Leadership Lessons - Getting Lost, Not Always a Bad Thing

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From James Dodwell - Hammers of Hope

 

Good Morning,

The directions for the trip home were clear enough, just follow the signs to I-65 north which were posted all along the county road winding through south west Alabama. I was driving, my wife the passenger was watching for the signs when she said, “Pavement ends ahead, that’s not good.” So for the next ten to fifteen miles we traveled on a dirt road between some of the most beautiful farmland we have witnessed. I am not sure when I missed the turn; however, we were off the main path into uncharted territory. I guess I could have turned around and backtracked, but where is the fun in doing that? I checked to make sure the compass was pointing North East as we forged ahead, dust billowing up behind the truck, banjo music from “Deliverance” playing in my head, not knowing where this new path would take us, but we were hopeful a paved road was in our future.

While we cautiously traveled along the country road I was reminded of a story about a driver who was speeding along a twisty country lane when he turned a corner and, to his horror, saw two farmhands standing chatting in the middle of the road.  He swerved violently to avoid them but the car ran up an embankment, did a triple somersault and landed in an adjacent field. One farmhand turned to the other and said: "That was a stroke of luck. I reckon we got out of that field just in time." By a stroke of luck we finally ended our dirt road trip just east of Atmore, Alabama and were able to maneuver around and get on I-65 north to join the bumper to bumper traffic train to Montgomery. After a few minutes on the well traveled path we decided it was safer and the view from the windshield was more appealing when we were on the narrow, less traveled path, but we forged ahead, ready to be home.

Our life path is similar; we are on one path when we either get distracted or are lead in a different direction, then we wind up on a path in unfamiliar territory. We think maybe we should backtrack and get back on path we were on, but then we realize our compass is pointed in the right direction. Maybe, this is where we need to be just now, at this time in our life. We recheck our compass, it’s still pointed in the right direction, maybe this is a new adventure, and maybe a change in destiny awaits us. Why not give it a chance? The change in scenery is good, the path isn’t too rough, in fact it’s pleasant, we have remained teachable and now are learning something new, a different way, and our compass remains steady pointing in the right direction. So we cautiously, forge ahead, readying ourselves for the challenge.

As I pondered this event later, I thought about having trust. Successful leaders depend not on their own wit and wisdom, but on God for direction. Leaders act according to their gifts and calling but trust God to bring about desired results. Living in today’s world, information about almost anything happening is at our fingertips within seconds. All this chatter and communication makes us weary and tired and our purpose in life becomes vague and blurred. We tend to become defensive about our leadership and lose trust in the compass showing us the way. All leaders, even great leaders become vulnerable when they grow tired, lonely, angry, or hungry. The thing to do is look within, lean into Him, find rest in Him then allow Him to set the course heading to help us stay on path.

As we stretch and grow as leaders, we don’t need to lean on what we learn and be reactive; we need to lean in to what we learn to make us better and more proactive. We need to know God’s vision is most likely larger than ours. We need to always include others in our plans. We should think continually and never be satisfied with today’s answers. We need to strive for results and fruit. We should keep improving and helping others to improve. We have to think outside the box. We have to have a sense of what will work. We must serve and add value to people. We must evaluate quickly and see possible answers to help guide others in the right direction.

I encourage all of us, the next time we find ourselves off-path and feeling lost in life, turn to the GPS. Not the standard Global Positioning System but instead “God’s Preferred Solution”, prayer. Sit quietly somewhere, close your eyes and mouth, open your mind, heart and ears and listen to Him for direction. It will make a difference in our lives and definitely be value added. Psalm 37:3

Leadership Lessons - Happy Leaders Day

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From James Dodwell - Hammers of Hope

Good Morning,

I want to say happy “belated” Father’s Day to all of you, who are called dad. I was curious as to when Father’s day began so I did some research and found the idea to set aside a day for fathers was conceived on June 19, 1910 but it wasn’t until 1972 that it became a national holiday. Incidentally, it was 58 years after Mother’s day was proclaimed a national holiday. Not that it matters, or is even a significant bit of trivia; I just found it interesting to know what has always been viewed as a man’s world women were first to be recognized with a celebratory day of recognition. Just saying.

When I was a young man we always made a big to-do for Mother’s day and did very little for Father’s day. I remember for Mother’s day we would all gather at my grandparents home for lunch, of course the mothers did all of the meal preparation while playing shepherd to all the children, while the  fathers talked “business”. However, Father’s day went like this, children were shuffled out of the house and the dad was left to rest or do what he wanted for the day. It was the 1960’s and that is just the way it was back then. My father was involved when discipline was needed for us children, not to be the center of attention for a day. I can remember my mother saying something like, “Go to your room young man, your father will be in to see you when he gets home.” Although she never said he will be in with a belt or a switch, I knew what her words really meant, tough love and painful discipline, I was getting a whooping, not a spanking, a whooping.

As I pondered this today I recalled a story of a small boy is sent to bed by his father. A short time later, the small boy said, "Da-ad...." The dad responded, "What?" The small boy, "I'm thirsty. Can you bring a drink of water?" "No. You had your chance. Lights out." A long Pause:"Da-aaaad....." "WHAT?" "I'm THIRSTY. Can I have a drink of water??" "I told you NO!" If you ask again, I'll have to spank you!!" A much longer pause......"Daaaa-aaaad....." "WHAT!" "When you come in to spank me, can you bring a drink of water?"

If this had been my son there is no way I could have spanked someone as brave and creative as this small boy. I don’t really remember having to be disciplined very often but I do remember vividly the times I was and why. I was taught right from wrong and recalling the tough love moments always gave me pause before I acted on some ill conceived idea or plot. The fact that I was raised is a Christian environment helped also. We were taught bad people/bad leaders get punished and good people/good leaders get rewarded and this usually goes for the followers, as well. In Jeremiah 30:10-11, Jeremiah declares to the people that Lord’s way of punishing His people is to give them bad leaders while the Lord’s way of rewarding His people is to provide them with good leaders.

This goes along with a statement I heard John Maxwell say, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.” This is so true. As we stretch and grow on our leadership journey and become more disciplined, we begin to better understand the statement, “As the leader goes, so go the people.” Why is this true? First, because leaders represent the people they oversee. The people reflect the leaders they follow. We see this everyday in our world. Good leaders with good character and integrity draw people who are like them, as is the same with bad leaders. As leaders, we are usually the most influential individuals among the people. Our walk determines what the others do in their walk. If we are generous and display a servant’s attitude, most likely our followers will have similar traits.

A true leader understands God starts the movement within and He uses one person to spearhead the movement. A leader understands that people are like sheep and look to the leader as a model. The father in the home is called on to be the leader. He represents the people he oversees, the family. The family reflects the leadership model they follow. The father is usually the most influential individual in the family. The father understands that the Lord starts the movement and He will use the father to spearhead it. The father in the home acts as the shepherd, what he does, the family does, where he goes, the family goes, what he represents, the family represents; the father should be the role model.

I encourage us as fathers and mothers to be the model for our family. Be a guiding light, illuminating the way by sharing our faith, hope, unconditional love and joy with them and others. It will make a difference, add value and discipline to our family and others. Jeremiah 30:10-11

Leadership Lessons - Politically Incorrect? Maybe...

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From James Dodwell - Hammers of Hope

Good Morning,

Politics isn’t in my wheelhouse or do I claim any knowledge of how the big political machine operates but an article in the local paper announcing “the date has arrived” for candidates to qualify for the office they plan to seek caught my attention recently. I was amused at what had to be done to qualify: Must be a resident of the city or district for 90 days prior to election and pay a small registration fee to become a candidate for public office. What? No background checks, no character references, nope, just live in the city or district and pay a few dollars and you are off and running. I’m no Einstein but this may be where the problem begins with some of the elected officials in office today. Just saying.

As I read this in the paper I recalled a story: An older couple was a little worried, as their son was still unable to decide about his future career. So they decided to do a small test. They put a note on the front hall table saying they were out for the night. Around the note they put a ten-dollar bill, a Bible, and a bottle of whiskey. Then they hid. The father told his wife, "If our son takes the money, he will be a businessman, if he takes the Bible, he will be a pastor, but if he takes the bottle of whiskey, I'm afraid our son will be a no-good drunkard." So the parents waited nervously, peeping through the keyhole as they saw their son arrive. The son read the note, took the ten-dollar bill and slid it in his pocket. Then he took the Bible, flipped through it, and put it under his arm. Finally, he grabbed the bottle, opened it, and took an appreciative whiff to be assured of the quality. Then he left for his room, carrying all three items. The father slapped his forehead and said to his wife, "This is worse than I could ever have imagined!" "Our son is going to be a politician!"

Thomas Jefferson once said, “No duty the executive has to perform is so trying as to put the right man in the right place.” In other words, no duty the people have to perform is so trying as to put the right candidate in the right office. As leaders in our homes and communities, it is up to us to put the right people in the right places. It is our responsibility to aid this process by making sure the candidate, the elected leader, is of the utmost character and integrity, has the skills and abilities, an abundance mindset and a servants -heart for the people.

A person seeking office must connect with the hearts of the people and understand there are certain principles that make the whole organization progress. They need to know motivation without organization equals frustration. We have seen numerous plans rolled out for the “benefit” of the masses. Complex wording, vague ideas, and little communication, weaken support and kills motivation. Open communication, true teamwork and transparency increases support and keep people motivated. The strongest organizations are the simplest. True leaders love everybody, but move with the movers. They put the right people in the right places and continue forward.

True leaders know good organizations establish clear lines of authority. There is no room for blurred lines or fuzzy math. Clear and concise instruction and communication helps to eliminate any confusion and develops trust and honesty within the organization. People do what you inspect, not what you expect. Rules and regulations are there for a purpose and should be followed, if not change must occur. The person working outside the established boundaries will have to change or be changed. True leaders provide a supportive climate of trust and teamwork. Let me say this again, true leaders, in our communities, homes, organizations, government and places of worship, must provide a supportive climate of trust and teamwork to make the organization successful. Last but not least, successful organizations, managed by true leaders recognize and reward the efforts of the team, the whole team, the entire team.

I encourage each of us to take the time to understand what we want to see in our leaders. Do they have the skills, abilities, qualities and principles we want in a person we plan to lead our organization? Do they have a servants-heart for the people? Are they willing to take the responsibility for doing what is right and true? Do they look to a higher power for their instruction or operate under their own power? We have the opportunity to make a difference and add value with our vote, make it count.  Matthew 7:13-14

Leadership Lessons - Small Act of Generosity

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From James Dodwell - Hammers of Hope

Good Morning,

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Camp ASCCA located on Lake Martin, Al. The camp is purposed for special needs children and offer several activities for the “campers” during their stay. They have archery, horseback riding, a nature center, a sensor room, putt-putt golf, boating activities on the lake, a craft room, zip lines, splash pad and much more. At one point during our tour, we had to wait while several campers paraded by us on the way to the next activity, when one of the young men at the end stopped, turned to me and said, ”Hey, what is your name”?  Surprised that he picked me out I said, “Jim.” He said, “Hello, Jim, you are a big guy, you know what we just did in that room?” “No sir”, I replied. He said, “Me neither but it was something with dirt and I got it all over my hands, so be careful.” I said, “Okay, I will, good to meet you.”

As I walked to the entrance to rejoin my group, he shouted, “Hey, Jim, you forgot to give me a hug.” So I walked back to him and gave him a hug and shook both his dirty hands. He smiled then asked me,” Hey, Jim, what’s your last name?” I said, “Dodwell.” He looked at me for several seconds as if trying to process the name and its meaning, then said, ”Well, Jim I need to move along, see you later, bye, good to meet you and watch out for that dirt in there.” I don’t know if he will remember me but I will always remember him, a special young man making the my visit extra special by taking the time to touch my heart, share a little advice and offer me a hug which I could not pass up.

I heard it said, “Sometimes the embers are better than the campfire.” My interpretation is that the flames and heat from roaring fire will make you stand back while the cooler, glowing embers will draw you closer seeking their warmth. In my limited experience with special needs children they are like the embers. The warmth of closeness and love is what they seek, not necessarily for themselves but to share. They think of others first. They accept you, unconditionally, whether you accept them or not. This could be a lesson for all of us, in my opinion. The young man’s openness, honesty, and trust in me affected me in a way I can’t explain. He opened the eyes of my heart in those few minutes of conversation and I will never be able to repay him for the kindness.

Special needs: love, hope, kindness, joy, faith, honesty, trust, character, integrity, and so forth and so on, are especially needed. These are obtainable and shareable and it requires so little work. We just need to keep our heart open and willing to accept these within so we can share them with others without.  So why do we simply do what is expected instead of the unexpected? We are thinking only of ourselves when this happens. But think about this, when we give generously, the impact of our generosity often outlives us. What, this is crazy talk…Well, not really.

In the moment of giving, we cannot imagine how our actions might impact the lives of others in the future. Because generously adding value to others is rare, the impact of that generosity lingers long after we are gone. Sometimes it outlives us both now and in eternity. We all have gifts to offer others. God has gifted us strengths we are to use to benefit others. Everyone has something we all need. His gift makes us indispensible to others. In the Book of Luke, generosity played a big role in the feeding of the five thousand with five loaves and two fish. Jesus blessed the small basket of fish and bread and at the end of the meal collected 12 times more. This is how generosity works. In other words, a candle loses nothing by lighting another.

I encourage each of us to be open with our gifts and to share our love, hope, joy and faith with others. Be willing to share the flame of our candle to provide a source of His light to others. It will make a difference and add value to others lives and our lives, as well. Luke 9:12-17

Leadership Lessons - Do What You are Afraid of.

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From James Dodwell - Hammers of Hope

Good Morning,

Do what you are afraid of doing. Words to stretch and grow by and I am a believer. Over the past several days I have climbed out of my box to do several things I have never done. Why? Not sure but it just seemed to be what I was supposed to do at the time. All the fear, worry and excuses were eliminated the instant I decided to step forward and walk through the doors of fear into something new and exciting. In the beginning I was uncomfortable, a little insecure and even felt a little worthless but as I moved into this unknown territory I began to feel freedom from the fear and a realization there was something better awaiting me if only I could push all those negative feelings aside.

I didn’t leap tall buildings, or stop a locomotive nor was I faster than a speeding bullet however it was something nagging at me from within, very simple, very much in my thoughts for too long and I needed resolution.  I made the leap, not perfect, skinned my knees and elbows a little, but stayed focused and achieved a dream. This is the way it is when trying something new for the first time, starting a new job, meeting new people, speaking in public, and so on and so forth. We have to put our fears aside, move forward, test the waters, then go for it, if not how else will we know? We won’t. As I pondered this I recalled a story:

The sympathetic and inquisitive old lady at the seashore was delighted and thrilled by an old sailor's narrative of how he was washed overboard during a gale and was only rescued after having sunk for the third time. "And, of course," she commented brightly, "after you sank the third time, your whole past life passed before your eyes." "I presume that it did, mum," the sailor agreed. "But bein' as I had my eyes shut, I missed it."

This is so “life like”. There have been many missed opportunities during my life because I had my eyes closed out of fear or just the fact I didn’t want to make a change. However, life is like water it seeks it on level and sometimes you can’t hold back the change; you have to go with the flow. It’s not always a bad thing either, in fact most of the time it is needed to help us stretch and grow and reach our potential.  I read once that when you stretch yourself, you grow, and life’s rewards are attained through this growth. A life of growth will bring you never ending fulfillment. This is so true.

As leaders in our homes, careers, communities, and places of worship, we need to be the ones helping to replace the fear others experience by equipping them through our life example. To make this point, if we wish to equip others; we must give them certain gifts. First, we must CARE for them through Communication, Affirmation, Recognition and Example. We must encourage others to work on their weaknesses, but work out and lean into their strengths. We must be willing to provide them with our time, energy and focus to help them develop their strengths and at the same time give them ownership of the ministry.

We as leaders become a resource, a person to maintain a positive atmosphere, provide avenues of training, show support and provide the tools when needed. We must make our expectations clear, help to set goals, teaching and remaining teachable. We as leader hold the responsibility to eliminate unnecessary burdens and when we catch them doing something good, reward them.  I recall the missed opportunity in my life was during my early years when I was stubborn and knew everything.

There were good leaders/mentors around me each day but I did not heed their instruction or advice. It was years down the road when I actually took a hard fall that the words of a mentor/leader friend helped to lift me and get me back on path. He quoted Paul from the Book of Ephesians, he said, “See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

Therefore, I encourage us as I was encouraged to analyze our lifestyles, utilize the present and prioritize what is important. Every one of us as leaders, every day, gets the same amount of time, but not every leader gets the same results. We have to be open to change and be willing to rid ourselves of fear. It will make a difference and be valued added to our lives and the lives of others. Ephesians 5:15-17

Begin Again

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From James Dodwell - Hammers of Hope

Good Morning,

Books are everywhere in the room used for an office at our home, hardbacks, paperbacks, books on disc, and even some books on tape. When I purchase a book, I try to read it within a couple of days, usually during rainy weekend or in a deer stand if it is hunting season. Some of the books are just page turners and are fun reads and there are others that give me pause and cause me to be slow and methodical in my reading. The latter are the ones I enjoy the most. On occasions, I will pick up one of the books I read long ago from the shelves and begin again. Although I read it before, it doesn’t always seem familiar. Maybe it’s because when I read it the first time I really wasn’t listening to the words, I was just reading them and there is a difference.

Like I said, I enjoy reading, but sometimes I have to be in the mood, adjust my attitude, turn it up just a notch or two to get my mind and body in a place I can sit quietly for time and slowly turn the pages. So, as I was scanning the titles on one shelf I came across the book, “Today Matters by John Maxwell.” Between the covers of the book are twelve commitments he says we should make each day of our lives. I have referenced these before but wanted to share them, again, today.

1. Just for today, I will choose and display the right attitudes. Foundation: Philippians 2:3-8

2. Just for today, I will determine and act on important priorities. Foundation: Ephesians 5:15-17

3. Just for today, I will know and follow healthy guidelines. Foundation: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

4. Just for today, I will communicate with and care for my family. Foundation: 1 Timothy 5:8

5. Just for today, I will practice and develop good thinking. Foundation: Proverbs 4:5-9

6. Just for today, I will make and keep proper commitments. Foundation: Philippians 3:12-14

7. Just for today, I will earn and properly manage my finances. Foundation Ecclesiastes 5:10-20

8. Just for today, I will deepen and live out my faith. Foundation: Colossians 2:6-7

9. Just for today, I will initiate and invest in solid relationships. Foundation: Colossians 3:12-24

10. Just for today, I will plan for and model generosity. Foundation: Proverbs 11:24-28

11. Just for today, I will embrace and practice good values, Foundation: Psalm 119:33-40

12. Just for today, I will seek and experience improvements. Foundation: 1 Peter 2:1-3 

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenged us to seek first His Kingdom and all other needs we have will be added to us. He was telling us not to worry about tomorrow that each day has enough trouble of its own. Just focus on today.

I encourage each of us to not become discouraged, allow Him to restore our perspective. Allow change in our lives but not to the point it alters our principles and values. Face problems head-on and look for ways to go under, around, over or through them by allowing our attitude to stay steady and hopeful. Do not allow fear to creep into our lives and understand that fear is really false evidence appearing real. And be encouraged that we can turn failure into success if we remained focus on Him. Begin again. Begin today sharing our love, hope, joy and faith, because today matters and it does make a difference in our lives and the lives of others. 2 Corinthians 5:17

The Journey of Forty Years

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From James Dodwell - Hammers of Hope

Good Morning,

Moses traveled the desert for forty years which just happens to be the same amount of time is has been since our high school class graduated. Moses task was a little more daunting than ours; lead the people out of Egypt, across the desert and into a new land, our task was for us to lead ourselves into new life and new lands with courage and be fruitful in our future endeavors.

Our fortieth class reunion was held this weekend and from all indications, we have made the journey well. It was good to see the smiling faces of all who attended. The years have been kind to everyone, there wasn’t anyone in the group who had changed so much no one recognized them. Sure there are a few more white hairs of wisdom, and a few more wrinkles of knowledge among the group but overall everyone pretty much was the same. Some came from far away, some still reside in the area and it was like, old times as they say, however this one was a little different instead of talking about life accomplishments and children, we were huddled around each other’s phone looking at screen shots as we displayed pictures of grandchildren and bragged about them.

When I think back to how I was then and how I am now, the changes that occurred on the outside may be slightly noticeable however the inward changes, changes within, have molded me a into completely different person, which hopefully is more acceptable. I was selfish, out of control, pig-headed (which hasn’t changed much), prideful, self-centered, all the things our parents instructed us against. However, over the years, life experiences, responsibilities, unconditional love of a spouse, a child and God, with more of the change coming from being humbled by His love and their love has made me see things differently and respond in a caring, loving manner to life’s obstacles and to others. As I looked into the faces of this family of friends and close relations I was reminded we all stated the journey in very similar place, left the group at different stops along the way, returned to the path later to find that most of us have arrived at a better place in our lives; happy with who and where we are, living the dream and loving every minute of it.

Something John Maxwell said is written on the first page of one of my journals and I read it at least once a week, “There is a reason today is called the present, because today is a gift, take it, use it to make a difference and add value in the lives of others.” We are called to spread the “fruit of the spirit” by planting seeds of hope, love, joy and faith into the lives of others. When the seeds grow and blossom they bear fruit. The fruit, our fruits, are represented with our outward and visible behavior. We, as leaders, should embrace these good “fruits” and be intentional with sharing as we lean into the lives others.

We should make sure that our leadership is motivated by love for people when helping them to stretch and grow to reach their full potential. We should always exhibit joy, unshakeable joy, regardless of the circumstances. Our walk should model inward peace because when we are at peace in stressful situations it provides an opportunity for others to glean the courage to stand and face those challenges. We should always develop people and goals to help avoid the longsuffering wait for results. As leasers, we should always promote kindness with our words and actions as we display caring and understanding to everyone we meet.

As leaders, we should always want the best for others, in our organizations, careers, communities, homes and in our places of worship by modeling goodness. We should be faithful and show faithfulness by remaining true to our commitments to the mission remembering to keep our character and integrity always on the forefront of our decisions and actions. We, as leaders, should project gentleness by keep our strength under control. We should know there will be times when we have to be tough and make the hard decisions and sometimes in the same situation we have to know when to be tinder and use the experience as a teachable moment to lift others to a new level of understanding. As leaders, we must always practice self-control. Disciplines in our lives develop into our principles and values that radiate out to others clarifying what we stand for and what is important. The self-control and discipline helps not only others but us, as we move forward toward our development as a better leader helping us stretch and grow ourselves to reach our full potential.

I encourage each of us to know today is called the present, because today is a gift to take the opportunity to reach others as we share “the fruits of the spirit” through our actions, reactions to life’s daily challenges. It will make a difference and add value to others and to us. Galatians 5:22-23

Where is the Flea?

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From James Dodwell and Hammers of Hope

Good Morning,

A lifetime ago, or so it seems, we worked with a strong manager/leader. This person was able to get water from a rock. For him the word motivation was an adjective not a noun and he used this skill to bring out the best in people along with helping them reach their potential. Motivation was the fuel on the fire that never burned out while he was there. Then one day…a better offer with more opportunity took him from our presence. Rather than promote someone trained by him to lead the team, with like skills and vision, the decision was made to look elsewhere and the person hired did not have the skill set, abilities or the personality to motivate and challenge the team enough to hold them together. The strength of relationship, teamwork and the vision was lost to red tape, poor decisions and confusion between the new manager and team. The once strong team was scattered, pieced out to other projects while some other team members found new jobs with other organizations.

A friend sent me a quote recently that said, “A bad manager can take a good staff and destroy it causing the best employees to flee and the remainder to lose all motivation.” We will get back to this however, when I read this it reminded me of a story I heard about a father reading the story from Genesis 19 about Lot and his wife. The Lord had told Lot to leave the land, to take his family and flee. The father told of the event when Lot’s wife looked back and was changed to a pillar of salt. The little boy had a look of confusion so the father asked him did he understand about Lot’s wife. He said, “Yes, Father, I understand, but what I don’t understand is what happened to the “flea”.” I know, silly story, but it illustrates the fact we need to think about everyone on the team not just the main players.

The former illustration reminds us, if life has no meaning, leadership has no mission. During our walk in life, we all grow deflated, depressed and disillusioned about life at different times. We lose the vision and the dream of a “life under the sun.” We want to abandon the “mission”. We think there is no profit because all we are doing is moving things around. We feel we have no purpose in the endless, meaningless cycle of time and movement. We feel we aren’t making any progress because there doesn’t seem to be any satisfaction; in other words, there’s nothing new “under the sun.”

We, as leaders, don’t have time to fall prey to these crazy feelings. We have to “lean-in” to life and battle these so-called inner demons or circumstances of life. We must work toward significant, meaningful goals. We must host an eternal perspective that glows within us, shining brightly; lighting the way for others to see their own significance and purpose. It is written that Solomon wrote, “Life is vanity.” The richest, most powerful man in the world during his time was proclaiming everything worthless without a purpose, without a calling, without vision. But he understood these things:

“If nothing worthwhile exists under the sun, our only hope must lie above it.” We must not look to our own strengths and abilities; we must rely on God’s purpose for our lives and follow it. “If the man with everything investigated every visible delight and still wound up unsatisfied, then what satisfies must be invisible.” It’s called hope and faith. These are things you can’t see but we rely heavily on each day. They are intangible and invisible providing the fuel within us to keep us powered up, looking up. “If the wisest man on earth finds no answers under heaven, then we must look to heaven itself for those answers.” Its called prayer, a healing force so powerful is within our reach and all we need to do is call upon His name in prayer and it will be given to us. It may or may not be in the form we want. It may not be exactly what we ask for, however the answer will come if we keep the faith, seek Him and follow His commandments.

I encourage each of us to maintain the light of hope and faith within to cast vision, provide motivation, and give strength to those who are standing in the shadows. It is through our leadership and our faith and hope in Him that provide us the ability to cast vision, help set goals, secure the trust and confidence that help make a difference and add values in others lives. Ecclesiastes 1:3-11

AmTech Sponsors Glow Run at City Fest

AmTech Leaders:  www.amtech.net

Steve Robinson, AmTech's COO, getting ready for the Glow Run at this year's City Fest.  He is having fun with some of his grand kids.  Future AmTech leaders!!

Have a great day.
www.amtech.net

Mallory Padgett - President Leadership Lake Martin

AmTech Leaders:  www.amtech.net

Mallory Padgett will be the President of Leadership Lake Martin in Alexander City this coming year.  Mallory is a Leader for AmTech in Human Resources and Customer Service.

Thanks Mallory.

Have a great day.  www.amtech.net

Apic Winner - May - Don Coller

  AmTech Winners: www.amtech.net

AmTech’s APIC Winner for May – Don Collier.  AmTech’s Process Improvement Committee selects a winner each month.  Don is a leader in Customer Service.

Have a great day. www.amtech.net
 

Matt Bishop just completed his project with Leadership Lake Martin

 

 

AmTech Leaders:  www.amtech.net

Matt Bishop just completed his mission with Leadership Lake Martin in Alex City.  Matt is AmTech’s QA Manager.

 From Matt:

Having the opportunity to participate as a member Leadership Lake Martin was an absolutely wonderful experience for me.  I’ve lived in Alexander City my entire life, but I’ve always been somewhat of a loner.  I had to venture out of my “small” comfort zone from the very beginning, which made me grow substantially as a leader, at home and at work. Friendships were forged with other Leadership Lake Martin members/graduates and other members of our surrounding community. These friendships will surely last a lifetime. 

 

Our class 24 members was split into 4 teams. Each team had the task of creating a project that would be beneficial to our community.  Our Team, The Blue Team, chose to improve the disc golf course at the Sportsplex. This bonding experience was great for an introverted person like myself.  After completion of our project, we were able to present a check to the Tallapoosa Christian Crisis Center of $1500.00 which was left over from donations from local businesses and individuals. So, not only were we able to improve a portion of the Sportsplex in hopes of attracting people to Alexander City, we also were able to touch the lives of needy families.

Have a great day.  www.amtech.net

APIC Winners - April - Mallory Padgett

 

 

AmTech Winners:  www.amtech.net

AmTech’s APIC Winner for April – Mallory Padgett.  AmTech’s Process Improvement Committee selects a winner each month.  Mallory leads HR and Customer Service.

Have a great day. www.amtech.net

APIC Winners - February - Tyler Hancock

AmTech Winners:   www.amtech.net

AmTech’s APIC Winner for February – Tyler Hancock.  AmTech’s Process Improvement Committee selects a winner each month.  Tyler is one of our leaders in Engineering/Product Realization.

Have a great day.  www.amtech.net

APIC Winner - March - Machelle Peters

AmTech Winners:  www.amtech.net

AmTech’s APIC Winner for March – Machelle Peters.  AmTech’s Process Improvement Committee selects a winner each month.  Machelle is the Lead in the Big Wiring Harness Area.

Have a great day.  www.amtech.net

AmTech Winners - Kirkland Pugh - Baseball

AmTech Winners:  www.amtech.net

Alexander City 10 year olds win State and head to Regionals.

AmTech’s Kirk Pugh is the proud dad of Kirkland.  Just sharing the highlights of the AmTech family.

Have a great day.  www.amtech.net

Benjamin Russell High School teaches AmTech

             

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

www.amtech.net

Benjamin Russell High School teaches AmTech how to use their Student-Led Conference as part of their People Development.

I recently had a chance to learn from our local high school in Alexander City. Each student from grades 9-12 give a presentation for a team of coaches.  The presentation focuses on their accomplishments with special interest in the 8 C’s of being Career Ready

1.      Character

2.      Communication

3.      Collaboration

4.      Critical Thinking

5.      Creativity & Innovation

6.      Computer & Tech Savvy

7.      Call of Leadership

8.      Community and School Service.

The coaches then focus on the accomplishments and struggles of the current year.  The student sets goals for the upcoming year.

I was able to attend several as coach and plan to do this each year.  It was a great way to see the student understood what they were doing.

At AmTech we build wire harnesses and electrical subassemblies, but deliver customer service.

AmTech has started working on this for our members.  It will be a great way to see we understand why we focus on Customer Service through our Values.

What do you think of the 8C list?

Have a great day.

www.amtech.net

What is it you do?

What is it you do... - www.amtech.net

By James Dodwell, Hammers of Hope

 
Good Morning,

The butler was asked by his employer, “Jules, how long have you been with me?” The butler answered, “Sir, it’s been almost 30 years now, I believe.” The employer sat thoughtfully for a moment before he responded, “Jules, what it is you do for me?” The butler quickly responded, “Well sir, I was hired to take care of the dog.” The employer questioned, “ The dog?, why Jules the dog has been dead almost twenty years.” The butler said, “Yes sir, that is correct, what would you like for me to do now?”

The question posed to me several times a week is, “What are you doing these days?”  In other words, who are you now, since you are doing something different in your life? The odd thing is I really don’t have a good answer, so I change the subject, fast! At one time in my life, my being was defined by my career path. I was so and so and I work at so and so and I am in charge of so and so. I think all of us have experienced this at one time or another. Who we are is what we do, correct? I don’t agree, but what defines who we are? Is it our attitude? Is it our willingness to serve and be of service? Are we in the good ole boy club and one of the good ole boys? Do we care only about ourselves? Is our name in the dictionary prior to a dash followed by hyphenated adverbs, adjectives, verbs and nouns describing us as a person of success or failure?

Of course not, I believe who we are is defined by where we are in our walk and what we become by taking advantage of positive life experiences, numerous opportunities and continuing to remain teachable as we learn to evaluate the value offered us through life lessons that keep us stretching and growing in the journey to reach or full potential. In other words, we can do anything we want to do, go anywhere we want to go, and be whatever we want to become, within reason and if we have the right skills. There are certain things I know I can’t do, but there are other things I do well. I focus on the things I do well and ask for assistance with the things I can’t do well. But it hasn’t always been that way, it’s something we learn when we take the time to evaluate our experiences.

In my opinion, finding, who we are starts with empowerment.  Jesus empowered His disciples by telling them they would do greater things than He had done. He did this by sending the Holy Spirit to live in each of them. He did this by giving of Himself to equip them. He did this by preparing them to reproduce their leadership in the lives of others. The fact is that only secure leaders give their power to others. So how do we as leaders empower others? There is an acronym I have seen used to describe how this process works, “IDEA.”

Instruction – A leader verbally teaches his/her followers. They constantly use daily routines to instruct the leadership principles and ways by being the example. Visually and verbally communicating his/her message over and over until it becomes a habit.

Demonstration – Modeling the truth and allowing others to observe our lives. It is a show and tell type of teaching that is more effective than words, after all doesn’t it hold true that our actions speak louder than our words, most of the time?

Experience – A leader allows others to participate and apply the lessons learned themselves. It is practice for the future leaders. Watch me while I do it, I will stand alongside while you do it, you do it alone, you teach someone else to do it.

Assessment – A leader will debrief the shared experience. He or she will assess the growth they see in others and give them direction to help them continue to improve. They do this by offering feedback, helping to benchmark their progress, encouraging them, lifting them up, emphasizing the positive aspects of their growth and then rewarding them with more responsibility.

I encourage each of us today to consider who our followers are, consider who we are to them. We are mentors, through our walk and daily actions and reactions to things in our lives. Consider how our children watch and learn from us. Are our lives teaching them the values we want them to learn? The answer should be a resounding, YES, so you are making a difference in their lives and the lives of others. John 14:12-14

www.amtech.net

Value of Quietness

The value of quietness - www.amtech.net

By James Dodwell – Hammers of Hope  

Good Morning,

Most of my days begin with a rush, rushing to get dress, hurriedly touching base with my wife for the evening schedule of events, rushing to work, scanning email after email, ranking them by importance to follow-up later and when I finally look up its late afternoon. The hustle and bustle noise created in the day is no longer audible then I realize the others occupying the same office space have left for the day. I am unsure when, but I do have some memory of “I’ll see you tomorrow, have a nice evening” being spoken in my direction sometime in the day, possibly only a few minutes ago or maybe hours ago, I don’t recall exactly. However, here I am left to my “work”, alone, not necessarily a bad thing.

A few days ago a good friend highlighted a quote in an email he sent to me and yes reading the email was ranked “up there” in the importance category, it says, “What a lovely surprise to finally discover how un-lonely being alone can be.” -Ellen Burstyn. The true meaning of the statement didn’t sink in right away. As I sat in my “aloneness” I began to realize the value of quietness, of being still, just thinking through the day’s activities and plans for the evening. I reflected on the prior evening with my wife sitting on the tail gate of my truck as we spoke in serious, low voices about events happening around us and in our lives, some in control some not so much in control. I thought about how little we actually talk and really listen to each other. We talk at each other while we are readying ourselves for work or preparing a meal, but we rarely take the time to really listen to each other. We are generally alone with each other, again not necessarily a bad thing.

As leaders, we must take some time to be alone. We must take the time to reflect on our experiences, search within for the lessons learned, and lean-in to our solitude to help us recharge and refresh our minds and spirits. As leaders, we have a bias to action and sometimes find ourselves so busy multitasking we don’t feel we can take the time to learn something new to create new avenues for growth. In our minds, We are the growth, just do as I do but the reality is we are just going, going, going to here, to there, reaching this plateau, maintaining the small area within the eighteen inch space we are allowed to occupy. We begin to lose the value of quietness, the value of being alone until we pause at the end of the day, take a breath and finally realize just how un-lonely being alone can be and just how important it is for us to make it a priority every day.

I am not advocating we become hermits and go live in a cave, but what we need to do is find the right pace or cadence for our life. Once upon a time, I would leave work each day and run 6 to 8 miles each afternoon. During the run I had to find my pace, too slow I would lose my cadence or rhythm to maintain my time per mile, too fast I would wear myself out long before I completed my loop. My pace needed to be somewhere in the middle of too slow and too fast for me to meet my time goal for the distance. It’s the same with our careers and personal lives. If we fix our eyes on the past we risk colliding with the future. If we see only the future we will crash into the hurdles of present.  If we don’t take the time to reflect and recharge our spirit, minds and bodies we run the risk of burnout and fail to succeed.

We as leaders are the watchmen for others and ourselves. We are always looking ahead, watching, anticipating approaching disaster. It is our job; however we need to watch out for ourselves in the process. Not selfishly, but protectively taking care of our physical and mental health because we have the awesome responsibility of leadership and what better way to lead than by example.  Our faith offers us security through the promise of God’s presence in our lives letting us know it doesn’t have to be lonely at the top. It’s through God’s protection as we take risks and initiative He keeps us safe. It’s through God’s peace allowing us to not feel insecure in unknown territories. It’s through God’s perspective as He presents us with an eternal view of life that keeps us steady and on course.

It’s through God’s provision that regardless of our needs, He meets them if we ask in His name. And it’s through God’s power knowing even through experiencing adversity, hurdles, and unplanned events; He always delivers and helps us meet our goals. In Psalms 46:10 it is written, “Be still and know that I am God…” In the many translations the word peace is shown as stop your fighting, stop your striving, cease, let go and return, all translations assuring us even when we are alone He is there with us. “What a lovely surprise to finally discover how un-lonely being alone can be.” -Ellen Burstyn

I encourage each of us to find time to be still, find peace, reflect, rebuild you inner compass, and make sure the needle is set to true north. It will make a difference in your life and the lives of others. Psalms 46:10

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AmTech APIC Winner January

AmTech Winners:  www.amtech.net

 

AmTech’s APIC Winner for January – Brandon Keel.  AmTech’s Process Improvement Committee selects a winner each month.  Brandon works in Wire Cutting and Terminating.

Have a great day.  www.amtech.net

sorry i wasnt paying attention

Sorry, I wasn’t paying attention - www.amtech.net

By James Dodwell – Hammers of Hope  
 
Good Morning,

I want to apologize up front for not keeping everyone updated. I was thinking about it recently and was going to say something a few days ago but it completely slipped my mind. I just forgot, it happens as we get older, we start to say something, then a bird flies by the window, we get distracted, our conversation ebbs then the subject gets changed and we find ourselves just rambling on and on about nothing. Kind of like now, but I am doing it to make a point, or am I? What I want to tell you is there are only 198 shopping days left until Christmas. There now, aren’t you glad you know that little tid-bit of information so you can get your shopping started? Sure you are.

I don’t like to admit it but my mind wanders on occasions when I should be listening to a person discussing an issue, telling me about something important to them or just catching up on what has been happening in their lives. Usually, I am sitting quietly facing them, nodding or shaking my head in agreement or disagreement as the person speaks so the person will think I am paying attention. When in reality my mind is blank canvas and their words fall on deaf ears. It is not very polite or professional; we should always take time to listen intently when others respect us enough to share something important to them or come to us for advice.

When others come to us to have a conversation, they view us as a mentor, a leader, a problem-solver, a confidant and friend. It is our responsibility to show respect and honor for these “titles” placed upon us by them. We are not gifted these “titles”, we earn them with our actions and reactions to events experienced in our life and we communicate these in our daily walk through our encouraging words, our helping hands, our character, our integrity, all rolled into a caring individual with knowledge and wisdom to pour into the lives of others. We as leaders are reminded the gift to be able to offer others hope and assist them with their walk is a privilege that should not be taken lightly and should always, always be used to teach and educate, not ridicule or criticize. 

Relationships and leadership are married together and cannot be divorced. We as leaders must learn to relate to people based on a decision, not a reaction. Ultimately, we must love people regardless of what they can give in return. We as leaders must not treat a rich person better than a poor person. Love must be given unconditionally. This isn’t saying we must treat everyone the same, what it is saying is that we must relate to each individual based on his or her inward gifts, not outward gifts. We as leaders must identify talents and gifts in others, and then place the individuals in a position to encourage them to use their gifts in order to reach their potential.

If a leader has an issue with loving people and reaching people then that leader has to learn to love them based on an unconditional decision. Look toward the positive aspects of the individual, learn to accept where they are in life and lean into them as you pour into their life. When it comes to filling positions and find someone for certain tasks, place them according to their giftedness. A person’s life passion may not be their gift, it is their passion. Look for the thing they do without much effort, the thing they can’t stand by and watch while it is being done or something they are the first to volunteer to tackle. This is their area of giftedness and strength.

We as leaders must provide recognition to others. We must recognize everyone’s value and contribution. We must communicate it publically not in a bragging way but in a way that honors them and what they do. We as leaders must provide affirmation. This needs to be done based on the needs of the individual. Some people need affirmation others don’t but everyone likes to know you care. It goes along with the saying, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”

I encourage all of us today to be a mentor, leader, and teacher for others with our walk and our talk. We must understand that to connect with others hearts we must use our ears. Good leaders motivate others by their listening skills and then acting on what they hear. It will make a difference and add value to others and to us. James 2:1-9

www.amtech.net 

Some Truth

Some truth, but not complete - www.amtech.net

By James Dodwell - Hammers of Hope
 
Good Morning,

In NASCAR it’s called “Silly” season, when rumors of drivers leaving one racing team for another, or shop talk escalates about a driver being “let go” swirls around the circuit and eventually makes the news. Some of the “rumors” are true but a rather large percentage of them are not so true. Sometimes the teams “cook up” these stories just to draw a little more attention and support to the driver or their sponsor. It is a known fact, that the more something gets repeated the more people believe it to be true. It becomes the de facto truth, in other words, not quite the whole story but not really un-true, either.

Several years ago, when rumors were rampant in our city about changes to organizations, jobs, people’s lives it became a very stressful time in our community and created a lingering effect on the city’s leaders and its residents. Again, some of them held truth, a truth so devastating it was difficult to understand how anyone could spin such a yarn about downsizing the largest textile employer in the area, no pun intended. However, the truth was revealed and now is even more visible with the removal of the buildings that once were filled with employees making a living for their families. The truth is more telling in the frustration of the city’s residents as they watch a city government devourer each other in public meetings and attack each other on a personal level instead of working together to rebuild a great community.

The recent happenings publicized in the media remind us that if our ethics are not borne out of our convictions, they may shift and change with the tide of the culture or with what is convenient for us. When ethics are formed out of spiritual convictions, they are unchanging. When the latter is the process we have a standard that is transcendent beyond our personal preference. The strongest ethics come out of us as, First -Generosity. This is when we reach the point that our ethics must revolve around giving ourselves away, such as, serving others in our community, in our walk, in our personal and professional life, and so on a so forth.

Second is Justice, with this our ethics revolve around justice for all, not some self-serving desire that betters us rather than benefiting the multitudes. Third is Excellence, this by allowing our ethics to revolve around setting a standard above average. As leaders, in the community, our homes and our places of worship we have to maintain an excellence in our lives that sets the standard for others who are watching and learning from us. Think of our children, our future leaders and what message are we sending them? Where do they draw the line when they become our leaders? Get all you can from others or do all you can for others?

Fourth is Service. As was just mentioned this is where our ethics must revolve around adding value to other people and making a positive difference in their lives. A positive difference, a positive difference, a positive difference, I say this three times just as Dorothy did in the Wizard of Oz when she said, “There’s no place like home, There’s no place like home, THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME!” You get it? This is our home, our people, we have a responsibility to all those who labored and came before us and if we don’t do everything we can to make a positive difference we are doing our community a disservice.

Last but not least is Convictions. Our ethics must revolve around a firm inward compass. Ethics result from this inward compass. A conviction is a strong belief that so governs our decisions that we are willing to die for it. History is full of leaders who changed the world because of their convictions. I ask you, where are those leaders today? Believe it or not they walk among us, work beside us, they are our neighbors and friends. Encourage them to get involved, if you know them. Support them, pray for them, and be of service to them as we, together, make this community and our country great again. 2 Chronicles 7:14

www.amtech.net