Ever pondered the “reasons why we quit” on our journey to achieving goals? Jim delves into the core challenges that often lead to the abandonment of aspirations. In this insightful exploration, discover the hidden pitfalls that hinder progress and learn how to overcome them. “Amateurs focus on outcomes. Professionals focus on process.” – Dr. Eric Potterat  We all have goals. We may or may not write them down but we think about them. Let’s be real. Most of our goals are really more like wishes. We wish we were healthier. We wish we had more money. Or we wish we loved what we do. We wish our relationships were stronger. We wish we earned this degree or received that promotion. They are wishes because we don’t do anything about them. How do you transform a wish into a goal and a goal into an accomplishment? The answer is not glamorous. Nor

In the era of unprecedented comforts and escalating demands, the phrase “Mental Illness” echoes louder than ever. Have you ever pondered the connection between our modern luxuries and the apparent decline in mental resilience? Read along to unravel this thought-provoking journey as we explore the subtle shifts in our lifestyles and their profound impact on our collective mental well-being. I can do all this through Him who gives me strength – The Apostle Paul My sister is an amazing woman. She is also a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Her life’s journey would inspire even those without a detectable pulse but I’ll save that story for another time. I asked her why the phrase “Mental Illness” is now commonplace. It seems to me that it is on the rise or we are simply more aware. Perhaps both could be true? Mental Illness: A lack of mental resilience? She paused and pensively confessed

Erin Porteous is the CEO of The Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Denver. I have enjoyed working with her over the past few years. She is a down-to-earth person who strives to provide excellent leadership to her amazing organization. I asked her to share her closely held or core leadership values. The lenses she looks through evaluating her leadership as well as shaping the culture of her team and organization. I believe her work is worth the read. Four Values: Hard work, Humility, Humor and Honesty  As leaders, we all have core values that we live by. Intentional leaders align both personal and professional values to make a succinct focus for anchoring priorities and ensuring consistency across all facets of their lives. The highest caliber of leaders consistently demonstrate a commitment to values even when no one is around. This is called integrity. The interesting part is these micro-actions

In the dynamic world of leadership, achieving excellence requires a deliberate approach. So if you’re looking to enhance your leadership abilities and drive better results, you’re in the right place. This article unveils the three steps to elevate leadership that can help you gain a higher vantage point, make strategic and tactical moves, and accomplish your primary goals. Join us on this journey as we delve into the essential principles that set good leaders apart from the best, guiding you toward effective leadership that yields success. So.. what does it mean to elevate your leadership and how is it done? Elevate: To elevate your leadership is to increase your ability to drive results. It is to create a higher vantage point and therefore to see the most strategic and tactical moves toward winning. Winning is about accomplishing your chief aim – your one major goal. Kids learn how to dribble

In the fast-paced world of leadership, the pursuit of success often takes center stage. But amid the hustle and ambition, a critical facet of our lives often gets overlooked – the success of our marriages. This article delves into the profound connection between leadership and marriage success, shedding light on the strategies that can transform not only your career but also your most cherished relationships. Join us on a journey to discover the harmony that exists when leadership and love thrive in unison. Drink water from your own well – share your love only with your wife. Why spill the water of your springs in the streets, having sex with just anyone? Proverbs 5:15-16, NLT Leading something other than your home has a way of drawing your affections from your marriage into other places. Call it stress, growing apart, temptation, or whatever you like. But here’s the truth, many leaders,

Effective leadership hinges on your ability to deliver impactful presentations that leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re addressing your team, investors, or stakeholders, the art of preparing your presentation effectively in 3 steps can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore a streamlined process that simplifies the path to presentation success. Read on to uncover the secrets to leadership that motivates, remains transparent, and consistently delivers dynamic presentations. A good leader motivates, doesn’t mislead, doesn’t exploit. Proverbs 16:10 explained You’re a leader and you are preparing a presentation to your team, investors, and stakeholders. Oh, and you only have an hour to prepare! I assume you are knowledgeable about the facts of your situation and you know the direction you want to go. Now, you have to organize your thoughts and present them in a positive and convincing manner. Here’s how. Preparing your Presentation Effectively in 3 steps

In a world filled with endless pursuits and constant challenges, there’s a timeless aspiration that often gets overlooked – the desire to live a life that’s not only purposeful but also deeply meaningful. This quest transcends the boundaries of religion, appealing to those who seek a path toward personal growth, inner peace, and a greater sense of purpose. “Living Godly and Being Friends with God” is not just a concept confined to the sacred; it’s a universal journey towards unlocking the extraordinary potential within each of us. In this article, we will delve into the profound wisdom behind living godly and explore how it can transform your life in ways you never imagined. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, enlightenment, and a deeper connection with the world around you. …he offers his friendship to the godly. Proverbs 3:32, NLT I don’t hear the word godly used much

In the journey of faith and personal development, there are moments when we face the stern hand of correction and discipline. In this Monday Moments blog post, we’ll explore the concept of God’s discipline and correction, drawing insights from Jim’s personal experiences and biblical teachings. So, let’s delve into this essential aspect of our spiritual journey – a divine lifeline designed to shape our character and lead us toward maturity. “My child, don’t reject the Lord’s discipline, and don’t be upset when he corrects you. For the Lord corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭11‬-‭12‬ ‭NLT‬‬ I have what I now consider a funny recollection of some childhood experiences with those in authority over me.  I think of Mrs. Body, my fourth-grade teacher. Grabbing me by the ear and leading me to the principal’s office while I was bleeding from

In a world filled with constant competition and the pursuit of success, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. This article delves into the profound concept of “Faith-Based Excellence” and how it can transform your life. Read on to explore the art of living a life that resonates with faith, excellence, and the profound belief that your best efforts are offerings to a higher purpose. Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Then he will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine. Proverbs 3:9-10, NLT My family has a competitive personality. We love games and contests. One of our family slogans goes like this: If you’re not first, you’re last. It’s also the name of our football fantasy league. There’s nothing like first place! We appreciate effort and we applaud achievements. Isn’t this what

Loyalty and kindness are the cornerstone of strong connections, whether within families, friendships, or partnerships. Yet, being loyal isn’t always easy. This blog post will teach you how to build loyalty in relationships, fostering trust, and enduring connections. Discover the art of loyalty and kindness, and how they can enrich your character and relationships, ultimately earning favor in the eyes of both God and humanity. Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation. – Proverbs 3:3-4, NLT Marriage, family, friends, neighbors, team members, and partnerships have written, implied, or assumed allegiances. As citizens, we actively pledge loyalty to our country. As Christians, we commit to follow the way of Christ. We offer loyalty and kindness as the glue that keeps

In the game of life, success often hinges on the choices we make. In this blog post, Jim shares some wisdom in decision-making and how these simple yet profound principles can not only elevate our personal lives but also enhance our leadership and work endeavors. So, let’s embark on this journey of uncovering the wisdom within our choices and learning how to navigate life’s complexities with confidence and purpose. Wise choices will watch over you. Proverbs 2:11, NLT If you like sports, you hear it all the time. “We are going to approach this season one game at a time.” If you listen to the coaches, it’s all about becoming excellent in the basics – blocking and tackling. Practice the fundamentals of the game. One pitch at a time. If you play golf, it’s the same thing. One shot at a time. These are common in sports phraseology. They seem

In a world where the pursuit of wealth can often lead to emptiness, the journey of overcoming greed emerges as a transformative path toward a more fulfilling and purpose-driven life. Join us as we delve into powerful insights and strategies that can liberate us from the clutches of excessive desire and open doors to a life abundant with gratitude, generosity, and genuine fulfillment. Discover how to break free from the chains of greed and embrace a more meaningful existence. Such is the fate of all who are greedy for money; it robs them of life. Proverbs 1:19, NLT I know people who are really good at making money, I know generous people, I know frugal people. I know greedy people and I bet you do too. Making money is a skill. In some cases, it seems to be a talent. Generosity is the same. Some have developed it through discipline

In the dynamic landscape of success and leadership, one concept stands unwaveringly: effective leadership through discipline. As we delve into the realms of achievement and lasting impact, we uncover the hidden power that propels leaders to new heights. Join us on a journey to understand how the unassuming yet indispensable trait of discipline can transform your approach to leadership, unlocking doors to unparalleled success. Their purpose [Proverbs of Solomon] is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help do what is right, just, and fair. Proverbs 1:3, NLT Leaders seek wisdom. They work to transform busyness into effectiveness. Activity into production. Fog into focus. Bad into good. Good into great. Transformation does not happen overnight. It takes time and discipline. Too many underestimate what it takes to live healthy lives and to lead others. To serve as an effective leader and to sustain long-term success requires discipline

In the midst of life’s uncertainties and challenges, one profound source of resilience and inner power is acquiring strength by trusting God. Explore how unwavering faith can be your anchor in the storm of anxiety and doubt, guiding you towards a path of serenity and purpose. Read on to learn more. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.” ‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3‬:‭5‬-‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬ Do you sometimes struggle with worry and anxiety? Me too. Yet to the anxious, the proverb above challenges us to change our focus and our pursuits. To take a minute and examine what’s important. To consider what matters. To seek the right counsel. The final difference between one leader and another is about how much pressure he can endure. When a leader is strong, their

In a world filled with uncertainties and challenges, the call to trust God for the long term resonates beyond age and circumstance. Explore the wisdom that transforms today’s troubles into tomorrow’s triumphs, and learn to shift focus from doubt to hope. In this blog, let’s uncover the profound meaning of trusting God for the long haul and pave a path of resilience and purpose.   Trust in the Lord, and do good; dwell in the land and befriend faithfulness. Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act. Psalm 37:3-5 There are six points I discuss when speaking to young leaders. The sixth is TRUST GOD FOR THE LONG TERM.  This exhortation is not just for young leaders, is it? Whenever I am tempted to believe in my strength or the