Speaking about my title

I had the opportunity to talk to the people in my company. I am a partner with one other guy and together we own a construction company. This year at our Christmas Eve breakfast we had about 65 in attendance. We always bring everyone in at Christmas Eve to go over benefits, have a meal together and then dismiss as early as we can so we can all enjoy the holiday. Rick and I will always have a few things to say, kind of a state of the company address as well as a time to recognize individuals accomplishments in our company.

So when my time came up to talk, I shared about how all the different parts of our company contributed to the companies success. I shared about where we were in the market place. In fifteen years we have become the second largest business in our market by volume. We have a great reputation and a lot to be proud of.

So at the end of talking about what we had all done, I ended by talking about my philosophy of leading like a sinner. Such that our leaders don't lead by sinning, but rather lead with the knowledge that we sin, we fall short and we make mistakes. In fact, everyone does. So that if the leaders acknowledge this, and can be transparent with the bone headed things we sometimes do, we can create a culture were we all are open with the things that we fail at, and as we do that, and help one another, have grace for one another, we all grow and get better. It is a path that allows a group of imperfect people to grow in doing almost perfect work.

As I was saying these things, it was interesting to see all the heads in the room look at me. They all made eye contact with me. Most of them nodded, acknowledging that what I was saying was true. It was a profound experience for me, to speak in a way that captured the attention of everyone in the room. Not because I was a flashy speaker, but because what I was saying rang true in every one's hearts.

I am more excited about this message, because of this little 20 second experience, of seeing my employee's respond. My goal is to have my rough draft of the book done this year. I hope that is not too small of a goal. But it seems right at the moment.

Happy New Year!