Entry 3 - Wk3 Comments to Jacqueline Jones: The Art of Possibility Ch. 5-8

Wk3-Reading: The Art of Possibility, Chapters 5-8

Jacqueline’s Comments:
You know, if everyone saw themselves as a leader, individuals would take more responsibility for their own actions. And, they would appreciate what others have to offer to the team. I use to facilitate a leadership program in a company and we called it "niche" leadership. The concept promoted the idea that each person was a leader in their assigned roles and others depended on them. This concept is hindered when Rule Number 6 is violated.

I went through this period of time where I too myself too seriously. I am probably more challenged by my calculating self on a personal level. Now, if I can't laugh at work, it is probably not the right environment for me. The example in the book where the executive posted "Remember Rule Number 6" in the work area for all employees proves that sometimes the violation of that rule comes from the top. So, if we are temporarily trapped in an environment where Rule Number 6 is being violated, we have to lead from our chair and make a positive impact.

Chapter 7 was an eye opener because reality does have its place. In the opening dialogue, the Duck says, "The way things are stinks." Here is a photo by Terry Border, the Bent Objects Artist, that illustrates this point. Let's take for instance the how the economy has affected people. My Pastor shared a story about an executive who lost his job. He was unsuccessful in finding anything comparable to his previous position. He omitted things on his resume to get a job at Subway making sandwiches so he could feed his family. In that role, he lead from "his chair," which was noticed by the higher ups. Well, within six months he was promoted to manager and later to district manager. He was what the Zander's call "present" in the way things were but he did not accept it.

I love working in a creative environment. In fact, when I talk about my work as an instructional designer, people always respond with the word "passionate." I am also fortunate to work around others who are passionate about what they do. I have been on the other side of the fence and it is not a nice situation.

Artwork by Terry Border: http://bentobjects.blogspot.com

My comments to Jacqueline:

Jacqueline,
Great post! Totally got a kick out of your Voki introducing yourself. I think it is absolutely incredible that we have the possibility of being creative. It's a truly a shame that so many people waste the plethora of opportunities in a given day to release the inner creativity inside us all because they choose to look at their lives from a "calculated self" perspective. I think this is where much of what Zander speaks of anyhow. Through all the examples and stories that the book discusses I seem to always find myself thinking about the creative mind that we all have. Your story about the executive is really a great example of the "Leading from your Chair" chapter in the book. I think this is something that we can all be encouraged and influenced by no matter where we are at in life. Thanks for sharing Jacqueline!