Turn Back to Move Forward: Leadership Lessons from Unfinished Business.

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Dear Readers,

In this edition, I share a timeless tale that resonates especially as we approach new beginnings—be it a month, a season, or a year. The story of a son, Isaac, who inherited his father Abraham's prosperous agricultural business, highlights the essence of effective leadership.

The Ancient Story:

After Abraham's death, rivals filled his wells with earth, disrupting Isaac's operations. Despite local herdsmen contesting his rights, Isaac, determined to honor his father's legacy, embarked on a mission to redig the old wells. Through perseverance and a commitment to community, Isaac not only revitalized the land but also reinforced his presence, reviving his family's legacy.

Making it Relevant:

In our fast-paced world, the ability to remain poised, consistent, and agile is crucial. New beginnings often tempt us to abandon ongoing projects for fresh starts, leaving behind unfinished tasks. Reflecting on Isaac's story, we see the value in revisiting and completing these projects to unlock growth and ensure legacy preservation.

Turning Back to Move Forward: The Importance of Revising Unfinished Projects.

For leaders and professionals, the old wells are all around us in our draft folders, notepads, journals etc. That are brimming with concepts, ideas and projects started but sidelined for various reasons?—?be it lack of time, resources, or shifting priorities. Yet, these abandoned projects are not merely remnants of what could have been; they are wells of potential that can foster new growth and opportunities.

These benefits include?—?

Resource Optimization: Like Isaac reusing old wells, leaders can build momentum by revisiting unfinished projects, optimizing resources without starting from scratch.

Learning from the Past: Each paused project offers lessons on project management, team dynamics, and personal effectiveness, enhancing future strategies and decisions.

Innovation through Reflection: Returning to sidelined projects can ignite innovative ideas, providing fresh perspectives that were previously overlooked.

Completion Brings Satisfaction: Finishing a project not only boosts morale but also strengthens reputation and credibility.

Practical Steps to Unearth Your Forgotten Wells

Prioritize Wisely: Focus on projects that align with your strategic goals and have current relevance.

Allocate Resources Thoughtfully: Determine the necessary resources for completion, reallocating time, budget, or personnel as needed.

Set Realistic Goals: Establish clear, achievable objectives to keep efforts focused and manageable.

Celebrate Milestones: Recognize progress to motivate the team and acknowledge the effort involved.

Call to Action

1. This week, as much as you can, suspend new initiatives and review your draft folders.
2. Select one project with the highest potential impact that aligns with your vision and commit to completion.
3. Engage key stakeholders and resources to assist along the way.

Remember, leadership is demonstrated not only in starting new ventures but in the tenacity to finish existing ones and you don’t need permission to reopen your wells.

Here’s to a great month or year of rediscovery and completion!

Dr. Flo

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