Sunday, December 20, 2009

The Message of Leadership

I wrote the Message of Leadership as an inspirational book for leaders of all kinds. It contains 31 daily readings on different topics inspired by the 31 chapters of the ancient book of Proverbs which was written by the wisest man who ever lived.

My goal was to combine these proverbs with pithy personal insights and stories that will make a leader think about the way they exert their gift of leadership on those around them. It is suitable as a gift for those graduating from school, leaders in government, teachers, business associates, moms or anyone who leads others or aspires to do so. I originally intended it as a special way to say thanks to those who give of themselves for our benefit.

Not only will you get my inspirational thoughts, but you will also receive the entire book of Proverbs as translated by Eugene Peterson in "The Message." The volume comes either in the regular paperback edition or a special first edition cover and I will gladly autograph it to you upon request. This book is available directly from: http://www.danielsouthern.com/products.html

I hope this little book of insights will be a blessing to you.

Wednesday, December 16, 2009

Who is the DSLG Team?

I am often asked, "How can I be a part of the Daniel Southern Leadership Group (DSLG) Team?"

Anyone can be part of our movement to lift the standard of business practice and live a life of integrity. We believe that everything we do flows out of the personal life of the individual. If we guard our habits and behavior scrupulously, even when no one is watching, we will be protecting not only the essence of who we are, but the by-products of our life. This is a commitment which includes everything we do through our personal, business and civic involvement. If you agree with this philosophy, you may qualify as a member of the DSLG Team but at different levels of involvement.

To be a trainer, speaker, coach or consultant for DSLG, you must have at least three things going for you:

1. You must have already accomplished things in your professional life that position you as a model and standard in your field of endeavor for others to emulate; In other words, you must enjoy a certain amount of celebrity in your chosen field of endeavor.

2. You must be able to share your story effectively with others; This includes having published material we can use to promulgate your message and the ability to effectively articulate your message to a live audience.

3. You must speak from a life that demonstrates the integrity of your message.

We call these select few individuals - DSLG Spokespersons.

Although we may have only a few spokespersons, everyone is invited to be a member of our Team by becoming a DSLG Insider or a member of the Leadership Circle with whom we share our principals and encouragement for a subscription fee. Or you might just want to watch what we are doing and operate by the principles we espouse - it's up to you! Any of these various levels of involvement qualify you to be a DSLG Team Member.

Whatever the level of your participation, we encourage you to strive for excellence and we welcome you aboard! Together through commitment and dedication to our core values, we can make a difference in our world.

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Give or Take?

In almost 35 years of experience in the workplace, I have found that it is unusual to find businesses or individuals who give as much as they take. It is understandable that this occurs since we are all scrambling for resources, especially in this current economic environment, but the result will be to brand ourselves as “takers” and not “givers.”

It is far too easy to slip into a mindset of being the only one who has needs and to justify our attitude by the fact that we are doing something important.

To combat this sense of selfishness, I have made it a deliberate goal to give back as often as I can. I attempt to do this, not necessarily in kind, but from what I have. For example, if I am raising money, it is not necessary for me to give the donor an expensive gift in appreciation. But I can invest in them by helping in their personal journey through giving my time and being a genuine and caring friend. If I can help by offering advice or just a listening ear, I try to do so. I proactively seek opportunities to invest in the lives of others; not just selling advice as a consultant but to extend myself to those with whom I interact.

Here are 10 things you can give a friend that won’t cost you a cent!

1. Your heart – everyone needs at least 6 friends to carry them to their grave.
2. Your eyes – honestly tell them what you see from your perspective.
3. Yours hands – maybe you can do them a favor in a time of need.
4. Your ears – listen to them and demonstrate your care for them.
5. Your feet – “go with them” and walk a mile in their shoes.
6. Your nose – tell them what “stinks” if your intuition tells you something smells bad.
7. Your mouth – encouraging words and words of support will go a long way.
8. Your back – there may be a time to withdraw your support if they are in the wrong.
9. Your prayers – talk to God about them and let them know you are doing it.
10. Your experience – don’t let them waste their time learning something you already know.

"Try being a giver as an expression of gratitude for all that you have received and you will be amazed how it blesses you in return"