Unleashing Competence, Inspiring Leadership, and Finding Comfort: Insights for Growth, Purpose, and Strength – Your Champions Brew

Sometimes our purpose comes from our pain.  We are well-positioned to help the person that we used to be.

Happy Friday, Brew Nation! 

Grab your favorite coffee cup, sit back, relax, and get ready to sip on some enriching and thought-provoking content that will equip you to thrive in all areas of your life:

• Uncommon Leader Insights –  I’m thrilled to unveil a new segment in the Champions Brew newsletter that brings you key takeaways from the remarkable guests featured on the Uncommon Leader Podcast!  I am your Friday Coffee Guy  and also a podcast host,  dedicated to providing you with valuable insights to fuel your personal and professional growth. But I need your feedback! Let me know what you think in the comments or email me. Your input matters!

In a recent episode of the Uncommon Leader Podcast, I had the privilege of interviewing Kimberly Wilkerson, the visionary Founder & CEO of Token Clothing Company. Our conversation was nothing short of inspiring, offering profound lessons on leadership, faith, and perseverance. Here are three key takeaways that will undoubtedly propel you on your growth journey: 

1. We are being watched – As leaders, our influence extends far beyond what we may realize. Kimberly shared a heartfelt story about her grandfather, a World War II veteran, whose unwavering kindness and genuine care for others left an indelible mark on her leadership journey. This powerful lesson reminds us of the importance of maintaining warmth, compassion, and a genuine desire to help others, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
2. There’s transformative power in aligning  your purpose and passion – When our passions align with our life’s work, the results can be uncommon. Kimberly’s transition from speech pathology to founding Token Clothing Company beautifully illustrates the significance of harmonizing passion and purpose in both personal and professional endeavors. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one’s calling, even when faced with self-limiting beliefs and societal expectations.
3. Social media is NOT a 4-letter word – While it’s true that social media can be addictive and often portrayed negatively, as leaders, we can acknowledge its addictive nature while still leveraging its potential for positive impact. Kimberly’s commitment to utilizing social media as a force for good underscores the immense potential for creating meaningful connections and fostering empowerment in the digital age.

Kimberly’s story is a powerful reminder of the intrinsic connection between personal faith, resilience, and authentic leadership. To gain further insights and listen to our captivating conversation in its entirety, click the link https://www.uncommonleaderpodcast.com/92. While you’re there, why not subscribe to the Uncommon Leader Podcast? And if you enjoy the content, I’d greatly appreciate your support in leaving us a 5-star rating!

• Think Positively – While many are excited about the upcoming Christmas season, there are also others that don’t look forward to the season for a multitude of reasons.  They have lost a loved one during previous holidays and those memories could be painful.  When distance comes between you and family during the holidays, loneliness can settle in as well.  I was encouraged by a recent post from pastor and author, Craig Groeschel.  Here are “7 verses to Remember When You’re Feeling Down”:
  • Isaiah 41:10 – So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
  • Philippians 4:6-7 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
  • Philippians 4:13 – I can do all things through him who gives me strength.
  • Romans 8:28 – And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
  • Joshua 1:9 – Have I not commanded you?  Be strong and courageous.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
  • Isaiah 40:31 – But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.
  • Deuteronomy 31:8 – The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.  Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.

It is my hope and prayer that this holiday season brings you joy and laughter.  And, if the season brings thoughts of sadness or loneliness that these verses can be uplifting for you.

• Read More – We are working our way through The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader, another John Maxwell classic sure to equip you and inspire you to uncommon leadership! I look forward to walking through it with you, Brew Nation!  This week, I will dive into Chapter 5.  I hope you have gotten a copy and are reading along with me.

Quality #5 – Competence

If You Build It, They Will Come

Competence, as defined by John Maxwell, transcends mere words. It is “the leader’s ability to articulate, strategize, and execute with such mastery that others willingly choose to follow.” The New Oxford American Dictionary further defines competence as “the capacity to succeed and perform efficiently.”

Upon reviewing these definitions, it becomes evident that Benjamin Franklin exemplified true competence. Despite his limited formal education (he only attended school for 2 years), Franklin’s contributions to society were remarkable, ranging from establishing Philadelphia’s first library to co-authoring the Declaration of Independence. So, what enabled Franklin to develop his competence? I surmise three key takeaways that I believe contributed to his success and offer valuable lessons for our own growth:

1. Attitude: Your attitude is a choice. To cultivate competence, you must approach each day with a readiness to perform at your best, regardless of how you feel. Embrace Ben Newman’s concept of “The Standard” whereas you define the level of commitment that inspires and compels you to deliver your best every single day, regardless of things outside your control.
2. Curiosity: Those who attain competence consistently seek improvement. They possess an insatiable curiosity, continuously asking “why?” They delve into the depths of understanding, like a persistent toddler, until they grasp the inner workings of a subject. Remember, the person who knows how to do something will always have a role, but the one who comprehends why becomes the leader.
3. Growth Mindset: Franklin’s success was not solely a result of his craftsmanship. He adhered to a set of thirteen virtues, grading himself daily against them. Instead of settling for proficiency in his trade, he sought continuous growth and improvement. Adopt a growth mindset, consistently challenging yourself to exceed your own standards and embrace opportunities for advancement.

Competence is a personal journey that challenges external definitions. By setting your own standard and continuously striving for improvement, you can realize your true potential. Benjamin Franklin’s life teaches us that competence is nurtured by cultivating a positive attitude, embracing curiosity, and maintaining a growth mindset. As leaders when we grow in these areas, our path to competence will inspire others to follow suit.

Next week: Courage

Quote of the week:    “Uncommon occurs when excellence is pursued intentionally.”

What You Need to Do:

Call to Action:  Take a moment to ponder the key takeaways from these words  on purpose, finding comfort, and competence. How can you apply these insights to your own life and leadership journey? Identify one action step you can take today.

It’s an honor to be your trusted “Friday Coffee Guy”.  Each week, I’m excited to provide yet another round of curated content that I’ve been reading, listening to, watching, or thinking over. The purpose of the Champions Brew is to inspire, equip and encourage you to become the uncommon leader you were designed to be. I am so grateful for your decision to invest a few moments with me! I hope you enjoyed this week’s edition of Champions Brew. If you did, I would appreciate it if you would share it with someone who might enjoy it as well and ask them to subscribe! I will make sure they automatically get this email every week.

Until next time, Go and Grow Champions!

P.S. – Are you a podcast fan?  Maybe the Uncommon Leader podcast is for you.    Are you interested in being a guest on the Uncommon Leader Podcast?  Do you have a story to tell?  Email me [email protected] and let’s have a chat and set something up!!