The LECturn: On Execution

Any kind of real "achievement" requires Execution. Deeds, over words. Consistent effort defines outcome. Times of change and challenge demand new habits and actions, requiring Execution. Continuing with The LECturn... this Weekend I was inspired after an engaging online and group-based 3 hour session with Linda Kavelin-Popov ... to reflect and consider on Character and Execution. I have long contended that Character, Purpose and Unity are fundamental forces for leadership. Enter Character-driven Execution. And so, I then posted on LinkedIn:

"Yesterday evening, I had the good fortune, blessing and Wisdom to attend a session led by Linda Kavelin-Popov organized by Dara Feldman and Dave Feldman ... focusing on reflections from the year past and forward... and drawing upon the 5 Strategies of The Virtues Project.... including what is called a 5 Card Spread. I have deeply respected and believed in this body of work since 2002. I have been a practitioner, Facilitator and Master Facilitator of this deep and rich content. That said, yesterday I had the opportunity to apply such to my own Next Chapter... and found new insights.

With a 5 Card Spread, you essentially focus on a matter ahead... in this case, my personal and professional Vision created through my (now) developing tangling art. You meditate on same (your matter of Consideration) and then draw Virtues cards for...

• Core Virtue... the Virtue that is core to the matter. In my case, Friendliness. I see this relevant and resonant in terms of the new Paths and Circles about to unfold, and those already within my Circle I treasure and Trust. This is a Year of finding new (and strengthening existing) relationships of cool and genuine meaning. That sings to this boy.

• Guiding Virtue ... the Virtue that will guide in decision making and action. In my case, Sincerity. This speaks to me of authenticity and the real thing. If it is insincere, I will not be part. Sincerity of meaning and Purpose will be my guide in all I choose to do.

• Strength Virtue.. the Virtue that will provide Fortitude and backbone to proceeding forward. In my case, Love. This speaks to me in terms of staying true to my "north star" if you will... choosing to love what I do and do what I love, and reminding myself amidst some of the "necessary" work ... of why I am doing what I am doing. Loving my mission, and reminding myself of my Just Cause... Humans Together Strong. Each day, taking time to dial back and consider what and who I Love ... re-centering daily.

• Sustaining Virtue... the Virtue that will enable us to stay the course, enduringly on the Path. In my case, Serenity. Taking daily time to be serene. Oases of such. Early morn and eventide. Again an opportunity to re-center in Quietude.

• Growth/Challenge Virtue... the Virtue that needs added practice along the Way. In my case, Contentment. Yup, the Understanding of enough each day. This is not about settling, but it is about being content where I am, when I am.

And then I did a Virtues pick for the Year. Assertiveness was the result. A Year of practice around same. While I have long practiced Courage and developed a strong and healthy sense of Confidence ... this speaks to me of taking on new Paths with same. Uncharted territory. New manifestations of Service. Learning anew, assertively.

With a clear vision in head and heart, now it is about execution and learning along the way. The 5 Card Spread and the Virtue of the Year help immeasurably for me now. I recommend the exercise wholeheartedly."

That All Said

Character is a powerful and foundational piece to execution. It matters. I suggest that it is a huge part of our chief task in Life. The 5 Card Spread can serve to identify what aspects of Character (what Virtues) are being called to action in moving on a matter of meaning. Take the time to consider a meaningful matter ahead that requires your best attention and intention. Then do the 5 Card Spread. And engage the Execution, with Character.

Justice, Peace and Unity...

Barry Lewis Green, aka The Unity Guy with Epic Engage

• My work is that I am a Leadership Educator, Speaker, Coach and Creator helping Educators, Entrepreneurs and Emerging Leaders working to build a better world at school, work, business and community... through the advancement of Character, Purpose and Unity. I help nobilize leadership, mobilize mission and humanize culture. I hold conversation around same, and advance action towards. It is what unites us... and I am The Unity Guy. Let us Aim High.

• The LECturn is a more random initiative offering up thought for Leaducators, Emergents and Communitrepreneurs around Character, Purpose and Unity as 3 fundamental forces for leadership at home, school, work, business and community. The articles are short, surgical and value-driven for real time and the real-world.... drawing on 40+ years in leadership training and development.