Today's Challenge: Big Decisions

In Great Leaders Grow, Ken Blanchard and I provided some sample questions you might consider asking of a more seasoned leader. I received a request from a reader to answer those questions. I’ll do that over the next few weeks. Today’s Challenge: What decisions in your life have made the greatest contributions to your success?

I’m glad to answer this question with one disclaimer - I believe virtually all of our decisions matter. However, as we look back on our lives, most of us have an intuitive sense regarding which decisions had the greatest impact. Here are some of my most important decisions…
My decision to become a follower of Jesus. He has forgiven my past, He strengthens me in the present and He has secured my future.
My decision to marry my high school sweetheart. Last year, Donna and I celebrated 30 years of marriage. She challenges me, encourages me and puts up with me. She also edits my posts, which you should be thankful for!
My decision regarding my ultimate accountability. Colossians 3:23 is a verse in the Bible which tells followers of Jesus to work for God and not for men. This single decision helps me make many other day-to-day decisions.
My decision to join Chick-fil-A. As with many of life’s big decisions, the implications may not be apparent in the moment. I could never have guessed the impact Chick-fil-A would have on me and my family.
My decision to pursue life-long learning. I believe our capacity to grow determines our capacity to lead. I’m not a natural “learner.” I made a strategic decision over 30 years ago to learn to learn. That is the single most important career decision I’ve made.
My decision to learn to be a servant leader. I believe servant leadership is the highest and best form of leadership. It is as countercultural today as it was 2000 years ago… it still works!
My decision to invest my time carefully. I believe time is the leader’s most valuable asset. Where we invest our time matters more than anything else we do. This is not a decision to be made once – it is a moment-by-moment, daily decision.
My decision to cultivate my public speaking skills. Leadership always begins with a picture of the future; leaders have the opportunity and the challenge of being the voice of that future. Without clear, compelling communication, followship is unlikely.
My decision to write. Writing has been a tremendous catalyst for my personal growth. It has also increased my opportunity to serve leaders around the world – over 500,000 books in print, in 28 languages so far. I’m glad I decided to write.[GLS_Shield]
What decisions in your life have made the greatest contributions to your success?

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