Start with why

There is a powerful quality in the word 'family' when used to describe groups of people unrelated by blood but by marriage of a shared passion.  On an evening of laughter and learning last Thursday, Stephen Shedletzky used the word to describe those who make 'Future Possibilities for Kids' a possibility.  Those involved with the organization empower children to be leaders and inspire possibility thinking towards accomplishing goals.  Coaching creates a circle of safety that allows for possibility doing.  Shedletzky's talk on behaviours, leadership and living with purpose still resonates with me.

I continued to be inspired this afternoon while trading ideas with some of the FPK staff.  I have never felt more actively engaged with a non-profit organization, even though I've volunteered and donated to a number of charities.  We discussed ways to attract potential volunteers by starting with why - why we do what we do - rather than what each of us does.  Shedletzky has stated that leaders begin with why because it is difficult to explain and isn't rational ~ it is passion and compassion.  Asking why is similar to an origin story.  

One way to attract more volunteers is to empower potential.  Each person's potential extends well beyond his or her job description - it is an attitude I try to bring to work every day.  In the services industry, one way a consumer will perceive a company's quality is based on how well people work together.  As I work towards a managerial position, I've begun to understand why the tone must be set from the top.  Managers empower employees by showcasing their strengths and providing opportunities to use them.  They care about their people's success so that they can make positive contributions towards a companies vision.

It is no longer enough for me to give money and create awareness to charities and their causes.  There is a need to do more and I know I am capable of it.  To be actively engaged in everything I do is a commitment to something I am authentically passionate about, whether it is philanthropy or work.  I want to be a leader.  I want to see change.  And I want everyone to feel the same way.