Recently in an article from school principle, David McKenzie, I was challenged by the use of action words that can describe leadership intentionality. Being intentional requires work. You work to change your schedule, spending habits, relationships, and work disciplines to accommodate and meet the challenges of goals that have been established. What is the cost if I elect not to intentionally work at being relevant? Well, let us say that the story of the “Emperor’s Clothes” comes to mind, our leadership nakedness is revealed! I would offer some action words – verbs to keep us relevant.

INVEST – As a leader you must invest in your personal growth! The place and the people that you lead can only grow as big as you are. You are the cap or the leadership lid! You must be able to see further, deeper, and faster. You must invest in yourself. What is your growth plan and budget for the next 12 months? Get serious! The journey of 1,000 miles begins with the first step.

MEDITATE – Making mistakes many times indicates that you are engaging life beyond your skill set. Turn mistakes into assets by learning from them so as not to repeat them. This is accomplished through meditation. In a noisy world with so much bling and glitter begging for our attention, you must be intentional in establishing times to unplug from the noise, get alone with note pad and pen (the old fashion way) and journal your thoughts and next steps. Can you demonstrate in your calendar for the next seven days your time of meditation?

ABSORB – Maintain the attitude that everyone can teach you something even if it is what not to do. Teachability is humility in action. Allowing others to speak into your life increases the probability of future growth. No one knows it all! This week discipline yourself to learn from others and circumstances.

ACT – Knowledge is only useful if it is acted upon. Unactioned knowledge produces a pretense of being professional. This in turn leads to arrogance. Eric Hoffler’s book, The True Believer, suggest that too much confidence leads a person to believe they do not need to learn or act on their knowledge. We make time for what we value. Does your time management system reflect your values?

What verbs would you write down that are not listed? Leave a comment.