These are the three most powerful words I have ever heard in leadership.
I remember the first time I saw Dr. Maya Angelou on Oprah many years ago. Her soulful words hooked my attention. Every single time I hear her voice, I stop everything I am doing and I listen.
Recently I saw a video clip produced by Oprah Winfrey where Dr. Maya Angelou shared a secret to living your best life. You must watch this video.
If you teach, you have to live your teaching.
"I am doing my best to live what I teach." - Dr. Maya Angelou
You are a role model and people are watching. People are watching what you do and what you do not do.
Just do right.
"You don't really have to ask anybody. The truth is, right may not be expedient, it may not be profitable. But it will satisfy your soul." - Dr. Maya Angelou
When I think about the best leaders I have worked for, they lived by their standard and they were consistent about it. One powerful role model in particular is now a Congressman. He was a role model for what is right. I would have done anything for this person and still would.
The best boss I ever had, Steve, did right. Everyone knew that he would always do what is right. He never compared his standard to anyone else. His standard was his. I loved how people looked at Steve.
The two worst bosses I had, didn't do right. Both had double or triple standards that created confusion and anxiety. High performers ran from them.
Get clear about who you are and why you are here. Set your standard and do right.
Be the best human being you can be.
"Do it because it is right to do." - Dr. Maya Angelou
Each of us are sinful and unclean. It is what we are. We must do our best.
Take up the Bible.
"This is your life. This is your world..." - Dr. Maya Angelou
I need to do a better job at this.
You make your own choices.
Amen.
