I recently did a speaking event for the Junior League of Raleigh about leadership. It was a topic I had never spoken on, but one that really inspired me. I titled the speech "Lead with Intention" because I based it on many of the principals I talk about in my book "Live with Intention." Here are what I am now calling the 4 A's of Leaders that Lead with Intention:
1. Leaders that Lead with Intention are AWARE!
They know when to put on the brakes and assess what's working and not working in their organization. They know when to let go of the old and make room for the new.
2. Leaders that Lead with Intention are APPRECIATIVE!
They spend their time focusing on the good in their organization and authentically praising the people around them. As they appreciate all of the positives, they get more positives to appreciate!
3. Leaders that Lead with Intention are ALLOWING!
By that I mean they allow themselves to see the unseen, to think big and to see a clear vision for the future. They inspire others by talking about their intentions and create a team that is working toward a common cause. As Einstein said, "Imagination is more important than knowledge!"
4. Leaders that Lead with Intention are AUTHENTIC!
They reveal their weaknesses and are honest about where they are in the here and now, not as an excuse for why they aren't where they want to be, but as a definition of where they are starting from. They share their successes and their shortcomings in a way that is empowering and brings the team together.
Leading with intention and living with intention are one in the same because they both focus on creating a joyful, deliberate life experience that benefits all involved.
