Being A World Changer
As you know, I am currently reading six books conceived and curated by Blake Crouch called Forward. I’ve already blogged about his first two questions that drove the series in The Unforeseen Twists & Turns and Rolling The Dice of Uncertainty. Now while reading a fourth awesome book in the series by Veronica Roth, Ark, I am contemplating the third and most difficult driving question, “How does it feel to change the world” (Crouch, 2019)? When I first started thinking about this question my mind went to individuals who had made big changes in the world that we could easily point to. You know…the ones monuments have been built to honor. It’s important to remember, however, that changing the world doesn’t always mean making grand or global changes. Even small actions can have a ripple effect and create positive change. Those ripples can and will eventually turn into change that might one day have a global impact.
When we find purpose in what we do it allows us to pursue significance over success in our chosen fields going beyond personal benefit in preparation for our world-changing. We may know if we are changing the world by reflecting on the impact our actions have on others, the solutions or innovations brought to problems, and positive influence we have on those around us.
Too many people believe that they have no power and can’t make a difference in this world. Not true! We can all make a difference in our own way. By refusing the status quo, thinking and dreaming big we can help create the environment for changing the world. We must all lead from where we are. All of us have unique talents, skills, and expertise that we need to share. Our willingness to share plays a crucial role in changing the world for the better by spreading ideas, fostering collaboration, and building a supportive community. It allows us to collectively tackle challenges, inspire others, and create a ripple effect of positive change.
Sharing can put us in a better position to change the world for the better in several ways. Firstly, when we share our ideas, knowledge, and resources with others, it can inspire and empower them to take action and make positive changes themselves. By sharing our insights and experiences, we can help others learn from our successes and failures, and encourage them to pursue their own ideas and initiatives.
Secondly, sharing allows for collaboration and collective problem-solving. When we work together and share our different perspectives and expertise, we can come up with more innovative and effective solutions to complex problems. By pooling our resources and working towards a common goal, we can achieve greater impact and change.
Furthermore, sharing fosters a sense of community and interconnectedness. When we share our time, kindness, and support with others, we create stronger bonds and build a network of like-minded individuals who are motivated to create positive change. This sense of community can provide the necessary support and encouragement to sustain our efforts and amplify our impact.
So, how does it feel to change the world? It feels like using our purpose to lead from where we are by using our purpose to make ripples by challenging the status quo, thinking and dreaming big, and sharing ourself with the world.
Framing The Causes
The term “causality” has always given me pause. First, I believe the term is overused in research. Causality assumes that the value of an interdependent variable is the reason for the value of a dependent variable. Social science and education research is very interested in making causal claims. This causal inference remains especially difficult to prove. My problem with claims of causality are the multiple potential explanations that always exist. This does not mean I don’t think causality is important to science. The best research uses methods for getting to causality. When statistically significant causality is proven it is very valuable. As I stated earlier, however, I just believe we are, at times, too quick to claim causality.
It is also interesting to me that causality is a topic debated in theology. In fact, in The Christian In The World, C.S. Lewis credits Sir Arthur Eddington with saying, “Each event comes from another event.” From the reading I believe Lewis struggled with this as an absolute philosophy and I always have too. Everything in life is too complex for that. Causality at face value means that every event or occurrence is caused by a preceding event or set of events. In other words, there a chain of cause and effect in the world, where one event leads to another, and so on. I believe we need to recognize the interconnectedness and continuity of events in our lives and in the world around us. While there may be provable causalities in some cases, we must remember there may be multiple contributing factors.
Rolling The Dice of Uncertainty
I am reading a great collaboration of six books conceived and curated by Blake Crouch called Forward. Blake and five other authors, Veronica Roth, N.K. Jemison, Amor Towles, Paul Tremblay, and Andy Weir, wrote the six books. I wrote about one of the driving questions used as inspiration for the series yesterday in The Unforeseen Twists & Turns. The first question was, “How does anyone know at the moment of discovery where their work will ultimately lead” (Crouch, 2019)? Now I’m tackling the second question, “Should we let that uncertainty stop forward momentum, or do we roll the dice and let the chips fall where they may” (Crouch, 2019)?
As leaders, it’s important to embrace the uncertainty that comes with the creative process. While we are tempted to let the fear of the unknown hold us back, taking calculated risks and being open to new possibilities can lead to breakthroughs and unexpected success. It’s about finding a balance between being proactive in moving forward and being adaptable to changing circumstances. By staying curious, learning from failures, and remaining open to feedback, we can navigate through uncertainty and make informed decisions. Ultimately, we have to decide how much risk we are comfortable with, but we must remember that great achievements often come from stepping outside of our comfort zones.
The Unforeseen Twists & Turns
I love collaboration and I believe some of the best examples of how to do this well lie with creative performing artists and writers. We are in a time where musicians collaborate on songs and perform together. These turn out to be incredible collective products. In my own world of having a professional service firm, I am always looking for potential collaborations or cross-branding opportunities. I am reading a collaboration of books conceived and curated by Blake Crouch. Blake brought together five other authors, Veronica Roth, N.K. Jemison, Amor Towles, Paul Tremblay, and Andy Weir, to write, along with himself, six books. In a note from the curator to the Forward collection, Blake Crouch tells us the three driving questions he posed to this collaboration of authors to write about. Here are the three questions (Crouch, 2019):
1. “How does anyone know at the moment of discovery where their work will ultimately lead?”
2. “Should we let that uncertainty stop forward momentum, or do we roll the dice and let the chips fall where they may?”
3. “How does it feel to change the world?”
Having just finished Towles’ You Have Arrived At Your Destination and Weir’s Randomize, I can already tell you this collaboration was a success. Those three questions Couch posed to the authors have continued to cause me to reflect however. Therefore, the reason for today’s post and probably a couple of other future posts. Pondering the question “How does anyone know at the moment of discovery where their work will ultimately lead?” helps us contemplate and begin to understand the uncertainty and fluidity of artistic creation, promotes openness and self-reflection, and encourages us to embrace the unknown in our innovative and creative journeys. We are reminded that, no matter how well we plan or strategize, there are always unforeseen twists and turns along the way.
Asking this question encourages us, as leaders, to embrace uncertainty and remain flexible in our approach – one of the big advantages of collaboration. It challenges us to let go of rigid expectations and instead focus on exploring new possibilities and adapting to changing circumstances. By acknowledging that the ultimate outcome of our work may be unknown, leaders can foster a culture of innovation, experimentation, and learning.
Moreover, asking this question promotes self-reflection and encourages leaders to question our assumptions and biases. It challenges us to critically evaluate our own work and consider alternative perspectives and approaches. This can lead to greater creativity, as well as a deeper understanding of ourself and the world.
The Artwork of Stories & Relationships
I love the opportunities that chance encounters bring for making new and valuable connections. Last week as we were going into Sushi Hana in Savannah, Georgia for lunch, I noticed an artist painting a streetscape in front of the restaurant. Those of you who know me well, know I can’t resist watching an artist practice their craft. He was just getting started, but I could tell this painting was going to be special (like I really know anything about it). The artist and I exchanged hellos and I told him I liked his work. My family and I went into Sushi Hana’s and ordered and I told them I had to go back out and meet the artist. I met Jeffrey Baumgartner, who coincidentally is from Chicago with Indiana connections. Small world! We immediately connected and he informed me it would take about three hours to complete. I told him I wanted to buy the painting. Then my wife came out and told me I needed to come in and eat. Imagine that!
After lunch I was back out to check the progress of “my” painting. It was coming along nicely and Jeffrey and I talked some more and made a plan for me to call him and 3:00 and see where he was on completing the painting. So, at exactly 3:00 as I stood along the Savannah River, I called my new artist friend back to see how my painting looked. He was just painting his signature on it as I called. Jeffrey told me it looked awesome. So I left my family to explore and climbed those old uneven steps up from River Street with some newfound energy and enthusiasm. Over to Broughton Street to see this exquisite piece of artwork (see photo). It was wonderful and I wanted it.
We agreed on a price then proceeded to talk, laugh, and share stories. Two students from the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) came by who had watched and talked to Jeffrey earlier. He proceeded to give them an art, business, and leadership experience like no college professor could give. This artist was living it. He had driven his van (that he says is a “VanGo,” pun intended) to Savannah, set up in a campground, and was painting a new streetscape every day for a living. If that isn’t a real world and relevant context for teaching I don’t know what is. Not only was he schooling these young and aspiring artists, he was forming relationships. As a believer and teacher of building relationships as the most important leadership trait, I was watching and learning. Jeffrey was a master at it.
As I was complimenting him on his relationship-building prowess he told me that he came from the theater. “It’s all about the story, Byron,” he told me. So true; it is all about the story. I had gotten my painting, made new friends in Jeffrey and the students, and expanding my knowledge in leadership and creating an ideal customer experience. Jeffrey’s ability to connect had made the experience of buying this painting memorable and with a tremendous story.
Being able to build relationships is an important trait to have developed for a painter selling paintings, or any leader for that manner, because it helps in establishing trust and rapport with potential buyers. By building relationships, we can understand the preferences and tastes of our customers, tailor their artworks accordingly, and creating a personalized experience for the buyers. This lesson can also be transferred to all of us as leaders. We are creating experiences for those we serve.
Additionally, building relationships allowed Jeffrey to form a network of loyal clients who most likely will provide repeat business and recommend the artist to others. In Jeffrey’s case, he has a loyal following. This can help in expanding the reach and recognition of the painter’s work.
Moreover, through building relationships, we can also receive feedback and constructive criticism, which can be valuable for growth and improvement. By understanding the needs and desires of our clients and clients and those we serve, can better fulfill their expectations and create artworks that resonate with them.
Overall, being able to build relationships enables a painter to connect with their audience on a deeper level, promote their work effectively, and establish a strong presence in the art market.
Leading With Collective Aspirations
I had the honor of watching the sunrise and having breakfast at the top of Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa yesterday morning. It was absolutely breathtaking. Plus getting to learn about the dream and building of the Burj Khalifa was amazing. The Burj Khalifa is such a great story because it represents human innovation, engineering marvel, and the ability to push boundaries. It is the tallest building in the world, standing at a height of 828 meters (2,716 feet) with 163 floors. The construction of the Burj Khalifa was massive undertaking that required cutting-edge technology, advanced engineering techniques, and a highly skilled workforce.
I loved the words and meaning in the “I am Burj Khalifa” poem. This is projected on one of the walls as visitors enter. These words really describe great leadership. See what you think:
“I am the power that lifts the world’s head proudly skywards, surpassing limits and expectations.
Rising gracefully from the desert and honouring the city with a new glow. I am an extraordinary union of engineering and art, with every detail carefully considered and beautifully crafted.
I am the life force of collective aspirations and the aesthetic union of many cultures. I stimulate dreams, stir emotions and awaken creativity.
I am the magnet that attracts the wide-eyed tourist, eagerly catching their postcard moment, the centre for the world’s finest shopping, dining and entertainment and home for the world’s elite.
I am the heart of the city and its people; the marker that defines Emaar’s ambition and Dubai’s shining dream. More than just a moment in time, I define moments for future generations.
I am Burj Khalifa.”
The building’s design was inspired by traditional Islamic architecture, with a distinctive spiral shape that resembles a desert flower. The construction process involved overcoming numerous challenges, such as extreme temperatures, strong winds, and the need for a strong foundation to support the immense height.
The Burj Khalifa has become an iconic symbol of Dubai and showcases the city’s ambition and progress. It has attracted millions of visitors from around the world who come to admire its beauty and experience its breathtaking views from the observation deck. The building also houses luxury residences, hotels, offices, and entertainment facilities, making it a versatile and dynamic structure.
Overall, the Burj Khalifa represents human ingenuity, architectural excellence, and the ability to achieve the seemingly impossible. Its story inspires people to dream big and strive for greatness.
Leading By Symposium
While doing research for a book I’m writing I came across The Symposium by Plato. The research I am doing was related to “love” in the sense that I am a big proponent of leaders loving those they serve. And, since I believe everyone is a leader; we should all love everyone. I’m trying to articulate how to do that as a leader in the work I am doing. Anyway, The Symposium is Plato dialoging the speeches taking place at an ancient Athenian feast. Oh, to go back to 380B.C. and take part in that symposium. It was the whole idea of the symposium that prompted my post this morning. The symposium allowed nuanced and super-exploratory environments for deep intellectual discussion. Really, this is the format I strive to create with each of my leadership development gatherings.
What if all our discussions were like those of Socrates and Plato?
Leaders (all of us) can learn from having symposiums like Plato and Socrates in several ways. Firstly, symposiums provide a platform for open and intellectual discussions, allowing leaders to explore different perspectives and gain new insights. This can lead to more informed decision-making and the development of innovative solutions to complex problems.
Additionally, I love creating a safe place for the exchange of ideas among gathering participants. Leaders can benefit from engaging in dialogue with others who have diverse backgrounds and expertise, as this can challenge our own assumptions and broaden our understanding of various issues.
Furthermore, symposiums in their truest form, foster a collaborative and inclusive environment, where everyone’s opinions are respected and valued. This encourages teamwork and encourages leaders to listen to different viewpoints, promoting effective communication and fostering a sense of unity among participants.
Can’t you just imagine Phaedrus, Pausanias, Aristophanes, and Socrates, who all gave speeches at that Athenian feast, sharing their philosophies on love? Imagine that opportunity for leaders to network and build relationships with other influential individuals in their field. This can lead to valuable connections and collaborations that can enhance their leadership abilities and create opportunities for growth and development. It gives me goosebumps!
What is striking to me is how relevant all the dialogues still are today in one way or another. Are you hosting symposiums like Plato and Socrates that can help leaders expand their knowledge, improve their decision-making skills, foster collaboration, and build meaningful relationships within their communities?
A Honey Of A Deal For Being Interested In Learning
I remember being told that being interested makes us interesting. I believe this applies to being curious as well. Yesterday, I spent time at the Savannah Bee Company learning about honeybees, beekeeping, education, stewardship, and love. It was a reminder of just how curious and interested I get about a great number of subjects. Some have even called me eclectic. Guilty! Being interested in something can make us more interesting When we have a genuine passion for a subject or topic, it shows in our conversations and interactions with others. It can make us more engaging and knowledgeable, and can also spark curiosity and interest in those around you.
Yesterday, working with honeybees, I was reminded why I am such a believer in using real world and relevant contexts for learning. The Bee Cause Project introduces children to the science of bees and giving them a hands-on connection between these magnificent pollinators and their own lives. Founder and CEO, Ted Dennard is committed to the mission of building the buzz for integrating bees into education. By incorporating honeybee-related activities into STEAM (science, technology, engineering, agriculture/arts, and math) education, students not only learn important scientific principles but also develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis. Additionally, they gain an appreciation for the natural world and a sense of responsibility towards sustainable practices.
It was exciting to take a deeper dive into learning about the, ecology, life cycle of bees, their and environmental behavior, and science. I was able to observe the bee’s hive and students in schools who are a part of The Bee Cause Project can also observe their own beehive and the bee’s role in pollination. And, by the way, produce a pretty sweet (honey) product in the process of learning. A relevant context at its best.
And, I can’t leave out the importance of Agriculture: honeybees are essential for pollinating crops, making them crucial to agriculture. By learning about beekeeping, students gain insight into agricultural practices and the importance of sustainable food production.
Being interested in STEAM subjects, for example, can lead to fascinating discussions and opportunities to share ideas and knowledge with others. So, integrating honeybee-related activities into the curriculum, is a great way educators can help students develop an interest in STEAM subjects while also promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices. So, yes, being interested can definitely make you more interesting.
Social Courtesy Part 2
Yesterday, inspired by Dr. Joseph Michelli’s great video “What If More People Returned Their Grocery Carts?”, I wrote Social Courtesy. In that post I promised a part two today, so here it is. As I watched two ships passing this morning I was reminded not to be like those characterized by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. We need enhanced relationships that are more than just speaking in passing. We need deep conversations and actions, like returning our carts, that lead to us caring for one another. Everything we do affects everyone else in some way.
“Ships that pass in the night, and speak each other in passing, only a signal shown, and a distant voice in the darkness; So on the ocean of life, we pass and speak one another, only a look and a voice, then darkness again and a silence.” ~ Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Practicing social courtesy can greatly improve our interactions and the overall well-being of society. When we treat others with respect, kindness, and consideration, it creates a positive and harmonious environment. Here are some reasons why the world would be a better place if we all practiced social courtesy:
- Enhanced Relationships: Social courtesy promotes better communication and understanding between individuals. It fosters empathy, patience, and active listening, which are essential for building strong and meaningful relationships.
- Reduced Conflict: By practicing social courtesy, we can minimize misunderstandings, conflicts, and unnecessary arguments. It helps us navigate differences and disagreements with grace and understanding, leading to more peaceful resolutions.
- Improved Mental Health: Social courtesy contributes to improved mental well-being for both ourselves and others. Treating others with kindness and empathy creates a supportive and positive atmosphere, reducing stress and promoting a sense of belonging.
- Increased Cooperation: When people practice social courtesy, it encourages cooperation and teamwork. By valuing the opinions and ideas of others, we foster an inclusive environment where collaboration and innovation can flourish.
- Positive Impact on Society: Social courtesy sets a positive example for others to follow. It creates a ripple effect, inspiring kindness, compassion, and good manners in others. Small acts of courtesy can have a big impact on creating a more inclusive and caring society.
- Respectful Diversity: Practicing social courtesy allows us to appreciate and celebrate the diversity of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives. By fostering an inclusive environment, we can learn from each other, grow together, and create a more harmonious global community.
In summary, embracing social courtesy promotes healthy and positive interactions, reduces conflict, improves mental well-being, encourages cooperation, creates a positive impact on society, and cultivates respect for diversity. Together, these factors contribute to making the world a better and more empathetic place to live.
Social Courtesy
My friend and great customer experience expert (and you all know I do not use the term “expert” lightly), Dr. Joseph Michelli, recently did a video “What If More People Returned Their Grocery Carts?” You need to watch it – it is great and will make you think. By the way, I do that and the businesses always seem pleasantly surprised when I bring the cart back in. My wife always grabs a cart in the parking lot when she is going into the store. I am spending my morning study time contemplating about “social courtesy”. The term “social courtesy” has been used for a long time to refer to the practice of showing politeness, respect, and consideration towards others in social situations. In my most recent course work with The University of Oxford Saïd Business School on leading Professional Service Firms we spent quite a bit of time contemplating the customer experience, so this was top of mind to me. I am working very hard to keep that customer experience top of mind, always. I’ve gathered some reflections here this morning and will have a part two tomorrow.
Practicing social courtesy improves the customer experience in several ways. Firstly, it creates a positive and welcoming atmosphere, making customers feel valued and appreciated. This can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
Secondly, social courtesy helps to build trust and rapport between customers and businesses. When customers feel respected and treated well, they are more likely to trust the company and its products or services.
Additionally, practicing social courtesy can help resolve conflicts or issues in a more constructive manner. By approaching situations with empathy, understanding, and clear communication, both parties can work towards finding a mutually beneficial resolution.
Overall, social courtesy plays a crucial role in creating a pleasant and enjoyable customer experience, fostering positive relationships, and promoting a harmonious environment for all involved. In other words, if we all worked harder at it the world just might be a better place. Thanks Joseph for the reminder.
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