I am getting close to the finishing touches of my new
leadership book The Kaleidoscope Leader and thought you would enjoy a preview.
As you know a
Kaleidoscope is a circle of mirrors containing loose, colored objects such as bead or pebbles and bits of
glass. As the viewer looks into one end, light entering the
other end creates a colorful pattern, due to the reflection off the mirrors.
The Kaleidoscope
Leader is an individual that encompasses a multitude of leadership techniques
to be successful. As they look within, their methods of leading change due to
the reflection they see in others.
One of these demonstrations is the fact that they enjoy
meeting people that are different from them.
One of the most beautiful things we have on earth is the
fact that nothing is the same. Snowflakes, fingerprints, zebra stripe and DNA
cannot be duplicated. With atoms always moving energy around nothing stays the
same. Change is constant and different
is normal. If you will agree with this, consider why. Think about how boring
our world would be if there were no differences, if flowers looked and smelled
the same, if all dog lovers had only one puppy to choose from, and if there
were only one type of fruit to eat or vegetable to cook. But this isn’t our world. Instead we have
many pets to love, fruits to grow and vegetables to eat. And, we have many
people different from us to enjoy.
The Kaleidoscope Leader understands the uniqueness of the
Universe and how we all connect even when we feel disconnected. They realize
the advantage of surrounding themselves with like-minded and unlike-minded
individuals. They welcome thoughts
different from their own, appreciate another point of view and respect people that
disagree with them. They relish in the
differences considering an alternative way of thinking as exciting. They are curious
as to how someone processes information different than their method. They are genuinely interested in learning new
customs and traditions. They are not
threatened by diverse thinking. They are respectful of those who dress, speak
and act in ways that are dissimilar to themselves.
As they move through the process of seeking out all types of
people, they maintain a clear understanding of their core beliefs. They will consider alternative views and may
even adapt one or two. But, they have the strength and will power to stay firm
when their beliefs cannot be altered.
This is when they will agree to disagree. They will accept and respect those
that are different and yet realize the importance of staying true to
themselves.
