Chapter 43

(In response to suggestions, I have decided to include definitions to difficult words in parenthesis as opposed to eliminating them. Always remember to embrace learning and seek to expand your vocabulary.)

One must have the inimical experience of belief in falsehood before he can have the thrill of liberation from its stranglehold on his potential. Each of us has a potential to lead. Any wholehearted disinterest in the abrogation of moral indecency should be vigorously overcome if one seeks to aspire to quality leadership. One key to release a world of untapped capability within each of us is to overcome the pathologically stupid insistence to justify undeveloped self-awareness. (inimical = being unpleasant often by reason of hostility / abrogation = formal act of putting an end to)

That being said, I would like now to examine a little closer some ideas related to effective leadership, as this character development is required of everyone in recovery. How can we ask someone a question expressing appreciative inquiry? If we ask every question beginning with a positive presumption that the other person is alive with endless creative and constructive capacity, how can we use this in order to help steer the answers we know they need in order to help them grow?

I have decided to give a quick outline of my tips for success in this chapter. You will notice I suggest a change from the inside-out, rather than the contrary. Here is my short (and simple) list of how to sow seeds of leadership that reap rewards:

1. Let others know of your intentions and invite feedback on how well you are achieving your goals (don’t forget to actually set goals).

2. When you encounter a problem of any sort, move into problem-solving mode instead of looking to blame others for what went wrong.

3. Honor the confidence of another person. Remember that it only takes one incident of passing along confidential information that can result in a permanent loss of trust by the person whose confidence was violated.

4. Maintain a high level of integrity and reliability. Build a reputation for doing what you know is morally right in spite of consequences.

5. Tell the truth, especially on yourself. Let others know how you’re doing and what you’re thinking.

6. Make trust pay, in terms of receiving rewards. Trust needs to be seen as a way of gaining advantage. Never forget that which gets rewarded gets repeated (this applies to everyone and everything).

7. Keep your behavior consistent with your intentions, or “practice what you preach,” and of course help others do the same –without being quick and eager to judge their shortcomings (as this reveals pride and reflects spiritual immaturity).