such as: Customer Service; E-business; Finance; Globalization; Human Resources; Technology; Legal; Management; Marketing and Production. Then brainstorm for ideas by listing as many things that you want to achieve under each heading and later re-arrange these things in order of priority. Finally, select the top item from each department heading and choose these as your program objectives. Try and restrict yourself to five because it will enable you to focus clearly. It is likely that the other things that you listed will be achieved if each of the top objectives are achieved. If this does not prove to be the case, then simply work through the process again.
Study forecast
As a guide, the Appleton Greene Transformational Leadership corporate training program should take 12-18 months to complete, depending upon your availability and current commitments. The reason why there is such a variance in time estimates is because every student is an individual, with differing productivity levels and different commitments. These differentiations are then exaggerated by the fact that this is a distance-learning program, which incorporates the practical integration of academic theory as an as a part of the training program. Consequently all of the project studies are real, which means that important decisions and compromises need to be made. You will want to get things right and will need to be patient with your expectations in order to ensure that they are. We would always recommend that you are prudent with your own task and time forecasts, but you still need to develop them and have a clear indication of what are realistic expectations in your case. With reference to your time planning: consider the time that you can realistically dedicate towards study with the program every week; calculate how long it should take you to complete the program, using the guidelines featured here; then break the program down into logical modules and allocate a suitable proportion of time to each of them, these will be your milestones; you can create a time plan by using a spreadsheet on your computer, or a personal organizer such as MS Outlook, you could also use a financial forecasting software; break your time forecasts down into manageable chunks of time, the more specific you can be, the more productive and accurate your time management will be; finally, use formulas where possible to do your time calculations for you, because this will help later on when your forecasts need to change in line with actual performance. With reference to your task planning: refer to your list of tasks that need to be undertaken in order to achieve your program objectives; with reference to your time plan, calculate when each task should be implemented; remember that you are not estimating when your objectives will be achieved, but when you will need to focus upon implementing the corresponding tasks; you also need to ensure that each task is implemented in conjunction with the associated training modules which are relevant; then break each single task down into a list of specific to do’s, say approximately ten to do’s for each task and enter these into your study plan; once again you could use MS Outlook to incorporate both your time and task planning and this could constitute your study plan; you could also use a project management software like MS Project. You should now have a clear and realistic forecast detailing when you can expect to be able to do something about undertaking the tasks to achieve your program objectives.
Performance management
It is one thing to develop your study forecast, it is quite another to monitor your progress. Ultimately it is less important whether you achieve your original study forecast and more important that you update it so that it constantly remains realistic in line with your performance. As you begin to work through the program, you will begin to have more of an idea about your own personal performance and productivity levels as a distance-learner. Once you have completed your first study module, you should re-evaluate your study forecast for both time and tasks, so that they reflect your actual performance level achieved. In order to achieve this you must first time yourself while training by using an alarm clock. Set the alarm for hourly intervals and make a note of how far you have come within that time. You can then make a note of your actual performance on your study plan and then compare your performance against your forecast. Then consider the reasons that have contributed towards your performance level, whether they are positive or negative and make a considered adjustment to your future forecasts as a result. Given time, you should start achieving your forecasts regularly.
With reference to time management: time yourself while you are studying and make a note of the actual time taken in your study plan; consider your successes with time-efficiency and the reasons for the success in each case and take this into consideration when reviewing future time planning; consider your failures with time-efficiency and the reasons for the failures in each case and take this into consideration when reviewing future time planning; re-evaluate your study forecast in relation to time planning for the remainder of your training program to ensure that you continue to be realistic about your time expectations. You need to be consistent with your time management, otherwise you will never complete your studies. This will either be because you are not contributing enough time to your studies, or you will become less efficient with the time that you do allocate to your studies. Remember, if you are not in control of your studies, they can just become yet another cause of stress for you.
With reference to your task management: time yourself while you are studying and make a note of the actual tasks that you have undertaken in your study plan; consider your successes with task-efficiency and the reasons for the success in each case; take this into consideration when reviewing future task planning; consider your failures with task-efficiency and the reasons for the failures in each case and take this into consideration when reviewing future task planning; re-evaluate your study forecast in relation to task planning for the remainder of your training program to ensure that you continue to be realistic about your task expectations. You need to be consistent with your task management, otherwise you will never know whether you are achieving your program objectives or not.
Keeping in touch
You will have access to qualified and experienced professors and tutors who are responsible for providing tutorial support for your particular training program. So don’t be shy about letting them know how you are getting on. We keep electronic records of all tutorial support emails so that professors and tutors can review previous correspondence before considering an individual response. It also means that there is a record of all communications between you and your professors and tutors and this helps to avoid any unnecessary duplication, misunderstanding, or misinterpretation. If you have a problem relating to the program, share it with them via email. It is likely that they have come across the same problem before and are usually able to make helpful suggestions and steer you in the right direction. To learn more about when and how to use tutorial support, please refer to the Tutorial Support section of this student information guide. This will help you to ensure that you are making the most of tutorial support that is available to you and will ultimately contribute towards your success and enjoyment with your training program.
Work colleagues and family
You should certainly discuss your program study progress with your colleagues, friends and your family. Appleton Greene training programs are very practical. They require you to seek information from other people, to plan, develop and implement processes with other people and to achieve feedback from other people in relation to viability and productivity. You will therefore have plenty of opportunities to test your ideas and enlist the views of others. People tend to be sympathetic towards distance-learners, so don’t bottle it all up in yourself. Get out there and share it! It is also likely that your family and colleagues are going to benefit from your labors with the program, so they are likely to be much more interested in being involved than you might think. Be bold about delegating work to those who might benefit themselves. This is a great way to achieve understanding and commitment from people who you may later rely upon for process implementation. Share your experiences with your friends and family.
Making it relevant
The key to successful learning is to make it relevant to your own individual circumstances. At all times you should be trying to make bridges between the content of the program and your own situation. Whether you achieve this through quiet reflection or through interactive discussion with your colleagues, client partners or your family, remember that it is the most important and rewarding aspect of translating your studies into real self-improvement. You should be clear about how you want the program to benefit you. This involves setting clear study objectives in relation to the content of the course in terms of understanding, concepts, completing research or reviewing activities and relating the content of the modules to your own situation. Your objectives may understandably change as you work through the program, in which case you should enter the revised objectives on your study plan so that you have a permanent reminder of what you are trying to achieve, when and why.
Distance-learning check-list
Prepare your study environment, your study tools and rules.
Undertake detailed self-assessment in terms of your ability as a learner.
Create a format for your study plan.
Consider your study objectives and tasks.
Create a study forecast.
Assess your study performance.
Re-evaluate your study forecast.
Be consistent when managing your study plan.
Use your Appleton Greene Certified Learning Provider (CLP) for tutorial support.
Make sure you keep in touch with those around you.
Tutorial Support
Programs
Appleton Greene uses standard and bespoke corporate training programs as vessels to transfer business process improvement knowledge into the heart of our clients’ organizations. Each individual program focuses upon the implementation of a specific business process, which enables clients to easily quantify their return on investment. There are hundreds of established Appleton Greene corporate training products now available to clients within customer services, e-business, finance, globalization, human resources, information technology, legal, management, marketing and production. It does not matter whether a client’s employees are located within one office, or an unlimited number of international offices, we can still bring them together to learn and implement specific business processes collectively. Our approach to global localization enables us to provide clients with a truly international service with that all important personal touch. Appleton Greene corporate training programs can be provided virtually or locally and they are all unique in that they individually focus upon a specific business function. They are implemented over a sustainable period of time and professional support is consistently provided by qualified learning providers and specialist consultants.
Support available
You will have a designated Certified Learning Provider (CLP) and an Accredited Consultant and we encourage you to communicate with them as much as possible. In all cases tutorial support is provided online because we can then keep a record of all communications to ensure that tutorial support remains consistent. You would also be forwarding your work to the tutorial support unit for evaluation and assessment. You will receive individual feedback on all of the work that you undertake on a one-to-one basis, together with specific recommendations for anything that may need to be changed in order to achieve a pass with merit or a pass with distinction and you then have as many opportunities as you may need to re-submit project studies until they meet with the required standard. Consequently the only reason that you should really fail (CLP) is if you do not do the work. It makes no difference to us whether a student takes 12 months or 18 months to complete the program, what matters is that in all cases the same quality standard will have been achieved.
Support Process
Please forward all of your future emails to the designated (CLP) Tutorial Support Unit email address that has been provided and please do not duplicate or copy your emails to other AGC email accounts as this will just cause unnecessary administration. Please note that emails are always answered as quickly as possible but you will need to allow a period of up to 20 business days for responses to general tutorial support emails during busy periods, because emails are answered strictly within the order in which they are received. You will also need to allow a period of up to 30 business days for the evaluation and assessment of project studies. This does not include weekends or public holidays. Please therefore kindly allow for this within your time planning. All communications are managed online via email because it enables tutorial service support managers to review other communications which have been received before responding and it ensures that there is a copy of all communications retained on file for future reference. All communications will be stored within your personal (CLP) study file here at Appleton Greene throughout your designated study period. If you need any assistance or clarification at any time, please do not hesitate to contact us by forwarding an email and remember that we are here to help. If you have any questions, please list and number your questions succinctly and you can then be sure of receiving specific answers to each and every query.
Time Management
It takes approximately 1 Year to complete the Transformational Leadership corporate training program, incorporating 12 x 6-hour monthly workshops. Each student will also need to contribute approximately 4 hours per week over 1 Year of their personal time. Students can study from home or work at their own pace and are responsible for managing their own study plan. There are no formal examinations and students are evaluated and assessed based upon their project study submissions, together with the quality of their internal analysis and supporting documents. They can contribute more time towards study when they have the time to do so and can contribute less time when they are busy. All students tend to be in full time employment while studying and the Transformational Leadership program is purposely designed to accommodate this, so there is plenty of flexibility in terms of time management. It makes no difference to us at Appleton Greene, whether individuals take 12-18 months to complete this program. What matters is that in all cases the same standard of quality will have been achieved with the standard and bespoke programs that have been developed.
Distance Learning Guide
The distance learning guide should be your first port of call when starting your training program. It will help you when you are planning how and when to study, how to create the right environment and how to establish the right frame of mind. If you can lay the foundations properly during the planning stage, then it will contribute to your enjoyment and productivity while training later. The guide helps to change your lifestyle in order to accommodate time for study and to cultivate good study habits. It helps you to chart your progress so that you can measure your performance and achieve your goals. It explains the tools that you will need for study and how to make them work. It also explains how to translate academic theory into practical reality. Spend some time now working through your distance learning guide and make sure that you have firm foundations in place so that you can make the most of your distance learning program. There is no requirement for you to attend training workshops or classes at Appleton Greene offices. The entire program is undertaken online, program course manuals and project studies are administered via the Appleton Greene web site and via email, so you are able to study at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home or office as long as you have a computer and access to the internet.
How To Study
The how to study guide provides students with a clear understanding of the Appleton Greene facilitation via distance learning training methods and enables students to obtain a clear overview of the training program content. It enables students to understand the step-by-step training methods used by Appleton Greene and how course manuals are integrated with project studies. It explains the research and development that is required and the need to provide evidence and references to support your statements. It also enables students to understand precisely what will be required of them in order to achieve a pass with merit and a pass with distinction for individual project studies and provides useful guidance on how to be innovative and creative when developing your Unique Program Proposition (UPP).
Tutorial Support
Tutorial support for the Appleton Greene Transformational Leadership corporate training program is provided online either through the Appleton Greene Client Support Portal (CSP), or via email. All tutorial support requests are facilitated by a designated Program Administration Manager (PAM). They are responsible for deciding which professor or tutor is the most appropriate option relating to the support required and then the tutorial support request is forwarded onto them. Once the professor or tutor has completed the tutorial support request and answered any questions that have been asked, this communication is then returned to the student via email by the designated Program Administration Manager (PAM). This enables all tutorial support, between students, professors and tutors, to be facilitated by the designated Program Administration Manager (PAM) efficiently and securely through the email account. You will therefore need to allow a period of up to 20 business days for responses to general support queries and up to 30 business days for the evaluation and assessment of project studies, because all tutorial support requests are answered strictly within the order in which they are received. This does not include weekends or public holidays. Consequently you need to put some thought into the management of your tutorial support procedure in order to ensure that your study plan is feasible and to obtain the maximum possible benefit from tutorial support during your period of study. Please retain copies of your tutorial support emails for future reference. Please ensure that ALL of your tutorial support emails are set out using the format as suggested within your guide to tutorial support. Your tutorial support emails need to be referenced clearly to the specific part of the course manual or project study which you are working on at any given time. You also need to list and number any questions that you would like to ask, up to a maximum of five questions within each tutorial support email. Remember the more specific you can be with your questions the more specific your answers will be too and this will help you to avoid any unnecessary misunderstanding, misinterpretation, or duplication. The guide to tutorial support is intended to help you to understand how and when to use support in order to ensure that you get the most out of your training program. Appleton Greene training programs are designed to enable you to do things for yourself. They provide you with a structure or a framework and we use tutorial support to facilitate students while they practically implement what they learn. In other words, we are enabling students to do things for themselves. The benefits of distance learning via facilitation are considerable and are much more sustainable in the long-term than traditional short-term knowledge sharing programs. Consequently you should learn how and when to use tutorial support so that you can maximize the benefits from your learning experience with Appleton Greene. This guide describes the purpose of each training function and how to use them and how to use tutorial support in relation to each aspect of the training program. It also provides useful tips and guidance with regard to best practice.
Tutorial Support Tips
Students are often unsure about how and when to use tutorial support with Appleton Greene. This Tip List will help you to understand more about how to achieve the most from using tutorial support. Refer to it regularly to ensure that you are continuing to use the service properly. Tutorial support is critical to the success of your training experience, but it is important to understand when and how to use it in order to maximize the benefit that you receive. It is no coincidence that those students who succeed are those that learn how to be positive, proactive and productive when using tutorial support.
Be positive and friendly with your tutorial support emails
Remember that if you forward an email to the tutorial support unit, you are dealing with real people. “Do unto others as you would expect others to do unto you”. If you are positive, complimentary and generally friendly in your emails, you will generate a similar response in return. This will be more enjoyable, productive and rewarding for you in the long-term.
Think about the impression that you want to create
Every time that you communicate, you create an impression, which can be either positive or negative, so put some thought into the impression that you want to create. Remember that copies of all tutorial support emails are stored electronically and tutors will always refer to prior correspondence before responding to any current emails. Over a period of time, a general opinion will be arrived at in relation to your character, attitude and ability. Try to manage your own frustrations, mood swings and temperament professionally, without involving the tutorial support team. Demonstrating frustration or a lack of patience is a weakness and will be interpreted as such. The good thing about communicating in writing, is that you will have the time to consider your content carefully, you can review it and proof-read it before sending your email to Appleton Greene and this should help you to communicate more professionally, consistently and to avoid any unnecessary knee-jerk reactions to individual situations as and when they may arise. Please also remember that the CLP Tutorial Support Unit will not just be responsible for evaluating and assessing the quality of your work, they will also be responsible for providing recommendations to other learning providers and to client contacts within the Appleton Greene global client network, so do be in control of your own emotions and try to create a good impression.
Remember that quality is preferred to quantity
Please remember that when you send an email to the tutorial support team, you are not using Twitter or Text Messaging. Try not to forward an email every time that you have a thought. This will not prove to be productive either for you or for the tutorial support team. Take time to prepare your communications properly, as if you were writing a professional letter to a business colleague and make a list of queries that you are likely to have and then incorporate them within one email, say once every month, so that the tutorial support team can understand more about context, application and your methodology for study. Get yourself into a consistent routine with your tutorial support requests and use the tutorial support template provided with ALL of your emails. The (CLP) Tutorial Support Unit will not spoon-feed you with information. They need to be able to evaluate and assess your tutorial support requests carefully and professionally.
Be specific about your questions in order to receive specific answers
Try not to write essays by thinking as you are writing tutorial support emails. The tutorial support unit can be unclear about what in fact you are asking, or what you are looking to achieve. Be specific about asking questions that you want answers to. Number your questions. You will then receive specific answers to each and every question. This is the main purpose of tutorial support via email.
Keep a record of your tutorial support emails
It is important that you keep a record of all tutorial support emails that are forwarded to you. You can then refer to them when necessary and it avoids any unnecessary duplication, misunderstanding, or misinterpretation.
Individual training workshops or telephone support
Please be advised that Appleton Greene does not provide separate or individual tutorial support meetings, workshops, or provide telephone support for individual students. Appleton Greene is an equal opportunities learning and service provider and we are therefore understandably bound to treat all students equally. We cannot therefore broker special financial or study arrangements with individual students regardless of the circumstances. All tutorial support is provided online and this enables Appleton Greene to keep a record of all communications between students, professors and tutors on file for future reference, in accordance with our quality management procedure and your terms and conditions of enrolment. All tutorial support is provided online via email because it enables us to have time to consider support content carefully, it ensures that you receive a considered and detailed response to your queries. You can number questions that you would like to ask, which relate to things that you do not understand or where clarification may be required. You can then be sure of receiving specific answers to each individual query. You will also then have a record of these communications and of all tutorial support, which has been provided to you. This makes tutorial support administration more productive by avoiding any unnecessary duplication, misunderstanding, or misinterpretation.
Tutorial Support Email Format
You should use this tutorial support format if you need to request clarification or assistance while studying with your training program. Please note that ALL of your tutorial support request emails should use the same format. You should therefore set up a standard email template, which you can then use as and when you need to. Emails that are forwarded to Appleton Greene, which do not use the following format, may be rejected and returned to you by the (CLP) Program Administration Manager. A detailed response will then be forwarded to you via email usually within 20 business days of receipt for general support queries and 30 business days for the evaluation and assessment of project studies. This does not include weekends or public holidays. Your tutorial support request, together with the corresponding TSU reply, will then be saved and stored within your electronic TSU file at Appleton Greene for future reference.
Subject line of your email
Please insert: Appleton Greene (CLP) Tutorial Support Request: (Your Full Name) (Date), within the subject line of your email.
Main body of your email
Please insert:
1. Appleton Greene Certified Learning Provider (CLP) Tutorial Support Request
2. Your Full Name
3. Date of TS request
4. Preferred email address
5. Backup email address
6. Course manual page name or number (reference)
7. Project study page name or number (reference)
Subject of enquiry
Please insert a maximum of 50 words (please be succinct)
Briefly outline the subject matter of your inquiry, or what your questions relate to.
Question 1
Maximum of 50 words (please be succinct)
Maximum of 50 words (please be succinct)
Question 3
Maximum of 50 words (please be succinct)
Question 4
Maximum of 50 words (please be succinct)
Question 5
Maximum of 50 words (please be succinct)
Please note that a maximum of 5 questions is permitted with each individual tutorial support request email.
Procedure
* List the questions that you want to ask first, then re-arrange them in order of priority. Make sure that you reference them, where necessary, to the course manuals or project studies.
* Make sure that you are specific about your questions and number them. Try to plan the content within your emails to make sure that it is relevant.
* Make sure that your tutorial support emails are set out correctly, using the Tutorial Support Email Format provided here.
* Save a copy of your email and incorporate the date sent after the subject title. Keep your tutorial support emails within the same file and in date order for easy reference.
* Allow up to 20 business days for a response to general tutorial support emails and up to 30 business days for the evaluation and assessment of project studies, because detailed individual responses will be made in all cases and tutorial support emails are answered strictly within the order in which they are received.
* Emails can and do get lost. So if you have not received a reply within the appropriate time, forward another copy or a reminder to the tutorial support unit to be sure that it has been received but do not forward reminders unless the appropriate time has elapsed.
* When you receive a reply, save it immediately featuring the date of receipt after the subject heading for easy reference. In most cases the tutorial support unit replies to your questions individually, so you will have a record of the questions that you asked as well as the answers offered. With project studies however, separate emails are usually forwarded by the tutorial support unit, so do keep a record of your own original emails as well.
* Remember to be positive and friendly in your emails. You are dealing with real people who will respond to the same things that you respond to.
* Try not to repeat questions that have already been asked in previous emails. If this happens the tutorial support unit will probably just refer you to the appropriate answers that have already been provided within previous emails.
* If you lose your tutorial support email records you can write to Appleton Greene to receive a copy of your tutorial support file, but a separate administration charge may be levied for this service.
How To Study
Your Certified Learning Provider (CLP) and Accredited Consultant can help you to plan a task list for getting started so that you can be clear about your direction and your priorities in relation to your training program. It is also a good way to introduce yourself to the tutorial support team.
Planning your study environment
Your study conditions are of great importance and will have a direct effect on how much you enjoy your training program. Consider how much space you will have, whether it is comfortable and private and whether you are likely to be disturbed. The study tools and facilities at your disposal are also important to the success of your distance-learning experience. Your tutorial support unit can help with useful tips and guidance, regardless of your starting position. It is important to get this right before you start working on your training program.
Planning your program objectives
It is important that you have a clear list of study objectives, in order of priority, before you start working on your training program. Your tutorial support unit can offer assistance here to ensure that your study objectives have been afforded due consideration and priority.
Planning how and when to study
Distance-learners are freed from the necessity of attending regular classes, since they can study in their own way, at their own pace and for their own purposes. This approach is designed to let you study efficiently away from the traditional classroom environment. It is important however, that you plan how and when to study, so that you are making the most of your natural attributes, strengths and opportunities. Your tutorial support unit can offer assistance and useful tips to ensure that you are playing to your strengths.
Planning your study tasks
You should have a clear understanding of the study tasks that you should be undertaking and the priority associated with each task. These tasks should also be integrated with your program objectives. The distance learning guide and the guide to tutorial support for students should help you here, but if you need any clarification or assistance, please contact your tutorial support unit.
Planning your time
You will need to allocate specific times during your calendar when you intend to study if you are to have a realistic chance of completing your program on time. You are responsible for planning and managing your own study time, so it is important that you are successful with this. Your tutorial support unit can help you with this if your time plan is not working.
Keeping in touch
Consistency is the key here. If you communicate too frequently in short bursts, or too infrequently with no pattern, then your management ability with your studies will be questioned, both by you and by your tutorial support unit. It is obvious when a student is in control and when one is not and this will depend how able you are at sticking with your study plan. Inconsistency invariably leads to in-completion.
Charting your progress
Your tutorial support team can help you to chart your own study progress. Refer to your distance learning guide for further details.
Making it work
To succeed, all that you will need to do is apply yourself to undertaking your training program and interpreting it correctly. Success or failure lies in your hands and your hands alone, so be sure that you have a strategy for making it work. Your Certified Learning Provider (CLP) and Accredited Consultant can guide you through the process of program planning, development and implementation.
Reading methods
Interpretation is often unique to the individual but it can be improved and even quantified by implementing consistent interpretation methods. Interpretation can be affected by outside interference such as family members, TV, or the Internet, or simply by other thoughts which are demanding priority in our minds. One thing that can improve our productivity is using recognized reading methods. This helps us to focus and to be more structured when reading information for reasons of importance, rather than relaxation.
Speed reading
When reading through course manuals for the first time, subconsciously set your reading speed to be just fast enough that you cannot dwell on individual words or tables. With practice, you should be able to read an A4 sheet of paper in one minute. You will not achieve much in the way of a detailed understanding, but your brain will retain a useful overview. This overview will be important later on and will enable you to keep individual issues in perspective with a more generic picture because speed reading appeals to the memory part of the brain. Do not worry about what you do or do not remember at this stage.
Content reading
Once you have speed read everything, you can then start work in earnest. You now need to read a particular section of your course manual thoroughly, by making detailed notes while you read. This process is called Content Reading and it will help to consolidate your understanding and interpretation of the information that has been provided.
Making structured notes on the course manuals
When you are content reading, you should be making detailed notes, which are both structured and informative. Make these notes in a MS Word document on your computer, because you can then amend and update these as and when you deem it to be necessary. List your notes under three headings: 1. Interpretation – 2. Questions – 3. Tasks. The purpose of the 1st section is to clarify your interpretation by writing it down. The purpose of the 2nd section is to list any questions that the issue raises for you. The purpose of the 3rd section is to list any tasks that you should undertake as a result. Anyone who has graduated with a business-related degree should already be familiar with this process.
Organizing structured notes separately
You should then transfer your notes to a separate study notebook, preferably one that enables easy referencing, such as a MS Word Document, a MS Excel Spreadsheet, a MS Access Database, or a personal organizer on your cell phone. Transferring your notes allows you to have the opportunity of cross-checking and verifying them, which assists considerably with understanding and interpretation. You will also find that the better you are at doing this, the more chance you will have of ensuring that you achieve your study objectives.
Question your understanding
Do challenge your understanding. Explain things to yourself in your own words by writing things down.
Clarifying your understanding
If you are at all unsure, forward an email to your tutorial support unit and they will help to clarify your understanding.
Question your interpretation
Do challenge your interpretation. Qualify your interpretation by writing it down.
Clarifying your interpretation
If you are at all unsure, forward an email to your tutorial support unit and they will help to clarify your interpretation.
Qualification Requirements
The student will need to successfully complete the project study and all of the exercises relating to the Transformational Leadership corporate training program, achieving a pass with merit or distinction in each case, in order to qualify as an Accredited Transformational Leadership Specialist (APTS). All monthly workshops need to be tried and tested within your company. These project studies can be completed in your own time and at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home or office. There are no formal examinations, assessment is based upon the successful completion of the project studies. They are called project studies because, unlike case studies, these projects are not theoretical, they incorporate real program processes that need to be properly researched and developed. The project studies assist us in measuring your understanding and interpretation of the training program and enable us to assess qualification merits. All of the project studies are based entirely upon the content within the training program and they enable you to integrate what you have learnt into your corporate training practice.
Transformational Leadership – Grading Contribution
Project Study – Grading Contribution
Customer Service – 10%
E-business – 05%
Finance – 10%
Globalization – 10%
Human Resources – 10%
Information Technology – 10%
Legal – 05%
Management – 10%
Marketing – 10%
Production – 10%
Education – 05%
Logistics – 05%
TOTAL GRADING – 100%
Qualification grades
A mark of 90% = Pass with Distinction.
A mark of 75% = Pass with Merit.
A mark of less than 75% = Fail.
If you fail to achieve a mark of 75% with a project study, you will receive detailed feedback from the Certified Learning Provider (CLP) and/or Accredited Consultant, together with a list of tasks which you will need to complete, in order to ensure that your project study meets with the minimum quality standard that is required by Appleton Greene. You can then re-submit your project study for further evaluation and assessment. Indeed you can re-submit as many drafts of your project studies as you need to, until such a time as they eventually meet with the required standard by Appleton Greene, so you need not worry about this, it is all part of the learning process.
When marking project studies, Appleton Greene is looking for sufficient evidence of the following:
Pass with merit
A satisfactory level of program understanding
A satisfactory level of program interpretation
A satisfactory level of project study content presentation
A satisfactory level of Unique Program Proposition (UPP) quality
A satisfactory level of the practical integration of academic theory
Pass with distinction
An exceptional level of program understanding
An exceptional level of program interpretation
An exceptional level of project study content presentation
An exceptional level of Unique Program Proposition (UPP) quality
An exceptional level of the practical integration of academic theory
Preliminary Analysis
Online Article
By Guzman et al,
Procedia Manufacturing,
2020.
“Characteristics and Skills of Leadership in the Context of Industry 4.0
Abstract
Leadership is essential in organizations to successfully promote a culture of innovation. Consequently, leaders assume a crucial role in the paradigm shift towards Industry 4.0. This paper aims to present key leadership characteristics and skills in the context of Industry 4.0. It was based mainly on a literature review about leadership and Industry 4.0. This work results in 10 leadership characteristics found for industry 4.0 and their relationship with 4 leadership skills groups: cognitive skills, interpersonal skills, business skills, and strategic skills. The organizations might consider these skills as requirements for the leaders in the transition process towards Industry 4.0.
Introduction
Industry 4.0 (I4.0) is the term to describe the current movement toward a highly connected and automated manufacturing system, or Smart Factory [1]. In a smart factory, human, machines, and resources involved in manufacturing communicate with each other as naturally as in a social network [2]. The smart-manufacturing application depends on real-time data acquisition obtained from sensors and the inclusion of connectivity in discrete industrial components [3]. In addition, the investments related to I4.0 implantation, digital technologies, like sensors, connectivity devices, software and applications as manufacturing execution system (MES) [4] play a particularly important role.”
If you would like to know more, Click Here
Online Article
By L Spears,
The Journal of Virtues & Leadership,
2010.
“Character and Servant Leadership: Ten Characteristics of Effective, Caring Leaders
We are experiencing a rapid shift in many businesses and not-for-profit organizations— away from the more traditional autocratic and hierarchical models of leadership and toward servant leadership as a way of being in relationship with others. Servant leadership seeks to involve others in decision making, is strongly based in ethical and caring behavior, and enhances the growth of workers while improving the caring and quality of organizational life. This article examines a set of ten characteristics of the servant leader that are of critical importance. They are: listening, empathy, healing, awareness, persuasion, conceptualization, foresight, stewardship, commitment to the growth of people, and building community. This piece was originally published in 2000 in Volume 8, Issue 3 of Concepts and Connections, the newsletter of the National Clearinghouse for Leadership Programs. It is reprinted here with permission.
Our fundamental understanding of character has much to do with the essential traits exhibited by a person. In recent years there has been a growing interest in the nature of character and character education, based upon a belief that positive character traits can be both taught and learned. Many people today are familiar with the Character Counts!(sm) program of the Josephson Institute of Ethics. That program has been adopted by a number of schools and communities nationwide and teaches core values which they call “Six Pillars of Character.” Those six particular character values are: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship.”
If you would like to know more, Click Here
Online Article
By Perrykkad et al,
Psychology of Consciousness: Theory, Research, and Practice,
2023.
“Beliefs about action efficacy mediate the relationship between self-concept clarity and self-reported compassionate action.
Abstract
By definition, compassionate actions aim to relieve suffering. Perhaps, then, one barrier to compassion is a general lack of belief in the efficacy of one’s actions. Further, beliefs of inefficacy may relate to how coherently and stably one represents themselves; and action beliefs may mediate the recently identified correlation between self-concept clarity and helping behaviors. Using a preregistered design in two online samples totaling 484 participants, we investigate associations between self-reported self-concept clarity, action beliefs, and compassionate action (for self and others). As an objective measure of compassionate behavior, participants are given an opportunity to donate to charity. We control for fears of compassion as a commonly recognized barrier to compassionate action. Our data provide decisive evidence for moderate to large correlations between self-concept clarity, general sense of agency, self-efficacy, and self-reported compassionate action. In both samples, the action belief variables mediate the effect of self-concept clarity on self-reported compassion. Surprisingly, none of the measures were predictive of donation in either sample. Our data suggest that beliefs about action efficacy have a large impact on compassionate action as subjectively assessed and mediate the impact that self-concept clarity has on self-reported helping behaviors. However, these findings do not generalize to all helping behaviors, such as decisions about donating to a particular charity. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)”
If you would like to know more, Click Here
Online Article
By Kempster, Jackson & Conroy
Sage Journals,
Aug, 2011.
“Leadership as purpose: Exploring the role of purpose in leadership practice
Abstract
This article initiates a long overdue discussion regarding purpose within leadership, an integral yet often taken-for-granted and subsumed function of leadership. Specifically, the article problematicizes the manifestation of purpose in everyday organizational leadership practices through the work of the moral philosopher Alasdair MacIntyre. The article argues that purpose requires greater attention if it is to become manifest in both the corporate and the societal orientations of leaders in organizations. In support of this argument we identify the implications of singularly focusing upon corporate purpose to the exclusion of societal purpose against the backdrop of the credit crunch aftermath. The article develops a theoretical argument that, when conceptualized as a process of sensemaking, leadership can provide an opportunity for notions of societal purpose to come to the fore in countervailing balance with corporate purposes. We conclude by suggesting a research agenda centred on further explicating and developing the idea of leadership as purpose.”
If you would like to know more, Click Here
Course Manuals 1-12
Course Manual 1: Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
Character plays a pivotal role in living a purposeful life and influencing leadership outcomes. It’s crucial to understand that character, unlike inherent personality traits, is about making disciplined choices and acting with conviction. In this module, we outline ten essential character traits for becoming a Transformational Leader. Instead of providing an assessment, we encourage introspection on these traits and reflection on personal development required to embody them.
1. Forgiveness
“Forgiveness is not an occasional act; it is a permanent attitude.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Forgiveness is defined as giving up resentment or bitterness toward someone or something.
Unforgiveness hinders your ability to live a successful and purposeful life. Unforgiveness is toxic to your body, mind, and soul. Just like fear, it hinders your ability to think clearly, and it is proven to negatively affect our immune system, stress levels, mental health, and emotional health, but not the offender’s.
I was listening to a speaker once, and he put it this way.
The greatest benefit of forgiveness goes to the person giving it—not the person receiving it. The definition states to “give up,” which means to release.
If you don’t have a permanent attitude of forgiveness, your brain cells and physical system become very quickly clogged with the toxic waste from these damaging thoughts and feelings.
In Quantum Physics, the technical term of cause and effect of unforgiveness is called entanglement. What this means is that if we are in a state of unforgiveness, we are continuing to allow the offender to affect us, regardless of their physical location. I know this might be difficult to comprehend, but in Quantum Physics, there is no time and space. By not forgiving, you will never be free of the negative trauma linked to a specific event. Negative effects have been proven to increase beyond the original impact as the “unforgiver” constantly thinks about it and builds additional toxic thoughts in his or her brain and body.
So what can you do about it?
To fully embrace forgiveness, three concepts must be acknowledged and accepted.
1. Not forgiving can harm the individual harboring resentment more than the original offender. According to Quantum Physics, unreleased negative energy, such as bitterness, can compound over time, often deteriorating one’s health and well-being. Holding onto anger and unforgiveness gives undue power to the offender, allowing them to control the aggrieved indirectly. Some even cling to their bitterness, using it as an excuse for their behavior, avoiding taking responsibility for their actions. For others, the very idea of forgiveness is so alien that they cannot fathom it. Ultimately, the decision not to forgive might be more damaging than the initial offense itself.
2. Forgiveness doesn’t equate to condoning or approving of harmful actions. For instance, a daughter mistakenly believed that forgiving her abusive father would mean his actions were acceptable, leading her to harbor bitterness that impacted her own family. Many might not realize that forgiveness is about choosing to release negative emotions and regain control over one’s life. In our marriage counseling sessions, couples found breakthroughs when they understood forgiveness wasn’t about forgetting but releasing. Unforgiveness can even have health implications; a study showed that the stress from divorce, intensified by bitterness, elevated women’s heart attack risks by 24%.
3. Forgiving oneself is crucial, especially when burdened with misplaced guilt. For instance, a friend, consumed by unfounded self-blame after her son’s tragic car accident, withdrew from life, becoming a mere shadow of herself. She imprisoned herself in unforgiveness, letting it erode her spirit as though she had died alongside her son. Similar to how a single drop of cyanide can poison a barrel of water, unforgiveness can poison our lives. The challenge isn’t about partial forgiveness but completely letting go, even when faced with profound pain or injustice.
You are correct in that I don’t know your story, but that does not change the fact that we must all forgive, no matter what, if we want to live and lead On Purpose.
2. Integrity
Integrity takes many forms. Do we boast about accomplishments we have not achieved? Early in my career, I was very self-conscious about being accepted. One of my clients asked about my education, and I responded that I had a business degree, when, in fact, I had a technologist diploma. I knew immediately that I was not acting with integrity, and followed up with the admission of my misrepresentation. It was embarrassing, humbling, and a lesson about the importance of integrity.
Acting without integrity can erode the foundation of our personal and professional lives, as seen in high-profile cases like Lance Armstrong and Bernie Madoff. Key aspects of integrity include always telling the truth, as falsehoods can cause emotional harm and long-term consequences. It’s essential to provide honest feedback, even if uncomfortable, as this is crucial for leadership roles. Keeping promises is another aspect of integrity; reliability in personal and professional commitments matters. Lastly, it’s vital to commit to activities out of genuine passion, not just obligation or peer pressure. Embracing authenticity allows for wise decision-making and alignment with one’s true self.
3. Gratitude and Thankfulness
“Be thankful for the least gift, so shalt thou be meant to receive greater.” – Thomas à Kempis
Grateful: Appreciative of benefits received; expressing gratitude; affording pleasure or contentment; pleasing by reason of comfort supplied or discomfort alleviated
Thankful: Conscious of benefit received; expressive of thanks; well pleased; kindly or grateful thoughts; an expression of gratitude
Whatever our condition or circumstances, we can all have a grateful and thankful heart!
Case Study
Imagine you have two young children:
• One of these children is always thankful and grateful for whatever you buy or do for him. He acknowledges, and verbally thanks you for, all these activities, events, things, or actions. He rarely—if ever—complains.
• Your second child is not thankful or grateful, no matter what you do or provide for him. When you do something for him, he asks you why his friends were not invited. He just whines about everything and anything that you do. He is rarely—if ever—grateful.
Given the character of both, which child would you prefer to indulge, give more to, or do more for—the thankful or the ungrateful one? Of course, we would enjoy giving to the grateful child. Why? Because he has a thankful and appreciative heart! Who wants to give to someone who will whine at (and negate) all our efforts?
An ungrateful child often ends up repelling the very things he desires, while a grateful one attracts more blessings. Self-reflection is essential: are you someone who constantly focuses on what’s missing, or do you appreciate what you have? This mindset determines how we navigate our lives. Focusing on lack and constantly complaining can repel those around us, especially individuals we’d want in our circle. By concentrating on what we’re missing, we often overlook potential opportunities. A study by Scott Barry Kaufman from the University of Pennsylvania found that of various character strengths, gratitude had the most significant impact on well-being. Gratitude is a true measure of our character, testing our ability to remain thankful despite our circumstances.
4. Worrying What Will Others Say or Think About Me?
Depending on your Personal Style, some of you have a greater orientation to worrying about what others think or say about you than others do. However, regardless of our background, style, etc., being a people pleaser and politically correct will not be character traits that help you fulfill your purpose or help you to be a Transformational Leader.
Where do you fall on the continuum? Do you constantly seek approval from others, or do you not bother worrying about what others think or say about you?
There are so many examples of very successful individuals who were told they would never make it.
Case Study
One high school student was cut from his Grade 11 basketball team and told by the coach that he would never make the high school basketball team. This individual took it upon himself to prove him wrong and practice every day for the next year to the point where he was able to make his senior high school team. That individual was Michael Jordan, who went on to win six NBA championships and five NBA MVP awards. What if he had listened and accepted the high school coach’s recommendation to quit? We would have missed out on one of the greatest players to ever participate in the sport of basketball.
Whose opinions should matter most to you? Yours. In our social media age, it’s easy to get caught in a cycle of negative criticism. Engaging in petty disputes or giving too much weight to others’ opinions can detract from our authenticity. While feedback can be valuable, it shouldn’t dictate our personal or professional paths. Consistently adapting to others’ views means we lack a firm stance. Although being respected is nice, our primary goal should be authenticity. Many people live lives shaped by others’ expectations instead of their own values and desires. Dan Shechtman, for example, faced extensive criticism for his groundbreaking work on quasicrystals. Despite being ostracized, he persisted and eventually won a Nobel Prize. If he had succumbed to naysayers, his discovery would have remained hidden. In essence, when you stand out or make a difference, critics will emerge. It’s essential to remain true to oneself and one’s convictions.
5. Love of Learning
Scott Barry Kaufman’s study at the University of Pennsylvania revealed that after gratitude, the love of learning was the next significant character strength contributing to well-being. Although lifelong learning is essential in the modern age, it’s the genuine love for it, not merely its necessity, that’s vital. As self-aware beings, humans have the unique ability to shape their realities. Embracing learning is integral to our identity, fulfillment, and realizing potential. Studies have shown that continuous learning, beyond passive activities like watching TV, can even increase longevity and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. While our life’s core purpose remains consistent, the ways we express and pursue it continually evolve. Therefore, to live a purposeful life, one must genuinely love and continuously engage in learning.
6. Avoiding Distractions
By avoiding distractions, I’m mostly referring to media addiction. Technically, “media addiction” is not a character trait, but rather an anti-character trait or habit of not becoming addicted to media.
Are you amusing yourself to death?
With mobile devices everywhere and anywhere, the stats on our addiction to media has become staggering. In North America, the average kid who is flunking high school is spending 55 hours—that’s right, 55—per week on non-academic media, such as video games, YouTube, social media, etc. In China, a new study suggests that there are now 400 million-plus people who have video or media addictions. This is a disaster. Media addiction is now outranking all other addictions combined, such as alcohol, gambling, smoking, drugs, etc.
The reality is that unless your engagement in media is helping you grow or directly supporting someone else, there will be little or no meaning in your addiction. If you have a lot of media in your life, you might have an amusing life, but it will be an empty one. I mentioned that we canceled our TV subscription years ago. After the first week, we adjusted to the extra two to five hours a day we gained as a family instead of watching TV. We were now participants in our life, not observers.
Start today tracking your media usage. How many hours a day do you spend on non-professional media that is not really helping anyone but merely amusing yourself? And if you have children, start tracking their usage. What is their consumption levels? If you acknowledge that your/their consumption is high, what are you going to do about it? Take action to shift this habit now.
7. Humor
Humor is the ability to bring smiles to other people’s faces and see the lighter side of life. One of the benefits of individuals who have a sense of humor is that they are less uptight and stressed. Humor improves the immune system, increases wellness, and reduces stress.
In the classic book Anatomy of an Illness, author Norman Cousins started the revolution in patients working with their doctors and using humor to boost their bodies’ capacity for healing. When Cousins himself was diagnosed with a crippling and irreversible disease, he forged an unusual collaboration with his physician, and together, they were able to beat the odds. The doctor’s genius was in helping his patient use his own powers: laughter, courage, and tenacity.
8. Persistence
Persistence perfects our faith and hope. In our impatient, instant-gratification society, the character quality of persistence is quickly forgotten. Persistence is the birthplace of our success. Just because someone is living On Purpose and a Transformational Leader does not mean that life is easy with no defeats, failures, or roadblocks. Persistence is required for many of us to realize our purpose and calling. Depending on our age, our memory of examples of where persistence paid off are frequent and plentiful.
• Thomas Edison had 1000+ attempts before he invented the light bulb.
• Abraham Lincoln failed 8 times over a period of nearly 30 years before being elected President of the United States.
• Oprah was demoted from her job as news anchor because she was told she was “not fit for television.”
• Walt Disney, as a young cartoonist, faced many rejections from newspaper editors, who said he had no talent. He was even fired by someone who told him he lacked imagination and original ideas. One day, a minister at a church hired him to draw some cartoons. Disney was working out of a small, mouse-infested shed near the church. After seeing a small mouse, he was inspired. That was the beginning of Mickey Mouse.
• Colonel Sanders, at age 65, with a beat-up car and a $100 check from Social Security, realized he had to do something. He remembered his mother’s recipe for chicken, and went out selling. How many doors did he have to knock on before he got his first order? It is estimated that he had knocked on more than 1000 doors before he got his first order—all this at age 65!
The character strength of persistence is linked to the content mentioned in the Mindset chapter on the attributes of being optimistic. Optimism contributes to the ability to continue, regardless of the conditions that we face.
The research from Florida State University Professor Anders Ericsson, confirmed that it takes approximately 10,000 hours of engaging a profession or skill to achieve mastery. At 20 hours a week, that timeline is 10 years! This is true of skilled capable leaders. It takes time develop the skills of Transformational Leader.
Do you have a mindset of committing to the long haul or quitting too soon—missing out on the experience of mastery? Answering this question becomes part of your Transformational Leadership journey.
Will you stay the course and dedicate the hours to realizing a goal or objective? Or are you on the wrong course that, without passion accompanying your character quality of persistence, will never allow you to experience fulfillment?
Perseverance means that we finish what we start, in spite of obstacles taking pleasure (fulfillment) in completing tasks.
9. Love
In Mort Fertel’s book Marriage Fitness, he asserts that there is only one ingredient required to repair any broken relationship: Love. In today’s self-centered, narcissistic society, we make it about “me” rather than “we.” Fertel suggests that many couples are trying to change each other, rather than accepting and loving each other.
“Love is like a golden lens through which we experience all of life.”–Mort Fertel
Love is a choice that, when practiced, becomes a core character strength. At its essence, love is our fundamental nature. Neurological research shows that unconditional love enhances our potential and purpose. However, due to past hurts, many choose to shield their hearts, with the real barrier being themselves. While love exposes us to potential hurt, it is also the pinnacle of human bravery.
There are countless research studies that affirm the benefits of love.
WebMD summarized some of these benefits as the following:
• Fewer doctor visits
• Improves overall wellness
• Less depression
• Lower blood pressure
• Better stress management
• Less anxiety
• Better pain control
• Faster healing
• Longer life
• Happier life
10. The Power of Association
The Late Kenneth Robinson, author of the The Element: How Finding Your Passion Changes Everything, calls it finding your tribe—others in your network and mentors, or those with whom you connect and with whom you have a deep affinity. For you it even could be the same individuals taking this leadership course together.
Personal Associations
Research indicates that our lives often mirror the traits of our five closest friends, influencing our aspirations, leadership attitudes, fitness, net worth, and success. Surrounding oneself with individuals who don’t align with our core values can hinder personal growth. To further personal development, it’s beneficial to associate with mentors or those ahead of our own growth curve. This isn’t about deeming others as inferior but about aligning with those who support our dreams, goals, and values.
Exercise 3.1
Course Manual 2: Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
Before we get you started on your personal Belief, Identity and Purpose exercises it is important that you have an understanding of some of the Transformational Leader Beliefs and Strategies. To help you understand what we believe in terms of personal principles, truth, strategies and even myths, we have outlined them in this module. Use this information as a reference as you complete your personal Beliefs and Purpose exercises.
These strategies and beliefs form the framework for successfully implementing Transformational Leadership both personally and with others.
The Myth of Motivation
We naturally engage in activities we enjoy, eliminating the need for external motivation. If we constantly require motivation, it’s crucial to question the purpose of that activity. While I can offer encouragement and guidance, taking action remains your responsibility. There are tasks we might not enjoy but are necessary. However, if daily motivation is a struggle, it suggests a deeper misalignment with our purpose that needs addressing.
Interests and passions are not burdens; they energize us.
Change of Form—Not Content
Our interests may change their form and shape throughout our life, but their substance does not change. Interests nourish us and help us survive difficult times. We are empowered by our interests—whatever form they may take.
Case Study
Special Note: We acknowledge that, in some cases, individuals have traumatic events in their lives that change their ability to do what they enjoy doing—such as workplace accidents and injuries. Purpose and passions can have many different layers, so in these situations, individuals can embrace something that is a secondary interest. For example, recently, I attended our local airshow. During one of the performances, we learned that the pilot was a paraplegic. He had injured himself during a hang-gliding accident, but so loved flying that he figured out a way to fly, regardless of his unfortunate disability.
Clues
There are innumerable clues to your purpose. They are everywhere. Learn to recognize them. They all radiate a common quality—they make you feel fulfilled inside. It could be an experience with a person, a place, or a project. It could be a feeling you receive through your senses. Whatever it is or who is involved, nourishment comes back to you. You light up and feel a sense of well-being. You need to learn to follow your clues. We will outline several activities in the purpose modules through which you will document these clues to assist you in identifying your true calling.
One of the number-one trends in coaching today is teaching individuals the skill of mindfulness. The busyness of life and all the distractions can lead us to avoid paying attention. Learn to be quiet and reflective so you can be in touch with your deepest feelings and thoughts to catch the clues rather than being clueless.
The Myth of Mutual Exclusiveness
This is the question: Can we have it all? The answer is Yes. We must learn to reject the concept that to have one thing, we must give up another.
Myth example: To be successful at work means no family life or health. On the contrary, having it all is a natural consequence of embracing a balanced lifestyle. Truly fulfilled individuals find ways to have it all. But remember that “having it all” is defined by each of us independently—not by others.
True balance, by definition, is, in fact, “having it all.” But since you define what having it all means, what that looks like or how it should be manifested in your life will be unique to you. As outlined in the Values chapter, we must make values-based decisions, rather than situation-based decisions. Once you know what you want in all the areas of your life, then you can prioritize your life to reflect those activities and actions aligned with your purpose and calling.
Don’t let anyone tell you that if you chose one thing, it means you must abandon something else.
An Idea Precedes Money
Money never precedes an idea or action; it always follows. The idea of “Give me the money and I’ll get this done” is a myth. If we become organized around our ideas, money and resources will become attracted to them. One of the unfortunate trends in our society is narcissism and an entitlement complex. Sorry, but that’s not how life works.
Case Study
I was conducting an unscheduled performance review with one of my client’s employees. The reason cited was very poor performance, and she was on the verge of being fired. This employee was lazy, unproductive, and difficult to deal with—drama was always attached to anything she was asked to do. Her reason for her poor performance was that she deserved a raise and was working to “rule.” At first, I thought she was joking, but she was serious.
If you ever want to be successful, please never have a dysfunctional mindset like this employee. Keep reminding yourself of the order of things. Effort, work, and investment always precede success.
Beware of Negative Gurus
Be aware of “negative gurus,” which are well-meaning relatives, friends, and associates who impede the flow of our creativity by using negative terms and telling us how impractical or stupid our ideas are.
Sure, go ahead and get wise counsel, but if you are going to realize your full potential, you will have to shut out (or shut up) those who might try to thwart your efforts and calling. Your purpose journey is not always popular or supported by the people around you, so please guard your mind and heart.
Don’t Cop Out on Your Hang-ups and Excuses
We all have our hang-ups (issues) and we will have them, to some degree, for the rest of our lives. Rather than putting off what you really want to do, do it now—in spite of your “stuff.” Deal with your issues as you go along. In our holistic development model, we mention that emotional anchors both positively and negatively influence our personality, perspectives, responses, and, ultimately, our actions. We never want to use what has happened to us in the past as an excuse to not do what we are called to do in the present or future. “On Purpose” individuals don’t have pity parties, and neither should we.
If you have such “stuff,” then please do yourself and others a favor and deal with it. Take the steps, get the help, or just let it go. To help you, there are many great resources available online, so take the initiative and just do it!
Career Myth—Your Life and Work
Even though we talk about “Your Ideal Career,” career as an absolute is a myth. You can get a job, but a job is limited and usually ends at some point. A career is better defined as a lifestyle that fulfills you while providing you with the resources you require. When your income-producing activity is synchronized with a gratifying lifestyle, there is no “Thank God It’s Friday” followed by “Blue Monday.” Work is shifting from defined jobs or careers to expertise. Rather than a career, you should describe your expertise that meets the needs of a project, employer, or client.
We don’t have a separate work life and home life—we simply have a life. It is integrated. All the moving parts work together like a live orchestra to produce enjoyable music, just as all the moving parts in your life do. All of our life elements become fulfilling and enjoyable.
Attraction vs. Distraction
The Transformational Leadership process, and principally, your finished Life Wheel, will give you a written, graphic guide through which you can determine whether an idea, project, or person fits into your lifestyle and parallels the direction you want to go. If it attracts, consider it; if it does not fit in any way—if it’s a distraction—then strongly consider avoiding it. If something adds to your life, you will know it. If it neutralizes or subtracts, it’s best to let it go. Our ability to stay On Purpose means we must learn how to say No as much as we say Yes.
Intolerance Is Okay
Self-actualization cannot tolerate dysfunction. Remember the association trait in the Character module. The more we become the person we were intended to become, the more we attract people who are healthy and safe for us, with similar interests, situations, values, and status. The opposite is also true; we lose our tolerance for unhealthy relationships or associations and situations. This is positive and exhibits strength. Having our lives cluttered with people and situations uncommitted to growth, functionality, and purpose is not in our best interests. Move on from those who do not align with your purpose.
The Power of a Subtle Sustainable Approach
Many of today’s self-development programs are based on drama and hype, seducing individuals into get-fixed-quick or get-rich-quick schemes. The Transformational Leadership process is internal and subtle. Leadership is about you being calm, centered, and grounded—not hyper, frantic, and chaotic. Subtle development is more manageable and believable, and it fits naturally into the normal ebb and flow of your life. Patience is required for Transformational Leadership to succeed.
If, today, you decide that you are going to begin working out, then registering for a marathon next week is not advisable. Fitness takes time, but improvement will come. Baby Steps! That is the same for TL—allow the process to take you through sustainable changes.
Two Cautions
As you go through the Leadership process, we strongly advise that you avoid making any changes in two significant areas:
• Don’t change your career/role unless you are clear about the next steps. The best place to make a move is when you have a position. Yes, many of you will make significant decisions to change professions; just make sure it is a sound decision.
• Don’t change your spouse or partner or try to make that person a (convenient) scapegoat.
Many times, the change in your lifestyle—which will enhance the meaning, enrichment, depth, character, and feelings of your life—will transform the way you view your career or relationships.
Being Responsible
Transformational Leadership is a responsible way to lead your life because you are being accountable to yourself, your needs, your interests, your calling, and your passions. Therefore, you are in the best place to help others and to contribute to your community. You will be operating from a position of strength; you will have a wealth of resources to share with others. Your energy and engagement will inspire others to take action while fulfilling you at the same time. This seems like a win-win to me!
Keep theses strategies and concepts close to your heart while you embark on a new way of thinking, doing, and being. That will make it easier for you to break old habits and construct new habits.
What Are Your Beliefs?
Your Beliefs are the deeply held convictions, values, and assumptions that shape your thoughts, attitudes, behaviors, and decisions. They are the lenses through which you perceive the world and are often formed through a combination of personal experiences, cultural influences, and spiritual foundations.
Why Are Beliefs Important?
Beliefs are the driving force behind our actions and choices. They provide clarity, purpose, and direction in life. Understanding and living by your beliefs can lead to:
Alignment: Aligning your actions with your beliefs creates consistency and authenticity in your leadership style.
Resilience: Beliefs provide a strong foundation during challenging times, enabling you to persevere.
Influence: Leaders with clear, well-defined beliefs can inspire and motivate others to follow their vision.
Seven Transformational Leadership Cornerstone Principles on Why Beliefs Matter.
There are cornerstone principles that can make an important difference in our lives. Before we look more in-depth at the stages of Belief development consider these principles. If these cornerstones are not used to build teams, organizations, families and individual clarity, then the consequences can be serious.
1. Individual clarity precedes commitment
2. Individual commitment precedes motivation
3. Motivation precedes individual high performance
4. Individual performance precedes team performance
5. Team values alignment precedes high performance.
6. Goal clarity precedes team high performance
7. Higher performance is important in a competitive world
Clarity of Beliefs, Identity, and Purpose is the Foundation of All Commitment and Action
Beliefs, Identity and Purpose:
Beliefs form the cornerstone of motivation and purpose. To truly thrive and love your work, it’s essential to embark on a journey of self-discovery, seeking clarity about your true desires, identity, and purpose. Vision, values, and goals gain strength when rooted in motivating beliefs and a clear sense of identity. Those well-versed in this introspective journey should delve deeper, while newcomers should tread confidently, understanding the profound impact of clarity on motivation and performance.
Clarity about beliefs, identity, and purpose is fundamental to individual motivation, group cohesion, and organizational success. Without this clarity, individuals and organizations flounder, and when beliefs clash, productivity suffers. Achieving clarity eliminates confusion and directionlessness, fueling one’s motivational drive. Engaging in this self-exploration consciously rather than passively propels individuals towards realizing their aspirations. Over time, through reflection, discussions, and persistence, this clarity sharpens, leading to a focused vision, defined goals, and clearer plans.
Clarifying Beliefs: The Cornerstone of Effective Leadership
In our intricate world, clarity is vital for impactful leadership. Effective leaders first understand themselves, rooted in the clear understanding of their beliefs. We’ll discuss the significance of beliefs in leadership, incorporating research and practical examples.
Transformational Leadership hinges on well-defined beliefs and values. A leader without a clear moral direction is like an aimless ship in a stormy sea, resulting in inconsistent decisions and team distrust.
The depth of one’s understanding of their core beliefs is crucial yet complex. Without a clear internal foundation, building other skills becomes challenging. Enhancing clarity in our beliefs is essential for personal and professional growth.
While science explores the observable and the emerging realms like AI, beliefs address the profound questions of “who” and “why.” Answers to these shape our life approach, relationships, and overall perspective.
What is Beliefs Clarity?
Awareness is honed by probing life’s fundamental questions and seeking verified answers over time. For these answers to be trusted, they must be confirmed through various methods of understanding, such as empirical study, historical evidence, personal experience, archeology, intuition, and spiritual revelation.
If our beliefs lack validation across these dimensions, their grounding in reality becomes dubious. For instance, the widely held belief against murder, especially of innocent beings, is backed by various evidence sources, emphasizing its inherent wrongness due to the negative consequences. However, not all questions have straightforward answers.
While some argue that deep philosophical questions are irrelevant for daily life, focusing only on values and goals, such an approach ignores the desire of many to understand life’s deeper meaning and transcend the obvious.
Exercise 3.2: Group Discussion – Myths and Beliefs
• Printouts of the module content
• Pens and notepads
• Divide participants into small groups.
• Assign each group one of the myths or beliefs mentioned in the module.
• Ask groups to discuss the assigned concept and relate it to personal experiences.
• Each group will summarize their discussion and present to the larger group.
Course Manual 3: Clarifying What You Believe
The Personal Nature of Beliefs Clarity
Beliefs are by their nature intensely personal. They are our operating assumptions about life, love, safety, happiness, leadership, management, etc. If we want to know a person intimately, we might first ask what he or she believes to be most real, true, good, unreal, false, or bad. Then we will begin to get a picture of their position on some of the basic issues of life, which are really the major questions in life. In an annual survey of college and university students, (which was part of our degree in leadership) they identified some of “life’s most unanswered problem questions” and many not easy to answer.
1. What is really happening here on this planet? What is the purpose of matter and existence, if any?
2. Is it really possible to know at all, or should I just skip it as an issue I can’t resolve?
3. What criteria do I use to discern what is true from what is not true, good from bad, real from unreal?
4. How can I know whether these criteria are reliable and true, and what are the sources of these criteria?
5. Who am I: in relation to others, the world, the universe, God, etc.?
6. What should I do with my life: my calling? (we will dive deep into purpose in a later module)
7. What is truth? What is my definition of truth, where did I get it, and how do I know it is true?
8. What is the nature of human beings? Good? Evil? Neutral? Where did I get my belief? How did this human nature I believe in get to be the way it is: creation, the environment, the “fall into original sin,” conditioning, parents, all of the above, etc.?
9. Is there a supreme being or ultimate cause, or did everything just evolve from nothing, and how do I know?
10. Where did matter come from? Creation by some conscious designer, or statistical happenstance, evolution?
11. Is everything absurd, or is there underlying and inherent purpose in life and in the universe?
12. Are there any absolutes (truths that are immovable) or is “reality” relative to each person’s perspective?
13. What is the source(s) or cause(s) of negativity (“evil”) and positivity (“good”) in life? Are there many sources, one, none?
14. Is there life after death? If so, what kind, where, and with whom? If not, what happens, and how do I know this?
15. Is it possible to communicate with a higher being(s)? If so, how? If not, what difference does that make in my life?
16. What should I value? What is most important in life and what are my priorities?
These questions among many critical questions people ask, attempt to answer, or attempted to avoid answering. The fact that different people come up with clashing answers to these question account for much of the discord, misunderstanding and even conflict in relationships, in organizations and even between nations. We will come back in a minute to reference these questions for a personal exercise.
Why Some People Give Up on Gaining Clarity of Beliefs
For most people, getting to the bottom of the above kinds of questions is a meaningful task (or quest, depending upon their view of the issue). When we asked over students over the past 3 decades how many of them had generally either given up on answering these kinds of questions or found them to be irrelevant, approximately 32 percent said “yes.” These were the reasons they gave for giving up trying to answer the difficult questions of life.
1. Confusion, or a feeling of being overwhelmed by the complexity of both the questions and the diversity of answers
2. Lack of satisfying criteria for validating what is true or good
3. Lack of interest in the issue of clarification
4. Lack of understanding of the benefits of being more clear
5. Lack of information and knowledge about alternatives
6. Laziness or fear
The Advantage of Beliefs Clarity
It would seem in one way that those who have more clarity of beliefs enjoy an advantage over those who haven’t dealt with these questions. There is research (a good starting place is David Larson’s article in the American Journal of Psychiatry that summarizes years of psychiatric literature) to suggest that people with clear belief systems have less anxiety, more success, lower divorce rates, better leaders and lower stress-related illness rates. In a state of conscious awareness, they act on specific assumptions and are more likely aware of the consequences of taking action based on each specific belief position. This enables them to gain feedback from their environments about the validity and workability of their assumptions. Contrast this clarity of mind with the person who is unsure and unresolved, or who wavers from situation to situation and gets mixed feedback.
Some of those who claim to know specific answers were criticized by others for not having ever really searched and opened their minds in the first place, because they may have simply “swallowed” what was “fed” to them when they were children. This is a good point. Someone said that the unexamined life is not worth living.
It would appear from this informal study that the issue of beliefs is a highly charged and intensely personal one to most people. When challenged to rate the importance of this issue of beliefs clarity on a scale from 1 to 10, the average person gave the issue an 8.6 out of 10.
The Downside of Failing to Clarify Beliefs
People who avoid this whole issue of belief clarification, or give up on its resolution, perhaps are less deeply “rooted” in a life position. They may be more easily influenced to move in a number of directions, depending upon which way a personal, social, political, or economic “wind” is blowing at the time. They often claim that this “flexible” tendency is a strength, that they are open-minded, and willing to change with the times. They also often say, however, that they have little inner peace, that decision-making is difficult without a clear reference point, and that their relationships suffer because they often clash with individuals who have clear beliefs and they don’t really align well with people who do not have clear assumptions.
Those who have a metaphysical understanding of and an orientation to life (answers to the “why” questions) have a distinct advantage, even if their orientation may be ultimately incorrect in the end. They are more “solid,” act more consistently, can get feedback from the environment as to the validity and workability of their assumptions (because they have a position as a reference point), and, many times, are better able to understand others’ positions—a “tolerance” skill important when leading people.
Beliefs form the solid foundation of a clear purpose in life, and a clear set of values are structures upon which to build goals, strategies, and actions. With only values to live by, the “why” of life is not addressed, explored, or resolved in the least. Beliefs address the “why” and “what” questions of life directly. There is a hierarchical relationship between beliefs, purpose, values, goals, strategies and actions.
When people can share some basic beliefs, they are more likely to join together to create something productive. This is true for marriage partners or any other type of endeavor in business, health, education, community development, the military, or human services—where team effort is required.
Furthermore, if you understand others’ beliefs, you are more likely to comprehend why they have given their “hearts” to them, why they feel they need them, why they need to keep their own beliefs, and you can then be even more tolerant.
The Process of Clarification
So, why is this process of clarifying beliefs crucial for leadership? Fowler’s stages suggest that as we clarify our beliefs, we move towards higher stages of development. This clarity becomes a cornerstone for a leader’s identity, decision-making, and impact on their team and the world.
Here are the steps to help yourself and others clarify their beliefs:
1. Specify Beliefs: Leaders need to articulate their beliefs about life’s fundamental questions. This self-awareness provides a foundation for intentional leadership.
2. Identify Sources: Recognize the sources that have shaped your beliefs. Understanding these influences allows leaders to navigate their beliefs’ origins.
3. Validation Criteria: Leaders must establish criteria for validating their beliefs. This step empowers them to critically evaluate the authenticity of their convictions.
4. Position Paper: Create a clear and concise belief statement, serving as a compass for your leadership journey. Use the major questions provided.
5. Live Your Beliefs: Effective leaders don’t just profess their beliefs; they live them daily. Authenticity and congruence between beliefs and actions build trust.
6. Periodic Review: Beliefs evolve, and leaders should periodically review and refine their stance. This ongoing process fosters personal and leadership growth.
7. Explore Alternatives: Open-mindedness towards alternative beliefs enhances leadership, promoting tolerance and understanding.
Meaning (Beliefs) Before Purpose
For humans to have meaning, it must come from outside of themselves. This would require that there is an author of our life and our lives.
For some of you, you feel that you have this “meaning” element completely figured out, and that’s great. For others, you are not sure where to start. Still, there might be a few of you who are not fully comfortable with this discussion of spiritual meaning within this leadership course. I can understand that, but these opinions do not diminish spirituality’s importance to your Transformational Leadership process.
Case Study: A Personal Story
The reason I can speak so passionately about this topic is that I have personally been on this trek. As a young adult, I wondered about meaning, and I strongly doubted that my life had any significance, to the point where I sat in a chair with a loaded .22, contemplating suicide. I came to a point where I believed (falsely, mind you) that my life was of no consequence and really did not matter to anybody or anything. Thankfully, though, my desire to figure out meaning and purpose of my life was stronger than the appeal to leave it. I am here to categorically state that every single person on the planet can discover and find meaning in something greater than him or herself—but only if he or she is open to seeking this truth.
The conclusion that I came to, and that I have been able to verify for more than three decades now, is that each of us was and is created for a specific reason and purpose. This reason is personal and unique for every person on the planet, but this reason comes from the author of life. Yes, this assumption does require the existence of God. I believe that God exists, and that if He exists, life has objective meaning, but if God does not exist, then human life—your life—is a meaningless cosmic accident.
We respect the diversity of beliefs among the participants of this course as you follow the step-by-step processes for you to clarify your beliefs, purpose and values. I do encourage that all of you consider it, but I also want to respect each of you as you journey through this spiritual question of meaning. I do believe that if you want to realize your full potential and purpose and also want to become a successful Transformational Leader then this requires your engagement and resolution on the topic of meaning.
Can You Know the Truth About Your Spirituality?
Yes, you can know the truth, but only if you seek it!
Writing about spirituality can be a sensitive issue, but that doesn’t make the topic any less important. Political correctness has hindered full engagement of this subject. However, by not writing about it, we deny access to answers that will bring resolution to our true purpose in life.
Let me be clear. I am not talking about the humanistic, watered-down version of spirituality that typically refers to core values and unspecific beliefs; I am referring to the foundational beliefs on which all our lives exist and function.
Our lives operate under natural laws and truths. Regardless of our opinions about these laws, the laws do not change. One example is gravity. Just because we don’t understand it or even accept it, doesn’t mean gravity doesn’t exist. When people believed the world was flat, their collective opinion did not make it so.
This principle of natural laws and truth equally applies to spirituality and meaning. Personal relativism (deciding what spiritual truth or law is) applies no more to spirituality than it does to the science of gravity. Our focus should be on discovering spiritual truth, not on creating it—because, in fact, no one can create spiritual truth.
If we truly believe that all truth and life guidelines are relative, then we condone all human conduct and behavior. This suggests that everyone gets to decide what is right and wrong—and what is truth.
If we embrace relativism, then we must accept horrific acts such as women being murdered or marred for just looking at a man the “wrong way.” And we must also allow the killing and mutilation of children, selling them as sex slaves as is done in many countries around the world, or, as some tribes/cultures teach, “if you are not part of my tribe, your life does not matter.”
Exercise 3.3 – Group Reflection
Course Manual 4: Beliefs Clarity Exercises
We asked that you take the time to reflect and respond the following questions: We will expand on these questions in the purpose module.
Beliefs are Your Assumptions about these Concepts:
1. WHAT is going on here in this universe?
2. What is true, real, false, unreal, good, and bad?
3. How can I validate what is true? What criteria are reliable?
4. What is the origin, source, and purpose of life?
5. What is at the foundations of life?
6. Why does life exist? My life?
7. How should I conduct my life and how should I love?
8. Should I even concern myself with these types of questions?
9. How do I know my life has meaning?
Dr. Steiger’s Questions
10. What is the meaning of life?
11. Does God exist?
12. Do all religions lead to God?
13. Why is there evil?
14. Is there life after death?
These are, of course, tough questions. Your beliefs are the foundation cornerstones of everything you think, judge, plan, hope for, and seek to achieve. They form the basis for all moral and ethical decisions. They are the screen through which you filter and interpret your world. Your beliefs also determine your mental attitude to some extent—in terms of your being basically hopeful, neutral, or pessimistic about life.
Some people have very clearly defined assumptions about what they believe, but most people are just not clear. Others dismiss the issue as “philosophic fuzzy stuff” that they don’t want to deal with right now. The caution is, be careful how you assume things to be because for you, that’s how they are right now!
We should say here that we believe that some beliefs are and can be in error. For example, we cannot subscribe to fascism or any type of authoritarian rule that overrides individual free will because we BELIEVE that free will is integral to commitment, motivation, morale and performance. You can continue to clarify your beliefs over time and, as you do so, you will discover greater depth of meaning in life and work.
Exercise
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Your Identity is Based on:
1. WHO and WHAT you believe you are
2. Experiences with family
3. Experiences with social groups and school
4. Success, failure, and traumatic experiences
5. A vision of what could be possible for you
6. An internal image of how you think others see you
Your identity is shaped and limited by the boundaries of your beliefs. You can only think of yourself in ways you assume are true about the nature of people and the nature of life itself. For example, if you assume, as the existential philosophers do, that life is absurd and has no meaning, then you will consider you are nothing but a speck of sand on the shore of a drifting, chaotic universe that may be washed away at any moment. The consequences of such a belief system are that people often adopt a philosophy of, “Carpe Diem” (seize life!)—or translated into “baby buster’s” language (age seventeen to thirty): “Party on dude, for tomorrow we may die!”
If, on the other hand, you assume you are a created spirit of an intentional Being who knows and cares for you and all people, then your view of your identity will be that you and all people are extremely precious—the most valuable of all life forms and more valuable than the most expensive crown jewel. Would you trade someone you love for such a gemstone? This is just an example of how our beliefs shape what we can conceive ourselves and others to be. This conception, therefore, shapes our beliefs about our own and others’ worth.
Case Study: Mia’s Nihilistic Phase
Mia, a 19-year-old college freshman, was deeply influenced by her literature class where they studied existentialist writers. Their ideas resonated with her, making her question the meaning of life. She embraced the belief that life is random and meaningless, which influenced her daily decisions. She often missed classes, indulged in late-night parties, and neglected her health, embracing the “Carpe Diem” philosophy. However, after a series of introspective exercises similar to the “Beliefs Clarity Exercises,” she started to find a deeper sense of purpose, realizing the value of her own existence and that of others. She shifted from a life of recklessness to one of mindfulness and purpose.
Key Takeaway: Questioning and understanding one’s beliefs can lead to a profound transformation in behavior and outlook towards life.
If you want to gain clarity about how you see yourself now, you can list words or phrases that describe who and what you believe you are (such as “visionary leader,” “protector of the people,” “cool dude,” “great musician,” “serious scholar,” “child of God,” etc.). These phrases can help you to remain conscious of how you see yourself. How you see yourself limits or expands what you will do with your life in a serious way.
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Course Manual 5: What Do You Really Value?
The research on the importance of clarifying our values (so that we can live a satisfied and fulfilled life with confidence) is irrefutable. If you don’t know or can’t clearly articulate your core values, it will be impossible for you to make values-based decisions. If you don’t have a clue what your core values are, this chapter will help you, so you can start making the right decisions every time!
Here are just a few studies that anchor the relevance of values in our lives.
Reduces Stress
A study conducted by Traci Mann of the University of California, Los Angeles found that participants who affirmed their values had significantly lower cortisol responses compared to control participants. It suggests that reflecting on your values can keep neuroendocrine and psychological responses to stress at low levels. A high level of stress will not only lower your wellness levels, but it will also hinder your ability to live your life On Purpose.
Strengthen Willpower
A study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that confirming and affirming our values can replenish willpower when it has been depleted by repeated acts of low self-control. Self-affirmation is a strategy to improve self-control. One of the character qualities of those who are living their life On Purpose is discipline. Knowing your values will assist you in developing this character quality or resilience.
Increased Openness
The University of Chicago found in its research that values affirmation exercises allowed participants to objectively evaluate information that would normally evoke a defensive reaction. They became less biased in favor of their own position and became more discriminating in evaluating others. The more subjective we can be while not becoming defensive, the more effective and grounded we can be in our lives.
Improved Accuracy
In a University of Toronto study, researchers found that people who affirmed their values were more receptive to negative feedback and were better able to recognize and correct their own errors. “Self-affirmation produces large effects.” Part of our growth mindset is our readiness and willingness to receive feedback. Knowing our values helps us to accept feedback that might not be positive, which helps each of us grow and develop.
Closed Achievement Gaps
Geoffrey Cohen of Stanford University found that affirming values raised test scores, especially among minority students and female students in science and math. Personal affirmation of values protected students from “stereotype threat” and reduced concerns about their ability to succeed. If you think about it long enough, all of us can be part of a minority group. It could be age (too old or too young), intelligence, education, experience, location, job title, gender, etc. Interestingly, when we are clear about our values, we don’t use these vices (external threats) as an excuse for our performance.
I think we can safely say that we have established that having clear values is an important factor in our purpose journey.
What Is a Value?
A value is something that holds great worth to you—it is important enough that you spend time trying to fulfill or keep it as part of your lifestyle. A value is simply a label for something that is vital for you.
Values are internal and personal to you. You will find you have embraced certain values from your environment and/or social factors; other values seem part of your genetic makeup. Regardless of the potential source or circumstances, the key is to understand that your values are uniquely yours.
Your values reflect a vital part of who you are. Knowing what is most important to you, and why, is foundational to you making meaningful decisions in all parts of your life. It is very difficult to make decisions about work, recreation, home, and interpersonal relationships without first knowing what is most important to you.
People who are confused or unclear about their values often have difficulty making the bigger decisions in life because they don’t know themselves well enough to decide what would be best for them. That is especially true today, with all the mixed messages that pull us in different directions.
For instance, if you value organization, you will work best in an organized environment. If you value pleasure, you will value situations and people who create pleasurable (fun) experiences for you. Individuals tend to value different things and types of situations because they have different needs.
Everything in your life is a reflection of the values you are embracing and living.
The research is clear; the majority of individuals are, at some level, unhappy with their lives.
Case Study
I recall a time when my values were challenged. My friend Mike called to invite me to a special investment opportunity meeting that was by “invitation only.” The investment offering was limited and exclusive, so it was important to get to that first meeting, if I wanted to be part of it. I committed to attending with Mike on Thursday at 7:00 p.m.
When Thursday rolled around, my wife, Brenda, called just after 6:00 p.m. from her cell phone to ask if I was driving to the kids’ concert on my own or if I wanted her to pick me up from the office.
What kids’ concert? Wow! I had completely forgotten. Mike was to arrive in a few minutes. I shared this dilemma with Brenda and asked her to tell the kids that I had given my word to Mike, so I would not attend the concert. I knew that she was filming them, so I promised to watch the video with them when I got home.
Rather than agree to my suggestion, Brenda, in her wisdom, said, “No, you tell the kids you are not coming,” and she handed the cell phone to my son. (Note this occurred before distracted driving laws.) I proceeded to explain to Tim the merits of keeping my word to Mike. I told him his mom would videotape their performance and I promised to view the video of their concert as soon as I got home. My son, showing great insight at age nine, said, “Daddy, why don’t you just say ‘No?’” I thought about it, and wisely chose to attend the concert instead of the meeting.
Some false beliefs were influencing my desire to attend the investment meeting and not my children’s concert.
One was the fear of loss. I was incorrectly framing this specific investment meeting as my “last chance” to ever get into a ground-level development with a high rate of return. This thinking is called scarcity mentality, and it infers that there would never be another investment opportunity like that one—ever again! Of course, in hindsight, I realize this is a ridiculous belief.
On the other hand, never again would I have had the opportunity to attend my kids’ concert. That was the real truth for me, according to my core values.
What about you? If I called you right now, could you articulate your top values? Are you using your values to make everyday decisions?
The Importance of Values Cuts Two Ways
As critical as it is to be clear about our own values, it is equally important to understand the values and related needs of the major interpersonal relationships in your life.
People with different values tend to disagree more often than individuals with similar values. Conflicts in relationships—both at home and at work—often can occur because two individuals have opposite views on a situation. Their perceptions and viewpoints are influenced by their values.
For example, a wife who values security may argue with her husband who values recreation; she prefers to use their resources to open a savings account while he wants to buy a speedboat.
Values are intensely personal—that’s true for you and for everyone you meet. It is essential to remember that what you feel is important (value) might not even appear on another person’s radar—and vice versa.
Although that observation seems obvious, many individuals still don’t acknowledge the various values we each hold and the deep implications that values have in all our interactions with self and others.
Each style dimension has related needs, fears, and values. What drives me to behave in certain ways may not drive you. For example, I spent long hours sitting at a computer, writing this course. The decision to use this time to produce a course rather than something else was inspired by my values, which include both needs and fears.
Those variables will differ for others. Some will be inspired to use their time to complete tasks, such as restoring an old car or learning a foreign language. I have little interest in either activity.
How Are Individuals Inspired to Do One Thing Rather Than Another?
Understanding the answer is key to understanding other people and ourselves.
Theories on internal motivation suggest we are stimulated to engage things that meet our predominant needs and to disengage from activities that don’t meet our needs. When something consistently meets a particular need of ours, it becomes more attractive and valuable to us.
We can tell what is important to us by listening to the “voice” of our feelings.
Feelings are related to needs and values. For example, when you feel satisfied to engage in a particular activity, something about that activity is meeting one (or more) of your needs.
When you feel dissatisfied, that activity is not fulfilling your needs. Activities that consistently make you feel positive (happy, joyful, confident, proud, etc.) are therefore more important and valuable to you than activities that leave you feeling negative (upset, sad, mad, disappointed, depressed, stressed, etc.).
Exercise 3.5: Values Preference Indicator
Course Manual 6: What Do You Really Value? Part 2
Assessment Debrief and Application.
The following Values List which is identical to the assessment is proprietary and copyrighted to and part of our Personal Style and Values Models. What is unique about this list of values is they are behavioral values, not contextual values, meaning these values are internal motivators at the core of your personhood—that without them, something is seriously missing in your life’s fulfillment. Contextual values change based on circumstances, such as having children (but if you don’t have kids, this contextual value would obviously not apply!).
You will find your responses to the assessment in your completed report. We suggest that you print it off for easy of use and application.
Your Top 7 values, look at the big picture—the way your values pertain to all areas of your life, not just to your work or to your home life separately.
Special Note: This list of values is not meant to be all-inclusive; it focuses on behavioral values linked to each style dimension of the Personal Style Indicator.
VPI – Values List©
In your values report page 8 we list your two lists of values you created. The list on the left is the list produced from the “window shopping exercise.” The list on the right is your matrix results where you make over 300 decisions.
The first list represents what we call “window shopping.” You reviewed the list of 21 values and determined what you felt are your Top 7 values in the order of priority for you.
While you were doing this exercise, did you find you wanted to have more than seven values, or that you did not want to select one particular value as number one, but rather cluster a few in that top slot?
Values provide you a filter to make all of life’s decisions, which, for the most part, should be non-negotiable.
Case Study
Trick question: What makes a value valuable? The answer is, YOU do! There are no right or wrong values on this list—just your priorities, such as when I had to choose between my kids’ concert or an investment meeting. That is what values are doing for you—helping you prioritize.
A client called me to help him with his department, which was experiencing a 400% staff turnover. This was a national retail chain and the division was the credit collections department. The manager had set a vision that he wanted to have the “nicest credit collection department in the country.” Admittedly, credit collections don’t usually have a high level of credibility with the public. Though the goal was honorable, the manager made one major error. To achieve his vision of having a “nice” department, he hired individuals who had “tranquility” as a core value, which means they need or desire harmony. However, the number-one fear of those who value tranquility is conflict.
So what do you think would be a major part of this position, even if you were a nice person? Conflict—right! (Hence the 400% turnover.) He had hired individuals whose core values did not match the role or position, and therefore their engagement was not sustainable—no matter how hard they tried. I worked with him to shift his hiring practices to better reflect the reality of the role, and in just 90 days, we were able to lower the turnover rate to around 40%.
What’s Motivating You?
Values should be anchor points for living life. After conducting values programs (in conjunction with style programs) for more than 35 years, with thousands of individuals, I am continually surprised by the high percentage of people who are unclear or uncertain about their values.
If you are willing to change or sell out on a value, I maintain that the value was not important to you in the first place.
Although values do change and are revised throughout our lifetime, such as when we have children, there usually is a core set of behavioral values that are non-negotiable and consistent throughout our lifetime.
When our workshop participants review their list of values, we find that some participants often want to have seven number-one values. But, of course, that can’t be. Whether we realize it or not, we are all constantly choosing one value over another in our daily lives.
In many cases, what we state is important to us is not always reflected in our life choices, such as watching TV rather than spending time with loved ones, or going to the movies instead of exercising.
Have you heard people say their family is important to them, yet they never spend any time with them? Their actions are not congruent with their words; this is a sign of values misalignment.
Values Have Related Needs and Fears
Needs and fears function as apposing weights on a scale. When needs are adequately met, fears decrease. If needs are consistently unmet, fears increase. For example, if you have a high need for acceptance, you will have a greater fear of rejection than a person with a low need for acceptance.
When I use the word “fear” (in this context), I mean the fears common in everyday life that produce feelings of insecurity and stress and that reduce our levels of personal effectiveness and fulfillment. (We covered fear in detail in our Mindset chapter.)
Our values, needs, and fears are conveyed through our feelings and through our behavior and decisions. We have positive feelings when our needs are being satisfied and negative or draining feelings when our needs go unfulfilled.
For example, I feel better when I achieve a goal than when I fail. Negative feelings are signals to us and to others that we are not satisfied with something in a particular situation.
When our needs are consistently unfulfilled, discontentment develops. Those feelings have their source in particular needs that, over time, have gone unmet by people or situations in our environment.
Small dissatisfactions based on internal needs (not being met) from within our personality can develop into larger ones if these negative conditions prevail for a long period.
High-level fears, once established, can have ongoing repercussions in our life; they continue to reflect the unmet needs of the past.
Needs Prompt Behavior
In contrast, worry can override or stem our natural impulse to take action. Fears also can provoke less desirable behavior, such as dishonesty and deceit.
Case Study
During one of my consulting visits at an auto dealership, a sales rep said—in fact, insisted—that he valued honesty. However, during a potential transaction, I observed that he was not forthcoming with all the details of the used car he was selling.
My challenge to him was that he was living “situational values”—important only at certain times, and negotiable at others.
Was honesty really a value for him?
The fear of losing his job challenged and overpowered this sales rep’s value of honesty. By his actions, he showed that he valued job security more than honesty. In other words, he sold out on his value of honesty.
In the following grid found in page 10 of your values report, I outline the fears, worries, or concerns linked to each of the values and needs.
![](https://www.appletongreene.com/wp-content/uploads/Ken.1.png)
Dr Keis, 2023
Many individuals allow their fears and worries to control their decisions and behavior, rather than engaging their primary needs and the values that will fulfill them.
If we have a low need for something, not getting it will be less of a threat to us than not getting something else that is important. For instance, I have little need for tranquility, so when it is not present, there are no repercussions for me.
What Happens if You Are Not Living Your Values?
It is amazing how many people are not living their core values.
In a lively discussion during one of my values seminars, a participant suggested that if people really valued something other than what they are doing, they would choose to do it. He stated that each of our lives, at this very moment, reflects our true values.
Although that seems a logical concept, it assumes:
1. People know their values, and
2. They are consciously (readily and willingly) choosing their path.
In my experience with thousands of individuals, those two points simply are not true.
Year after year, people list values that are important to them, yet they don’t live those values. For example, some people claim to value health, wellness, and fitness, but they never exercise, they eat poorly, and they are bordering on obesity.
My encouragement to someone with a value that is not being fulfilled is to do something about it, or get it off that list! If this sounds like you, stop trying to fool yourself and everybody else that it is important to you. In reality, it is not. Every day that you keep it on your values list is a day you are living out of congruence. That becomes an internal drain and a burden to you emotionally, whether you acknowledge it or not.
There is another factor called Values Oppression, which comes in various stripes. I was working with a father/son team on the succession planning of the family business. When I asked the son privately what he really wanted to do with his life, he said he wanted to work in the arts and acting—not in business.
I asked him why he was willing to take over the family business, which he did not value. “I am from Asia,” he said. “Tradition expects the firstborn male to follow in his father’s footsteps.”
No matter what approach I tried, the cultural pressure and family expectations on the son had greater influence (importance) than the fulfillment of his own personal values.
We have linked the values to their related needs. Reflect on how your needs and values are being realized or omitted.
Applying the Time and Energy Test to Your Top Values
Much of our personal and professional fulfillment in life comes from living and embracing our top values.
You would think that the way people invest their time and energy would reveal what is important to them. However, as I already mentioned, many people’s lives/actions are not congruent with their core values. Based on research, that is more common than we would like to think. Many individuals are living lives that do not reflect their core values and needs.
Have you been proactive and intentional in choosing your values?
I suggest you use two measures to confirm that your values and needs are being met: time and energy.
For example, even though two people value friendship, the amount of time required to feel fulfillment in this value is intensely personal.
One individual may find that seeing good friends for a couple of hours once a month is enough to satisfy that value and have his or her needs met. Another person might require double or triple that amount of time to meet his or her friendship value.
The energy we invest also influences our need level. Going to a private dinner with close friends is much different from attending a large party or BBQ with them.
As you proceed with the next step, please be as authentic as possible in determining whether your personal needs and values are being met from the perspective of both time and energy.
During our values seminars, we have individuals confirm whether their values are being met by using the time and energy test on each of their Top 7 values.
Case Study
During this exercise in one of our workshops, a 23-year-old male at the back of the room was in tears. I went to talk to him during the break to find out what was happening. He had concluded that not one of his Top 7 values was being realized. I asked if he had any insight into why that was the case. He said he lived at home with his parents and that for his whole life, he had been doing what his parents wanted, not what was important to him.
His tears came from the realization that his life did not reflect his core values.
Use your top values and your style as filters to make your choices in life.
One of my top values is independence. When I received a job offer to join a successful organization, I used my values to screen its potential. I quickly realized that no matter how much money I was offered, my core value of independence would not be met. I would not be able to sustain my interest in the job without compromising my values, and I was not willing to do that.
It also is important to learn the values that are important to the people in your close relationships. If their values are different from yours, are you accepting their need to live their values while they accept yours? That can be a freeing and powerful exercise.
Exercise 3.6
Course Manual 7: Living On Purpose
The answer to career and life quandaries is simple, really. We only need to know the WHAT that we want. The HOW and WHY aren’t necessary—in fact, they can be obstacles to action.–Mike McManus, Founder of the Source Experience
I first want to state that your Quest for Purpose is a continual journey until the day you die. It is not something you will ever “reach,” like a goal (though goals contribute to your purpose); rather, it is an active-tense experience through which you are unceasingly engaged in the realization of your purpose. This quest is not to be a burden or a performance measure, but rather a state of being and doing, aligned with your calling, through which you find life to be fulfilling, rewarding, and personally purposeful.
But sadly, most of us will not acknowledge, realize, or claim our life’s purpose. There are numerous studies to support this position, including the Gallup global workplace study (142 countries), which we referenced which shows workforce engagement at less than 13%. That means, at best, 87% of the population dislike what they do, from “mildly irritated” to “loathe.”
I live in British Columbia (Canada)—consistently ranked as one of the top most attractive and areas in the world. Yet, a recent life satisfaction survey it identified Vancouver residents as having the lowest level of life satisfaction in the Canada. Why the disconnect—could one reason be a lack of purpose?
We live in a time of unceasing information and choices. The reality is that all these options can overwhelm someone who has not taken the time to clarify their life purpose. At this moment, there are 40,000+ job descriptions, and growing every day, in the U.S. alone. Some of the jobs that some of you will have, or will do, have not even been invented yet.
What could be some of the reasons that so many individuals are not living their life On Purpose?
• Society’s “microwave” and ADHD expectations could be part of the problem—if people can’t figure it out in a 5-minute assessment or 10-minute conversation, then they will abandon the purpose process because of their impatience.
• Maybe it’s the narcissistic mindset, demanding instant gratification, which is in conflict with the deep, mindful, thoughtful, and reflective process of determining and confirming life purpose of contribution and giving—not self-centeredness.
• Perhaps it involves misguided priorities; where we will spend more time, money, and energy on entertainment in one weekend than in developing ourselves or discovering our purpose. One of my students said he would never spend $50 on an assessment to help get clearer on who he was, yet he headed out that very night and dropped over $50 on a movie, drinks, and food. Our priorities are reflected in our actions.
• The developed world’s dysfunctional obsession with consumerism falsely suggests that fulfillment comes from that next great purchase or acquisition; sadly, that “consumerism high” quickly fades.
• Some individuals are overwhelmed by the question of living On Purpose and have no idea where to begin or start, so they acquiesce to a life of indifference, admitting failure and quitting before they even start.
• Some are misguided by well-meaning relatives, friends, and colleagues who discount the concept of purpose or dreams, so they relent under peer pressure from others who, in many cases, are not clear about their own life purpose, either.
I had the privilege of having dinner with Richard N. Bolles (author of the bestselling book What Color Is Your Parachute?) and Richard Knowdell, a veteran in the career development industry. (sadly both recently passed away) But between the two of them, they had 80+ years’ experience in the career development and life purpose arena. So I asked them why—with so many resources, books, and programs available for career and life direction—are there so many people unclear about their life direction and purpose? In unison, they answered, “People are not willing to do the work!”
Could another reason that we are unclear about our life purpose is that we are simply lazy?
It takes effort to confirm our purpose, and with the advent of mobile media (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, etc.), perhaps it is easier to be a mindless observer and a “fan” of life, rather than a participant and player. The unfortunate fact is many of you reading this line (in the introduction, no less) will probably not finish this book. Distractions abound, and it requires discipline to focus on what is really important.
However, I want to deeply encourage those of you who will take the steps and engage your “Quest for Purpose and life clarification process”—it is worth it! Just as you leaned into your beliefs clarification this is the also important. It is the difference between merely existing and living a bright, alive life. It is not that those with purpose have any fewer challenges (in many cases, they have more), but that they are deeply connected to their interests, gifts, talents, and calling, which daily inspires them to take action; at the same time, living their purpose fulfills them.
These modules On Purpose were written for those of you who want to realize your potential in all areas of their life, so that you might be able to contribute at the highest level, which is where the greatest amount of personal and professional fulfillment is realized.
We thank you for the honor to contribute to your journey confirming and clarifying your life purpose; after all, my own purpose is to assist others to live, lead, and work On Purpose!
Case Study – Authors Note:
I went for coffee with one of my fellow colleagues who shared about the international contract that he had just completed for a Fortune 100 company who is in the retail space.
His mandate was to create a highly engaged workforce and positive team environment/culture. Every single staff member was required to attend. I asked him what did he teach – his answer Purpose! I said please explain why purpose is so important to engagement? (I had my answer but I wanted to hear his) He stated that is impossible to motivate, lead or manage individuals who have no idea about their life purpose. So the company made the commitment to its staff to help them to get clear so they could be engaged. This is true for me and for you. Purpose is foundational to engagement and professional success.
Not only is it important to you but you can take these concepts and strategies and downstream to those you serve. If the team members you lead don’t know their purpose, like my colleague stated, it will be nearly impossible to motivate or inspire them without it.
Your Purpose Journey Begins
Make a Commitment to Yourself
Commitment is a serious mental state; it should not be taken lightly. To commit means to bind, and requires follow-through. To bind yourself is equally as important as to bind to another. To commit to yourself mandates a stand for your beliefs and directions toward your purpose and fulfillment.
Getting Started
Creating a masterpiece takes time!
Conversely, sufficient time does not always result in a masterpiece. Traversing through this purpose process, if done thoughtfully, could take you several weeks or even longer. Don’t be concerned about the time it takes you to complete the process. As long as you are committed to going forward, take as long as you need to be clear about your responses. The purpose process is a personal assessment and a self-discovery approach; there is no set timeframe. You can’t fail because all the answers come from you.
Case Study
I personally spent over six months responding, reflecting, and documenting in my Purpose journal. During that initial process, I chronicled over 50 handwritten pages in 3 months in a spiral-bound notebook. I then took another three months in the implementation and planning stage. I conducted my work regularly, but I also hired a life coach (long before coaching was mainstream) to help me be accountable. I encourage you to set up a structure that works for you, considering your learning style and in the context of your environment. Be intentional!
The Purpose process is something you can do for the rest of your life as you continue to fine-tune and adjust your path, discovering new things and achieving deeper clarity in all the spokes of your Life Wheel.
All I ask is that you be as candid and real with yourself. Don’t limit or restrict your responses. After all, your responses are “For Your Eyes Only.” And you have permission to update, add, and revise responses any time you like. That’s expected in the Transformational Leadership program—that’s why its called a process. You will tweak your purpose plan and, to your delight, your purpose will become clearer.
Purpose Completion Tips
1. Plan to be successful.
2. Keep your Purpose journal handy for recording your thoughts and ideas. Add additional pages in the sections where you need more space. We have provided space in this module, or use a three-ring binder, file folder, notebook, or whatever serves you best to document your work. Some of you might wish to use your mobile device, tablet, or computer to document your thoughts. Although there are no rules about the method you use, please have a non-technology alternative handy, such as a notepad and pen. At midnight, it might be a challenge to find that device to quickly input your thoughts. When you have an inspiration, quickly write a note, then transfer it into your master journal.
3. If you choose to do an audio recording of your initial responses to each exercise, that is fine, but you must transcribe the audio into a written format. You might consider a voice-to-text software or application to do this. A written version is needed so you can review, revise, and add to the content. A written (in-print) version of all your exercise responses is a prerequisite for you to complete your Key Words Analysis exercise.
4. Because the completion of your Purpose exercises will not happen by accident, we encourage that you schedule times for completing each of the activities and questions. The Purpose process is designed to be accomplished in sequence, but you may be inspired to respond to one of the three “Big 10” lists before you complete another area. That’s quite all right. However, all the exercises are to be completed prior to you being able to complete the final exercises.
5. Please include your responses, reports, and insights from the Personal Style and Values Assessments into your review process. You can add them to your Master Quest file/binder to maximize your results.
6. Please don’t omit any questions or steps in the process.
7. The two greatest gifts you can give to others are for you to be
100% engaged in your own life and to encourage others to do the same. If you feel some people you know could benefit from Transformational Leadership, please inform them of this course and encourage them to reach out to Appleton Greene for more information and help make a difference in their lives.
We have verified over the years that the impact of Purpose is in direct proportion to the level of responsibility and action the participant takes in completing the Purpose exercises. You will get what you put into this process.
Be ready to discover and confirm the following:
• Who you are
• What you really want to do in all your areas of your life
• How to simultaneously activate both your life plan and your career plan
Personal Exercise – What Is Your Master Life Purpose?
• What do I believe in? (You can bring this from your Beliefs module or just reference it. Add anything new here)
• What is my most basic philosophy?
• What do I stand for in my life?
• Why am I here?
• What are my basic beliefs?
• What is my mission in life?
• What do I perceive to be my destiny?
• What is my Master Life Purpose?
Course Manual 8: Your Positive Review
The first principle of ethical power is Purpose! By purpose, we mean your objective or intention—something to which you are always striving. Purpose is something bigger. It is the picture you have of yourself—the kind of person you want to be—the kind of life you want to lead. – Kenneth Blanchard & Norman Vincent Peale
Exercise
• In this exercise, you are creating the autobiography (documenting in writing) of your past, present, and anticipated future, but remember—you are documenting only positive experiences—nothing negative or neutral.
• Think back to the earliest age you can recall, then reconstruct and journal each year of your life from that point. Maybe at age five, it was that trip to Disneyland or a friend’s birthday party.
• Assess your present life and look ahead to your future possibilities.
• List only your abilities that match your interests. If you are interested in something but feel inept in that area, please list it. If you are very good at something but hate doing it or it does not interest you at all, then leave it out. If you are unsure because the environment was not positive, then maybe note that for future consideration.
• Review your photos, videos, files, letters, communications, reports, school assignments, clippings, school annuals, etc.—anything that helps you recall the various occurrences in your life.
o Why did you enjoy these times and those people, places, things, etc.?
o You are paying close attention to the specific elements of these events or experiences that contributed to your positive experience.
o Example: When I did my Positive Review, I listed most of my 4-H trips and conferences. What was it about these experiences that I found so positive? I journaled items like traveling to new places, meeting new people, traveling with a group, a sense of adventure and something new, and a feeling of accomplishment, since all these trips were won. One of those trips included speaking to an audience of 400 in the Royal York Hotel in downtown Toronto when I was 16. I recall being nervous, but also very excited and energized. That is when I knew I was called to communicate and encourage others. At that moment, becoming a speaker was not a question of if but when.
Please write out (other by hand or type) your interests, inspirations, attractions, fascinations, intrigues, and natural curiosities in the following life areas of your life. I have segmented this into eight specific categories. I have found that by doing it this way, it is much easier to respond to the questions rather than more generic question, “What do you enjoy in your life?”—which is far too broad for helping people confirm their purpose. There are no right or wrong responses—only your responses.
Note: Yes you can do this via audio recording but please transcript into print afterwards.
Case Study: Positive Review
For a brief example to illustrate the above exercise, please see below:
Earliest Memory: At the age of 4, I remember baking cookies with my grandmother. The aroma, her laughter, and the taste of those fresh cookies is a memory I cherish.
Age 5: My first trip to the zoo where I saw an elephant up close and was fascinated by its sheer size and gentleness.
Age 6: Started school and made my first friend, Emily, who remained my friend throughout elementary school.
Age 10: Joined a children’s choir. This was the start of my lifelong love for singing.
Age 13: Family trip to Hawaii where I learned how to surf and developed an appreciation for the ocean.
Age 16: Won a school essay contest, igniting my passion for writing.
Age 18: Graduated high school as class valedictorian. The feeling of achievement was overwhelming.
Present (Age 25): Currently working as a content writer for a reputed firm. I’m also part of a community choir and recently traveled with them for a performance in Europe.
Anticipated Future: Hoping to write a book and take advanced singing lessons.
Abilities & Interests:
• Ability: Writing – I’ve always been complimented on my writing style.
• Interest: Singing – Even if I’m not the best singer, the joy it brings me is immeasurable.
Memory Triggers:
• Photo: A picture of my first choir performance. Reminds me of the thrill of singing in front of an audience.
• Letter: A letter of appreciation from my first employer, praising my dedication.
• School Assignment: My essay from high school, which won the contest.
Why I enjoyed these times: The shared experiences, the sense of achievement, and the chance to connect with my passions.
Special Note: As you begin to journal your thoughts, you will more than likely have crossover among the eight different Positive Review categories—this is normal, even expected. Example: Under Senses, you list a trip into the mountains and you appreciated the smell of the fresh mountain air and the sound of a raging waterfall. Under Places, you list the same trip, because you loved the energy and the majesty of the mountains. Repeating this narrative is part of the clarity process as you break down the various elements that interest, encourage, and inspire you.
The reason for the categories is asking people what’s your purpose is too big or broad of a question. This activity helps you to ID the pieces of a puzzle to your life and then we can construct a life going forward using these insights and clues.
• Senses: Smells, tastes, touches, sounds, sights
• People: Who? Why do they interest you or attract you?
• Places: Where? (geographic)
• Intellectual: Ideas, inventions, concepts
• Experiences
• Belonging: Memberships, associations, groups, clubs
• Learning: Formal and informal education
• Work: Paid or unpaid (volunteer); itemize tasks
Remember: It is important that you disregard any neutrals or negatives that come to mind. Include only positives.
Senses: Smells, tastes, touches, sounds, sights
When I responded to this item, I included the roar and speed of military jet planes, the tranquility of listening to pounding ocean waves, the majesty of snow-covered mountains, and the smell of a fresh-cut field of grass.
People: Who? Why do they interest you or attract you?
This is about their qualities and characteristics. Be as detailed and specific as possible. These do not have to be individuals whom you personally know; they could be anyone famous or inspirational—a leader, athlete, mentor, someone who overcame adversity, etc.
Places: Where? (geographic)
This can include places where you have yet to visit, or that fascinate you. I included the climate and environment that I prefer to live, but also my trips—such as my diving experience on the Great Barrier Reef and visiting 500+-year-old castles in England.
Intellectual: Ideas, inventions, concepts
This does not have to be something that you have personally invented or done, but your curiosity and interests in someone else’s work or achievements.
Experiences
What have you done that has been energizing or fulfilling for you? Or what would you like to do/experience? As a family, we have been very blessed with trips and opportunities around the world. Each year, for the past 20 years, our family has had some type of special and memorable experience—from white water rafting, Disneyland, Kennedy Space Center, snorkeling in Hawaii, bungee jumping, skiing/snowboarding, jet skiing, go-karting, and zip lining to other items like mission trips and volunteering together to serve in our local community groups. I included the privilege and honor of speaking in front of audiences of thousands.
Belonging: Memberships, associations, groups, clubs, friends
Life is about being plugged in and connected with likeminded groups, causes, and support networks. What are these for you? Think about all areas of your life, including professional development, personal hobbies and interests, or maybe causes that you have a passion for—like advocacy for a disenfranchised group. When I first completed this activity, my connection to the National Speakers Association was important. Not only was it a peer identification group, but it was also a place to be mentored in the profession in which I was called to serve.
Learning: Formal and informal education
Learning has changed so rapidly in the past 50 years; we are living in one of the most exciting times in humankind, when you can access whatever knowledge you want, whenever you want. What types and kinds of learning (and from whom) work best for you? As mentioned, my learning changed a few years ago with the advent of the mobile podcast. My iPhone makes learning portable and accessible to whomever I want. I also receive daily newsletters, allowing me to spend 30-40 minutes every day learning and reading on topics I am passionate about. I attend seminars and workshops for world-class experts, and so on. When I completed my doctorate, it involved a project based on a topic and area that interested me, where I was not arbitrarily forced to take required courses that were of no interest to me or that held no passion for me.
Even our daily knowledge needs, like how to change the brakes on our car or write a book, can be found on YouTube. How cool is that?
Work: Paid or unpaid (volunteer); itemize tasks
Work includes all formal and informal efforts, including students, volunteers, parents, and paid employment. Segment your narrative as much as you can into the components, tasks, and responsibilities of the work that you enjoyed—not the job title. Many years ago, as a foreman for a summer fair work crew, I identified what I liked and enjoyed doing, which included organizing, being in charge, being challenged while under extreme time pressure, experiencing immediate results, solving problems, providing solutions for my clients, and being physically active.
Case Study
Building on the first case study, at age 13 the 8 categories might look something like this:
Age 13 Interests and Inspirations:
1. Senses:
• Smells: The unique aroma of the Hawaiian beaches; salty, fresh, and invigorating.
• Tastes: The exotic taste of fresh Hawaiian pineapple and poke bowls.
• Touches: The texture of the surfboard beneath my feet and the warmth of the sand.
• Sounds: The rhythmic crashing of waves and the distant sound of Hawaiian chants and drums.
• Sights: The breathtaking sunsets over the ocean and the vibrant dance of hula dancers at a luau.
2. People:
• Met a local surfer, Kala, who taught me the basics of surfing. Her free spirit and deep connection with the sea left a lasting impression.
3. Places:
• Waikiki Beach, where I tried surfing for the first time.
• Maui, with its lush landscapes and hidden waterfalls.
4. Intellectual:
• Gained interest in Hawaiian history and legends after a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center.
• Fascinated by the concept of “Aloha spirit” and its deep cultural significance.
5. Experiences:
• Learning to surf against the backdrop of a Hawaiian sunset.
• Attending a traditional luau and understanding the rituals and dances associated with it.
6. Belonging:
• Became an honorary member of Kala’s surf group, where I met locals and experienced a sense of community.
7. Learning:
• Took informal lessons in Hawaiian culture and dance.
• Joined a short-term workshop on marine life conservation during the trip.
8. Work:
• Volunteered for a beach cleanup drive, helping to keep the Hawaiian beaches pristine. Tasks included collecting waste, segregating it, and creating awareness among tourists.
Course Manual 9: Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
Personal Exercise:
As a continuation of your Positive Review, please document what you feel and think have been the 10 most important, exciting, and peaceful times in your life. Admittedly, as we age, the amount and type of events that we might list as a “Big 10” might change, but at this point, go with where you are right now. I completed my first purpose review prior to my marriage and the birth of my two children and now grandchildren. These events are now part of my “Big 10” review. These events become critical clues and examples of when you are living and leading On Purpose and how you can craft your life in the future.
Exercise
Exercise
Exercise
List Your Seven Greatest Passions
The time we have at our disposal every day is elastic; the passions that we feel expand it; those that we force contract it; and habit fills the rest. – Marcel Proust
Passions are emotional anchors and triggers for you. Passions come naturally; these are things that you love to engage in your life.
A blog post from a career developer suggested that we are misguided to follow our passions; the writer said we should focus on our natural skills and that passion will follow our mastery and skill development.
This author is out of touch with what inspires us to greatness and high levels of contributions—passion. Going back to the character trait of perseverance, this trait is really only possible if we are connected to our passions and purpose.
Because I grew up on a dairy farm, I have a high level of knowledge and skills regarding dairy farming, but little passion for it. So based on this author’s advice, I should have just forced myself to have a passion for dairy farming! This philosophy is just absurd.
It is optimum when both our high passions and high skills meet—that becomes a natural “sweet spot”—something we want to pay close attention to.
However, there are times when individuals, at first, seem to have no passion for something, and then a “switch” comes on and they do.
Case Study
For example, my son hated music lessons. He would never practice and his music teachers (as part of traditional teaching methods) actually discouraged his passion for music. For five years, taking music lessons was his least-favorite activity. We knew that he had a gift for music, so we wanted to get him additional training and knowledge, but no matter the teaching style (we tried five different teachers), it was not enjoyable for him.
At an early age (eight), he would hear a tune and be able to immediately play it. Teachers wanted him to read music, which, at eight, he did not enjoy. When he hit 13, we finally stopped paying for music lessons; even the music teachers said it was a waste of money.
But as he matured in his teens, he taught himself acoustic guitar, base guitar, and some drums, and went back to teaching himself keyboard. Tim loved to play but hated to practice.
As you respond by documenting your seven greatest passions, be mindful if whether your past environment has blocked any of your inherent passions.
Exercise
Course Manual 10: Key Word Identification and Tabulation
Your Key Words Leave Clues
Your life leaves clues, so now I am going to ask you to pay attention to these clues.
Before you can do your Key Word exercises, you must have completed all of the Positive Review, Top 10 and Seven Passion exercises. Regardless of what method you have used to document your Positive Review or to complete the recommended assessments, you must convert all of your work into a printed format for this activity.
I highly recommend that you complete these steps without any distractions or multitasking. Turn off all media devices and go to a quiet place that works for you—with no interruptions. Follow the directions, as prescribed, and don’t forget to have fun with this activity.
Key Word Steps:
• Your Key Words Analysis
• Your Key Words Tabulation
• Your Key Words Sequence
• Your Master Key Word List
• Your Key Word Pattern
Exercise
Bring together all of your work from Parts Two and Three of the Quest process in hard copy. Once you have all your hard copies at hand, set aside a place and time, as mentioned above, to do the following.
Notes:
Exercise: Your Key Words Tabulation
Australia – 5
Beach – 15
BBQ – 4
Exciting – 35
People – 45
Potential – 40
Speaking – 50
Together – 2
Travel – 35
And so on …
Exercise: Your Key Words Sequence
Faith – 60
Speaking – 50
People – 45
Traveling – 35
Exciting – 35
And so on …
Exercise: Your Key Words Sequence
Creating Your Master Key Word List
Exercise: Your Key Word Pattern
Course Manual 11: Your Positive Preview
You now have had a chance to document and create your Positive Review. Now it’s time for your Positive Preview. Based on all the self-discovery, insights, and clues your life has left you, please list what you really want to do in each of the following areas in your life. Please do not restrict your list based on your current conditions and situations, but outline and document what you really want and what resonates for you. Further, don’t force yourself to put something on this list because of external pressures or expectations; it must be something that is aligned with your calling, assignment, purpose, goals, needs, and desires and that “fits” you—not someone or something else.
We have provided space on the following pages for each item. If you have more thoughts than space permits, please add additional pages to make sure all your thoughts are captured in your Master Purpose Journal.
It is okay to brainstorm and simply make a list of all the ideas, concepts, and inspirations that come to mind. You can then refine your thoughts once you have that list in place. You will note that there is no section for work; you will document that in the following chapter.
Before you begin: Congratulations on all the work that you have done up to this point—well done! Because of your efforts, you can now intentionally build your life in a way that embraces your gifts, talents, interests, calling, and purpose.
Your Positive Preview:
a. For yourself (things you can do only when alone)
b. For and with your immediate family
c. For and with your relatives
d. For and with your close friends
e. In your learning area: formal and informal
f. In your spiritual life
g. In your public-policy area
h. In your social area
i. In your recreational area
j. In your athletic area (physical health)
k. In your financial portfolio area (apart from your work remuneration)
l. In your community service area (helping others)
Personal Exercise: Crafting Your Ideal Work/Career Life
I want you to think of your Ideal Career in the context of your life and lifestyle. Look beyond just a job, to a calling, an avocation, or an assignment.
One caution: Don’t get caught in the trap that you want to “do nothing.” If you are really living your life On Purpose, doing nothing will not be your ideal life. A few years ago, one of my friends was in a position to retire at age 50. She did so, and admitted to being miserable—she was no longer living her purpose.
Assume you could be paid (rewarded) for whatever you wanted or were called to do each day, week, month, or year.
• What are you doing—tasks, responsibilities, etc.?
• With whom (relationships)?
• Where would you prefer to do this (be specific)?
Take into consideration all that you have journaled. Be thoughtful, mindful, and reflective of your previous work, responsibilities, and roles.
Case Study
One friend listed her “Ideal Career” (at least at this time in her life) as a full-time parent with these items on her list:
• I don’t have to work outside the home in a regular job
• I have at least three children (yes, her husband agreed to this)
• I am able to attend my children’s events because of my flexible schedule
• As a family, we have the resources for private school
She was able to realize her core vision above by starting her own home-based direct-selling business in the health field (another passion of hers). She also had developed a list of how that business or career looked and felt to her.
For some of you, instead of a job, it will be owning or operating your own business, or living a life as an entrepreneur. I shared earlier that the shift is already occurring in the global economy that the traditional long-term job or lifetime career is becoming obsolete, so please consider thinking in these terms.
Please do not prejudge or exclude anything because you don’t think it is practical or possible. Remember, when I was younger, I never would have considered the possibility of becoming a bestselling author.
As a final word before you craft your Ideal Career, ponder these two questions from your Master Life Purpose section:
1. Why are you here?
2. What contributions do you want and are called to make in this world?
Exercise: Your Ideal Career Description
Course Manual 12: Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Personal Exercise: Creating Vision Statements and Goals:
Your Life (Purpose/Quest) Wheel is your roadmap, guideline, and focus for your career/life direction. It is centered on your Master Life Purpose, which is the hub of your Life Wheel. When you complete this section, you will have a structure for checking any person, project, or activity to see if it fits your purpose. If it attracts, consider it. If it detracts, avoid it.
The various segments of your Life Wheel represent your areas in life. ALL segments of your Life Wheel must be completed. Leave nothing blank, or your Purpose Wheel will be unbalanced. As you fill in the components, be as specific as possible. These are statements of intent, philosophy, and high-level objectives in each of the areas.
We do not have a separate work life and a separate personal life; we simply have a life. A balanced life is based on you living and fulfilling your intentional vision in each area.
Please don’t feel overwhelmed by this list. Trust the process. This list is your list. You are creating these directional statements because they are important to you.
First, be as clear as possible about your vision and objectives in each segment. Then set one or two goals for each area. Summarize your work from the previous section into concise statements. Insert your final refined statements into your own Purpose Wheel. Your final statements in each section should be stated in active tense, which means that you never actually fully achieve what you have listed, but that you are in the process of always achieving.
Case Study: Example Summary Vision Statement for Athletics/Physical Health Area:
I live and model a healthy and athletic lifestyle! This includes eating natural organic foods (mostly vegetables) and avoiding all sugars and processed foods. I work out regularly (three times per week) so that my body, energy, and wellness reflect a condition of optimum health. My weight is 175 lbs. and my waist is 32”. I acknowledge that most illness is caused by a poor mindset and lifestyle, so I actively keep up with health and wellness research and continually adjust my lifestyle and activities to reflect these latest findings—all in the Quest that I may achieve optimum health and wellness.
Exercise
![](https://www.appletongreene.com/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2023-10-30-083142-8.png)
Being connected to your Purpose should be invigorating, not burdensome. You are the evaluator of the time and energy required to meet a need or area. You control it.
Exercise: Develop Vision & Goals Statements for Your Purpose Wheel
• Self
• Family
Exercise: Develop Vision Statements And Goals for Your Quest Wheel
• Relatives
• Friends
Exercise: Develop Vision Statements and Goals for Your Quest Wheel
• Learning
• Spiritual
Exercise: Develop Vision Statements and Goals for Your Quest Wheel
• Public Policy
• Social Life
Exercise: Develop Vision Statements and Goals for Your Quest Wheel
• Recreational
• Athletics/Physical Health
Exercise: Develop Vision Statements and Goals for Your Quest Wheel
• Financial Portfolio
• Community Service
Confirming Sharing Your Action Steps
We have covered a lot in this Module 3. I want to encourage that this is not about ever being done but about “doing”. Permit yourself that clarity takes time and attempting to capture your entire life in a 6-10 hour module is not practical however starting is always the first step. In that take all that you have learned in module and we would like you to distill this to micro steps or goals that you can commitment to and share with an accountability partner.
“Baby Steps” became a mainstream term after the movie What About Bob? starring Bill Murray and Richard Dreyfuss. Bill’s psychologist Richard had written a groundbreaking book called Baby Steps. He encouraged his patients to take “Baby Steps” rather than try to correct or conquer the entire problem all at once.
Long before that film, the our purpose process was utilizing that strategy. Transformational Leadership understands the power of this approach.
No matter how small, positive action generates momentum. Momentum increases with the passage of time and propels you toward your new directions. Taking Baby Steps initiates action and eliminates excuses. The steps are painless, simple, and easy. As you take small Action Steps, you feel a sense of accomplishment and results soon follow. That is because you are activating the real you. The real you will not be denied and will not permit you to turn back.
Now, take some time on the following pages to outline Action Steps in every segment of your Life Wheel—something simple and easy for you to fulfill. In the strategies, we mentioned the concept of “Simultaneous Activation.” That means you are obligated to act on everything all at the same time, all now. Harmony and order are possible by using the Baby Steps process.
• Permitting any important interest to remain dormant will cause an imbalance in your Quest Wheel and consequently an imbalance in your life.
• You do not have to spend equal time, money, or energy on each interest—only equal concentration and intensity.
• Trust your Master Life Purpose as you stated it in the hub of your own Quest Wheel; it will provide harmony, balance, and sanity, as well as permit you to simultaneously activate your Life Wheel.
As you start to document your Action Steps, visualize yourself a year from now in each of these areas. Imagine that what you envisioned has actually happened. That should feel inspirational and energizing as you start on the Action Steps (Baby Steps) process. In your Life Wheel exercise, you created vision statements and goals- in this Action Steps exercise, you are documenting the actual activities you need to begin to realize each of your vision and goal statements.
You have your Wheel to guide you strategically, but your Action Steps bring each of these to life. As you achieve and complete each step, you will be required to continually update your list. This list should inspire and not become burdensome; after all, this is your vision, your list, your goals—all which you have stated are important to you. Remember: Baby Steps are far more important and effective than attempting large, overwhelming steps that you will never start, much less complete.
Example:
Your vision is to be connected to, and supportive of, your family. You set an Action Step to call each of your two siblings monthly. That is two phone calls per month. However, what if you had started with a goal of calling them weekly? That is now eight calls a month. Very quickly, if this is a new activity, you could feel overwhelmed, or your family members might wonder what is going on. Consistency and slow increments will help you win your race.
Once you have accomplished an Action Step, make sure you document it as a win and progress.
Your Action Steps
• Self
• Family
• Relatives
• Friends
• Learning
• Spiritual
• Public Policy
• Social Life
• Recreational
• Athletics/Physical Health
• Financial Portfolio
• Community Service
Project Studies
Project Study (Part 1) – Customer Service
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 2) – E-Business
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 3) – Finance
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 4) – Globalization
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 5) – Human Resources
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 6) – Information Technology
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 7) – Legal
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 8) – Management
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 9) – Marketing
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 10) – Production
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 11) – Logistics
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Project Study (Part 12) – Education
The Head of this Department is to provide a detailed report relating to the Character, Beliefs, Values and Purpose Clarification process that has been implemented within their department, together with all key stakeholders, as a result of conducting this workshop, incorporating process: planning; development; implementation; management; and review. Your process should feature the following 12 parts:
01. Ten Critical Character Traits to Become a Transformational Leader!
02. Transformational Leadership Beliefs and Strategies
03. Clarifying What You Believe
04. Beliefs Clarity Exercises
05. What Do You Really Value?
06. What Do You Really Value? Part 2
07. Living On Purpose
08. Your Positive Review
09. Your Three “Big 10s” and Seven Passions
10. Key Word Identification and Tabulation
11. Your Positive Preview
12. Your Life Wheel – Vision and Goals
Please include the results of the initial evaluation and assessment.
Program Benefits
Technology
- Foster creativity
- Ensure compliance
- Enhance skills
- Improve experience
- Reduce footprint
- Streamline processes
- Ensure protection
- Drive advancements
- Embrace change
- Optimize processes
Management
- Nurture leaders
- Foster collaboration
- Retain talent
- Smooth transitions
- Data-driven decisions
- Drive improvement
- Resolve conflicts
- Promote inclusivity
- Enhance EQ
- Set direction
Operations
- Streamline operations
- Optimize logistics
- Ensure consistency
- Mitigate risks
- Decrease expenses
- Measure performance
- Eliminate variability
- Enhance satisfaction
- Promote responsibility
- Drive enhancements
Client Telephone Conference (CTC)
If you have any questions or if you would like to arrange a Client Telephone Conference (CTC) to discuss this particular Unique Consulting Service Proposition (UCSP) in more detail, please CLICK HERE.