Ding! “Pick Up” – The Tommy Davidson Effect

These days “we” want everything to happen quickly, not now but right now!! We would like for everything to operate in a similar manner to our microwaves, from cold to cooked in a manner of minutes. It reminds me of a skit from In Living Color. You remember the one, they were set up in a little hole in the wall diner, and the waitress would take the customer’s order and Tommy Davidson would prepare the order fast as all get out. The thing is, HE NEVER GOT THE ORDER RIGHT….EVER! Someone would say, “my name is rose” and he would make JELLO, ”what’s your best dish” he would make fresh fish!  As leaders on our campus and in our communities, it is imperative that we escape and combat this Tommy Davidson Effect or TDE frame of mind.  When we hear what we want to here, not because we are not listening, but because we are too busy.  Sometimes we are stretched thin working with 7 organizations and other times we are too busy being a leader to take the time to listen to someone not on the exec board.  The TDE takes many forms but the results are always the same, lousy!

Greatness takes time, patience, and effort  Heck forget greatness, just being good takes time, patience, and effort. When we rush our efforts, they often go awry. Failure is not the be all end all. However, when we fail as leaders it is not solely a personal disappointment but one for the group as well. It’s like watching the poll results come in on election night; everyone is happy until their candidate comes out and concedes the race. The people working on the campaign feel the disappointment just as bad as the losing candidate. When we rush through our events, meetings, and lives, we all but concede the race. The TDE can needlessly sap all the energy and motivation from you and your group. It’s strong enough to stop a movement.

How do we beat the TDE and stay on track? SLOW DOWN!! Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals, then don’t be afraid to adjust and reset as you go. One of the most important things a leader can do is take the time to listen to the people. Listen to the issues and concerns of the communities we are serving and address those issues as best as our ability and missions allow us to. Once we get the order right; our vision correct, we are more than halfway to our goals. Take time out this week to get the order right, listen to what the people want and conduct yourself accordingly.

Don’t let your leadership look like this:

100 Thoughts about Trayvon Martin

Reblogged from The Writerz Block:

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1. Catharsis … the discharge of pent-up emotions so as to result in the alleviation of symptoms or the permanent relief of the condition.

2. I can’t seem to shake the feelings I have around the Trayvon Martin tragedy

3. The death of Trayvon Martin is a senseless tragedy.

4. The death probably could have been avoided

5. and culpability probably lies in the middle with both sides needing to be held accountable…

Read more… 1,028 more words

This is a post from a good friend of mine about his thoughts on the Trayvon Martin situation. I know this site is dedicated to leadership, but part of being a leader is how you process various situations. I like this beacause of the content but also because of the format. It allows the writer to illustrate their thought process and invites you to join in with them. I hope you enjoy and look forward to your thoughts as well.

A Little Motivation

Sometimes we just need a pep talk.  No practical advice, no detail oriented game-plan, just a good old fashioned rah-rah speech!  Maybe not a speech, but you get what I’m saying.  Sometimes we simply need to hear words of affirmation and encouragement.  For those of you that need that today, tomorrow, or whenever, here you go:

LEADERSHIP just stands out (source)

 ”A leader is a dealer in HOPE” – Napoleon Bonaparte

only 1 in 100 men is a leader of men…the other 99 follow women

“Success is the ability to go from failure to failure without losing you enthusiasm” – Winston Churchill

When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot and hold on!

“A leader takes people where they want to go, a GREAT leader takes people where they don’t necessarily want to go bu ought to be” – Rosalynn Carter

“The price of Greatness is responsibility” – Winston Churchill

Nothing is impossible, even the word itself spells I’M POSSIBLE.

“I suppose leadership at one time meant muscles; but today it means getting along with people.” – Mahatma Gandhi 

“A good objective of leadership is to help those who are doing poorly to do well and to help those who are doing well to do even better. ” - Jim Rohn

“Effective leadership is not about making speeches or being liked; leadership is defined by results not attributes” – Peter Drucker

“Setbacks are temporary as long as you don’t give up.” – Kevin Ngo

“Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that.” – Norman Vincent Peale.

 Keep pushing and striving for what you need and what you want.  Don’t stop until you make every dream a reality.  Remember:

“Leaders aren’t born, they are made.  And they are made just like anything else, through hard work.  And tha’s the price we’ll have to pay to achieve that goal, or any goal” – Vince Lombardi

 

 

3 Things Every New Student Leader Needs to Know

Check out my interview on CampusTalkRadio.com with Rick Sherrell from ProSpeakersBureau. We discuss the 3 Things Every New Student Leader needs to know.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/btrplayer.swf

Listen to internet radio with CampusTalkRadio on Blog Talk Radio

Be Sure to check out the other great interviews at www.CampusTalkRadio.com

 

Don’t Believe the Hype!!: The Biggest Lie About Student Leadership

Flava Flav (before reality TV got a hold to him) was in a group called Public Enemy. In one of their hit songs, he belted, “don’t believe the hype!” Unfortunately, some of us didn’t listen. Some of us still fall for the Oke-doke and believe the lies about leadership. And not just any lie, but the biggest lie “THEY” ever told about leadership. When I facilitate leadership retreats at different schools, the same question always rears its ugly head and is typically followed by similar if not identical answers. It goes a little something like this:

Student Leader A:  What type of person makes the best leader?

Student Leader B:  the best leaders are type A personalities, outspoken, public speakers, you know the Zack Morris kid.  They are just natural born leaders.

Me:  DON’T BELIEVE THE HYPE!!

The best leaders are Type A personalities or people are natural born leaders. These are the BIGGEST LEADERSHIP LIES ever told!!

Take a moment to think about your ideal leader and you might notice that you’re image is not far from the above students image. It’s because of the image of leadership portrayed in media, from cartoons and comic books to movies and autobiographies. Leadership is normally portrayed as a handsome white male, with muscular features, great speaking ability, and generally loved by all. Even though these characters don’t wear t-shirts that say leader, it’s obvious they’re in charge. They say art imitates life, well sometimes it’s the other way around. Because most of society has become comfortable with this image of leadership, we tend to look toward and vote for people that closely line up with this universal ideal of leadership. It’s no different on our college campus’ and sometimes we get it right, we elect leaders with a passion and ability to get the job done, but don’t believe the hype!!

There is no one type of person that makes for a better leader, unless you want to call accountable a personality trait. There is no such thing as a natural born leader.  We are born with a few abilities and I’m sorry but leadership is not one of them.  Our experiences and conditions shape who we are as people and as leaders. We are the sum of our reactions to life challenges (that needs to be in somebody’s fortune cookie). Just because you are not the most out-going or outspoken person in a group, doesn’t mean you are not best suited to lead.  The qualifications of leadership differ from group to group, but there are some traits great leaders have in common: (here are a few in no particular order)

Passion - not the outwardly showing let me give you a rah-rah speech kind either, but the intrinsic motivation that fuels your drive.

Accountability – most leaders make the most of their ability and the abilities of those around them.  They hold themselves responsible for striving towards excellence and make it easy for others to do the same.

Vision - the ability to look at the present with the future in mind.  Great leaders are able to forecast where their organization needs to go and just like your favorite meteorologist they make it plain so you can adjust accordingly.

Thick-Skinned – great leaders welcome criticism, both constructive and destructive, they take it and roll with it. They sift through it and find the things that can help them and their group and move on. It’s not easy taking on a leadership role and you will never please everyone. If you take every negative about you to heart you’ll be in trouble.

The list of attributes for a great leader is a mile long and being out going or outspoken certainly make the list but they are nowhere near the top.  Leadership is not an adjective. It’s not something that describes who you are. Leadership is a verb, it describes what you do. The next time you think you are too quiet to lead, or too young or any other limiting thought……don’t believe the hype!!

 

This article was featured on Campustalkblog.com ; be sure to check out my other post and interviews!!

You Scream , I Scream, We all Cry for Ice Cream

After speaking at a conference at the University of Missouri, we were talking to a young lady about the workshop. Somehow we got on the topic of what role she played in her organization and her aspirations for the next year. As the young lady began telling us how she didn’t want to hold an office, chair an event, or be at any events that weren’t mandatory, it didn’t take long to figure out she was in the organization because the members got a free trip to this national conference. After clowning her motives for joining, I asked her a simple question, “What is your favorite ice cream?” The girl acted as if I asked did she want a million dollars! She hurriedly squealed out “COOKIES & CREAM!” And not just and cookies and cream either, it had to be the kind made in a small town right outside of Houston. Without any further prodding this now extremely excited young lady began to passionately describe not only the taste of the ice cream but how good she felt while eating it! After her 5 minute keynote, I asked her another simple question, “What’s your favorite thing about your organization?” And as quickly as Thor lent her his hammer, he took it away and her thunder along with it. Under an embarrassed smirk she answered, “I don’t know!?” Immediately, I asked “What’s your favorite thing about yourself?” As she stood there biting her lip and staring at the floor, she lifted her head and formed her mouth to answer. When nothing came out tears began to flow from her eyes. It’s amazing how much we know about the nuances of life compared to how much we know about ourselves.

When we take the time to understand ourselves, we don’t always discover our purpose, but we do discover our passions. We find out what and why we are motivated and with that knowledge we can better set our expectations of ourselves and how/why we interact with others.

Think about how much more you will accomplish when you take the time to find out where your passions lie. Because you understand how you are motivated you will take on roles that cater to your strengths, tackle your areas of improvement, and eliminate time-stealing tasks, roles, and people from your life.

Stop imaging the Greatness that can ensue from unleashing your passion and Start Living in it!!

Passion Distinguishes the difference between Greatness & Success. Where do your Passions Lie?

Diversity: Quickie #4

Take a few seconds and be INSPIRED!! Periodically, I will post a few quickies; theme inspired rants and raves designed to get you to the next level, wherever that is. Feel free to take these quickies and run with it. In the words of Houston based radio station 97.9 The Boxx, “it’s never a bad time for a quickie”

Tolerance is not acceptance #diversity

Judge people on their character not their sexual orientation #diversity

If all men were created equal, it was a woman that did the creating #diversity

No H8 #diversity

Strengthen your community through cultural awareness #diversity

It’s bigger than race #diversity

Assimilation is not #diversity

Instead of searching for similarities, Embrace the differences #diversity

The 22nd century will be more about socio-economics than any other time in the world. #diversity is changing

Who wants to stare a blank canvas? Add some color to your life #diversity

Variety is the spice of life #diversity

Life is like art, we all see something different #diversity

Groupthink can lead to mob mentality. But GREAT MINDS THINK ALIKE…outside the box! #diversity #GMTAINC

healing takes place after understanding #diversity

Racism, sexism, homophobia, elitism, #diversity

You don’t have to like me but you will respect me #diversity

Stereotypes set unfair and unrealistic expectations. Get to know people #diversity

What you mean the class is full? : Managing 4 of the most common back to school issues

 No matter where you are on your college journey, the start of the fall semester is a busy time.  Some of you are celebrating a return to freedom after a summer bid at home with your parents (just know they are just as ready for you to leave), others taking a deep breath before they start college for the first time, and then you have the seniors exhaling because it’s their last time enjoying fall on campus. One common theme in starting a new school year is the unexpected. And today I want to deal with a few of he most common issues faced and how avoid drama in the future.

 

Class is FULL!!:

“What!? You have got to be kidding me, I can’t believe that my class is full, I need this class to graduate or stay on my degree plan.” Calm down, your procrastination may not doom you this time. First look and see if the class is offered at a different time or with a different prof. If that fails, pay a visit to your favorite advisor, in person. Have your story ready because they’ll want to know what took you so long to sign up, with some luck your problem is solved here. For those still facing closed doors it’s time to go straight to the prof, it never hurts to ask (unless your school policy prohibits it). If the prof is feeling generous you’re set. *if the final answer is no and the class is not urgent, use the opportunity to take an elective or double dip in you major/minor reqs – always find the silver lining. In the future, plan ahead of time and sign up for the popular classes first. It’s best to have at least two versions of your schedule prepared in case a class fills before you get to it. 

 LAST YEAR WASN’T SO GREAT, do I belong here?: 

First, breathe! It’s okay, we all make mistakes, heck I had a 1.5 semester and if I can overcome that, you can overcome anything!  Mistakes will make reaching your goals more challenging but not impossible. Take the first few days before classes start and evaluate where you got off track, then WRITE DOWN SEMESTER GOALS FOR:

• Amount of time you will spend studying
• Amount of time you will spend meeting with prof’s in difficult classes
• GPA
• How you will celebrate once you meet your goals

 Next, post these goals in a place where you can see them everyday. It is also a good practice to share your goals with a mentor or peer you feel will hold you accountable to the goals you set.  Having an accountability partner was my greatest asset in college and has helped my tremendously in life.  In the future, remember that you are a student first, the main goal for attending college is to graduate!! Everything should be planned around your academic focus, not the other way around.   

 

MY ROOMMATE SUCKS!!

I think most students have had an “issue” with their roommate at one point or another.  It’s bound to happen so don’t fight it, how you deal with the “issue” should be your focus.  Before you go to your RA and demand a trade, try actually speaking to your roommate.  Whatever the issue is, it can normally be resolved in a win/win situation that requires minimal compromise from both parties involved.  Sleeping habits, boo-thangs (aka significant others), food, and privacy are the most fussed about issues amongst roommates.  Taking the time to actually discuss and fill out the Roommate Contract that most Residence Halls give students will save you time, headaches, and walking in on your roommate playing world of war craft in full armor.  Set guidelines early and review them as often as needed, especially when there is change of life status; i.e. Getting boo’d up, joining a fraternity/sorority, starting a job, etc.  In the future, don’t be quick to room with your best friend and don’t leave your living arrangements up to chance either. If you can, try to room with someone that has a similar major, social life, or study habits.

 

I JUST MISS MY MOMMY … I’m mean I just missed my KNEE :

Being homesick happens, stop fronting and embrace it.  Call your parents and let them know you miss them; they might drop a few dollars in your account. *note to readers: please do not manipulate your parents love for a few dollars in your account, if you are broke get a job!!* Whether you are a freshman or a 6^th year senior, missing your parents is a natural and healthy emotion.  Don’t tell anyone, but I would shed a few tears every time I left to go back to school, me and my family were just like that.  It is important to deal with your emotions in a positive and effective way.  Joining an organization, participating in study groups, and organizing a pot luck, are great ways to get a sense of family and community on your campus. In the future its good to plan your trips home for the semester, not too often but once or twice is just right.  This way you know when you will see them, it’s all mental and this trick works every time!  Also, get you parents to make your favorite meal and then freeze it.  When you are really missing home, thaw it out and eat it in front of your roommate.  It won’t be exactly the same but it will give you a quick fix until your next visit home. 

 

Quickie #3 – Leadership 101

Take a few seconds and be INSPIRED!! Periodically, I will post a few quickies; theme inspired rants and raves designed to get you to the next level, wherever that is. Feel free to take these quickies and run with it. In the words of Houston based radio station 97.9 The Boxx, “it’s never a bad time for a quickie”

Be a servant #leadership101

Be a visionary #leadership101

Lisssteeen (fat joe voice) #leadership101

Don’t let your mouth write a check your actions can’t cash #leadership101

Title shouldn’t come with entitlement #leadership101

 Do what you say you will do #leadership101

 Follow up & follow through #leadership101

 Have a sense of humor and thick skin #leadership101

 Write it down, pass it on #leadership101

 Your performance is a product of your process #leadership101

 The greater your network, the greater your net worth!! #leadership101

 You build a legacy through relationships not programs #leadership101

 Failure sucks! Quitting is not an option! #leadership101

 It’s ok to accept a position you’re not 100% ready for, it gives you room to grow #leadership101

 STUDENT-Leader: please remember you’re a student first #leadership101

 Carry your team in the clutch, they are counting on you #leadership101

 Delegate or alienate you chose #leadership101

 G.R.O.W. you deserve it! #leadership101

Quickies #2 – Greek Wisdom

Take a few seconds and be INSPIRED!! Periodically, I will post a few quickies; theme inspired rants and raves designed to get you to the next level, wherever that is. Feel free to take these quickies and run with it. In the words of Houston based radio station 97.9 The Boxx, “it’s never a bad time for a quickie”

This week’s theme: #greekwisdom

All frat ain’t friends and friends ain’t frat! #greekwisdom

There is a biiiig difference between pledging and rushing #greekwisdom

Don’t let your letters define you #greekwisdom

Stop living on your history and add to it #greekwisdom

Pledging should be a growth process not getting “jumped in” #greekwisdom

Stepping SHOULD take up less than 30% of your chapter’s time #greekwisdom

A H.S. Step team doesn’t prepare you for a fraternity/sorority #greekwisdom

Don’t chose one org b/c another one turned you down! EVERYONE WILL KNOW #greekwisdom

Sororities/Fraternities are service orgs not gangs! #aintnothugsincollege #greekwisdom

It is NOT ok to wear parry everyday all day! #neo’s #greekwisdom

Don’t drop!! Start what you finished! #greekwisdom

If you want the frat more than it wants you… Check your motives! #greekwisdom

If you weren’t cool before the letters, you won’t be cool after them! #greekwisdom

Beware of letter boppers they ain’t nothin but trouble #greekwisdom

What does it profit a man run the yard and run his gpa in the ground? #greekwisdom

GRADUATE! #greekwisdom

Community service doesn’t = collecting can goods at your foam party! #greekwisdom

Tolerate the old heads when they talk about how “different” things were when they were on the yard #greekwisdom

Every chapter has one person that always leans on the shield, ALWAYS!! #brokebruhs #greekwisdom

If everyone, even the bouncers, cops, radio dj’s, & janitors don’t know your social chair they ain’t @txsteve81 or @dontcalltyrone

If the only stories you got about the frat involve pledging, #gothataway #greekwisdom

What #greekwisdom do you have to share?