Servant Leadership # 2

I am on a journey to discover the power of servant leadership and how to apply that power within my marriage, family, career, and dreams. Every thing I study on this subject comes back to one statement "being selfless rather than selfish". Yes it is counter-intuitive, and yes I ask myself often "If I'm working to serve and help others, who is going to help me"?

We are selfish by nature and nothing is more important at times than "Me". Right? But, what if in pursuing self, we were actually chasing the wrong things to find true fulfillment? What if the key to a fulfilling life of purpose was actually based on serving others?

In September of 2015 I was brutally mauled by a 600 pound Alaskan grizzly. I teetered on the cliff of death and looked directly into that abyss. If you read my bio you will see I fully invested into this world's definition of what a real man should be and what it takes to prove that. I can tell you when the last bit of blood is draining from your body and you are faced with what may be your final thoughts on earth...You are not thinking about your accomplishments in life.

The only things that matter at that very moment of passing from life to death are the close intimate relationships with God and family. Nothing else mattered. Your wife, your children, your dad, your mom, and especially God are all that matter. As my breath became more labored and it seemed my heart's ability to sustain life was quickly coming to an end, I realized in many ways I had not been chasing what really matters in life. I had some really big regrets as I lie physically broken on that cold wet ground. It was one of those moments where you find yourself silently saying "If I could only go back and have one more chance to do it right"! If you are a man, listen close to what I am about to say. Its not what people see from the outside that makes you a man, its about what you let out of your heart into your relationships that bring true life and purpose as a man.

So I had a lot of catching up to do once I fully recovered from the attack. I set my mind to being a servant. I still have a long way to go in perfecting my skills as a servant leader. Its uncomfortable to live inside out as a man and place your greatest value into a life of building intimate relationships. When a man begins to invest in relationships the way he has invested in careers, accomplishments and hobbies his life is completely changed for the better. I am no expert at living a completely selfless life, but I am daily trying to build that skill. Here is an example of the little ways I am trying to display servant leadership and a selfless attitude. I responded to a recent contact on LinkedIn with this. People long to have their ideas and their lives cared about by other people. Try it....it will change your life.

I wish you all the hope and luck in the world my friend with publishing your book. It is a long but rewarding process. It is natural for all of us to leverage social media to chase our dreams and goals in life. I do the same but I also spend just as much time encouraging others in their dreams and taking the time to reach out and see if there is anything I can do to help them. I have found when you place others before yourself your dreams and goals just seem to happen. The biggest benefit is the overwhelming peace, joy, and fulfillment that fills your life and your heart. I have never been more fulfilled than when I help others. Is there anything I can do for you to help you reach your goals Mark. Let me know....even if it is just to pray for the Lord’s will I am willing. Have a great day and take a moment to help someone else have a great day. Take care and good luck. Greg