Four Questions to Ask to Seize Everyday

Every day that we are blessed to wake up is a day just waiting for us to seize. A new day with unlimited opportunity for leaders to encourage; to empower; and to engage. However, as leaders, we know that seizing a new day doesn’t just happen. Here are four questions leaders can use to seize the day!

1. What are three things that I am grateful for that happened yesterday?

One of the easiest ways to set the tone for the day is to begin with gratitude. Gratitude is not something that comes naturally for most of us. Yes, I am guilty of being ungrateful. Yet, in this season we are in, it is even more important to develop this virtue in our lives.

Experts in behavioral sciences are now writing about the importance of developing the virtue of gratitude. Some have suggested that gratitude affects depression, motivation, and other mental health issues. Some writings speak of having the clients write notes or letters of gratitude as part of their therapy. 

The need to express gratitude is nothing new for those of us who follow the teachings of Christianity. The teachings found in the Bible are full of expressions of gratitude. We can also see the effects of expressed gratitude in the parable Christ told concerning the one leper out of the ten lepers who returned to express his gratitude to Christ for being healed. This one who returned received even a greater blessing. (Luke 17:11-19)

2. What is the most powerful lesson learned from yesterday’s successes or failures?

Taking a moment each morning to think through the scenarios of yesterday to glean from the successes and failures is a discipline practiced by some of the most influential leaders. What was learned that can be applied today? It is a means for keeping oneself in check. It is also a means for holding oneself accountable.

In almost every leadership book I read there is this common theme that appears as a key trait for great leaders. The trait is self-awareness. Some say. “To lead others effectively, you must first learn to lead yourself well.”

Once, when I was attending a John Maxwell Conference, I heard John answer the question, “What has been your greatest challenge as a leader?”. His response was profound! He responded by saying, “Leading me”.

This question about the practice of taking time to think through the lessons learned from yesterday forces one to first lead themselves well before leading others. It allows one to be more self-aware of the influence their actions, their decisions; and their words can have on the day ahead of them. This question can also keep one from having a status quo day or from making the same mistake twice. It can also help increase one's chances of succeeding again.

Not taking the time to answer this question can be foolish on the part of a leader. It actually can be pride when one is not willing to self-assess.

3. Who did I intentionally encourage; empower; and/or engage yesterday?

As leaders, we can seize each day, increasing its chances of being the best day we have yet to live by reflecting on this important relational question. By doing so, it reminds us that a vital characteristic of a true leader is influence. This question forces one to think through the agenda of the day, asking:

•  Who will I seek to encourage today?
• How might I empower others to succeed?
• How much time will I allot to engage with others?

Leadership is about people. It is the simple practice of loving your neighbor more than loving yourself. The practice of self-denial; of putting others first. 

4. What is the one task if accomplished today has the potential to produce the greatest return on investment?

At the beginning of every day there are usually 10 to 20, maybe even more things that are urgent or important, and sometimes they are both urgent and important. Good leaders take the time at the beginning of each day to evaluate their “to-do” list looking for tasks they can delegate. From this point, the leader can go even deeper to identify from the remaining list the one thing that has the potential to produce the greatest return on investment. Not the easiest thing, but the thing with the most potential for the greatest ROI.

Now take a moment tomorrow morning to ask yourself these four question. Then, message me and share how this discipline helped today be the best day ever! If I can help, send me a direct message! Go seize your day!