The Neuroscience of Leadership

New category added to the Servant Leadership Google+ Community. The Neuroscience of Leadership.

What we think, how we think, act and communicate makes a difference. While any authentic leader knows this to be true by their experiences, it is empowering to learn from research that developing one's emotional self-awareness is key to developing others. What do you do to be more emotionally self-aware?

Link to Neuroscience of Leadership: The Promise of Insights

ZMap tool to think through developing your attention and awareness.

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group

ZFactor blog explores and discusses a variety of techniques, tools and discoveries by successful people that will assist others to achieve greater personal and professional success. ZFactor is a proprietary coaching methodology based upon the premise that successful people think, act and communicate differently. The ZFactor methodology is proven to accelerate personal, professional and business growth.

A Lifetime Of Servant Leadership

We celebrated the life of my Mother-in-law, Jo, this past weekend. She lived a full and complete life, never one to rest, especially when her love and passions for family, friends, fellowship, faith, food, fun, art, home, music and dance were involved. 

Which meant JoJo (her grandmother name and how all fondly referred to her) was always in motion as she established more than twenty-three amazing homes during her husband's career, raised three children, fed, nurtured and loved numerous friends, extended family (as needed) and produced hundreds of works of art and embroidered items.

JoJo left a significant legacy of love and devotion to be remembered, embraced and kept alive through the significant accomplishments of her husband, children, in-laws, grandchildren, nieces, nephews and anyone she met who befriended any of her immediate family.

JoJo's oldest daughter and my wife +Cindy Goldsberry describes JoJo's exceptional traits and characteristics of servant leadership.

• Jo Jo was humble in spirit; there was no hint of pride or privilege despite her abundant talents and blessings. 

• Jo Jo was compassionate about the trials and suffering of others, both in their lives life and at the time of their passing. 

• Jo Jo showed tolerance and humility; she was easily imposed upon and quick to serve. 

• Jo Jo lived a virtuous and admirable life; this is evidenced by her work, her words, and her actions. 

• Jo Jo was quick to forgive and slow to punitive action. 

• Jo Jo saw only the best in people.

• Jo Jo had no time for ongoing discord. She never lamented on an unsettled dispute; she didn't engage in grudges or encourage their practice. 

• Jo Jo had no desire to dwell-upon, or even remember hurtful words and insensitive actions.

• Jo Jo honored God with and in her talents; she left a household of beautiful artwork and memorable meals as a tribute to the gifts He gave her.

Mathew 5:13-16
"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot."

"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

Jo loved angels. Now she is one.

Thank you JoJo for modeling the way of genuine, authentic servant leadership where it truly makes a difference for all. JoJo's obituary. 

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

ZFactor blog explores and discusses a variety of techniques, tools and discoveries by successful people that will assist others to achieve greater personal and professional success. ZFactor is a proprietary coaching methodology based upon the premise that successful people think and act differently. The ZFactor methodology is proven to accelerate a person's ability to think and act differently.

Previous blog on JoJo's battle with cancer. A Quick Rant About Cancer

Graduation - The Future Of Leadership Is Back

"Can you be the change you want to see in the world?"

~Mahatma Gandhi

Thank God for graduations. This is one of those seasons of life when we catch a glimpse of the future. Young men and women celebrating their achievements with family and friends and commencement addresses compel graduates to look into their future with faith, hope, love and dreams. Deepak Chopra has one of the more poignant addresses for 2013. (link below)

With heightened emotions, all are building expectations for the future with recently acquired knowledge that pales in comparison to the development of one's character and personal values empowered by faith, hope, love and dreams. These are the essential elements of being a sustainable leader. Gaining the knowledge, tested time and again, has resulted in a diploma that has become the cornerstone of one's future.

Everyone's diploma says all have learned the basics. There may be some minor differences in grade point averages, but what becomes more and more critically important to propel one forward into their desired future...

I Will Greet This Day With Love In My Heart (Just Do It)

This is dedicated to +Og Mandino, author and a great man, who has taught me and hundreds of millions to be better men and women.

Kudos to Jason Black, CEO of +Boundless Network, who gave the book "The Greatest Salesman In The World" to the 100+ sales professionals during an annual sales event. My wife, +Cindy Goldsberry, who helped Boundless grow from $1MM to $55MM in six years, was asked to read the second scroll entitled - I will greet this day with love in my heart. Jason knows what's really important for success and he knows how to leverage available resources to deliver a meaningful message. Way to go, Jason!

As Cindy shares this with me, I am inspired to pull my personal copy of the book off the shelf for four reasons: 

When Does The Leader Make A Difference?

This blog title began germinating early last week week after a friend posted a link to an article "People Don't Leave Companies, They Leave Leaders." 

By the end of the week, he let me know he had left his job. I'm assuming he had considered his departure and the article may have quickened his decision. We get together this coming week and I'll find out more.

The premise of the article - it really is all about the quality of the leadership. This should be a quick kick in the rear for anyone in a leadership role. Being the leader really does mean - within the domain of your authority, everything and everyone is your responsibility. A leader is absolutely held accountable for what they think, do and say. In the case of this friend, the difference the leader made appears to not be positive for the company.

If the leader is not learning why good people are leaving that leader may not realize good people won't put up with low quality leadership. (later in this blog, you can learn how to measure the quality of leadership) 

If a leader is not willing to learn why people are leaving, they are not learning to think differently and they will not act differently. They keep doing the same thing expecting different results. Such leaders keep running off good people and eventually attract only people who will put up with a low quality leader. The result is the low quality leader finally gets fired. Einstein identified that as insanity. And, there is a solution for leaders who are willing to think and act differently than they have in the past.

Leaders Need A Roadmap In Order To Meet People Where They Are

Whenever I hear stories of good people leaving because of the leader, it makes me wonder if both the leader and the employee have a roadmap so each knows where the other is on the map. While they may have clearly defined job descriptions, I find very few leaders truly have the capability to meet people where they are. 

In other words, does a leader know:

• What's important to the employee? 
• What are their development or resource needs so they can excel at their job? 

Most leaders want people to meet the leader where they are. Ironically the leader expects people to do this without any kind of roadmap. By the way an organizational chart is not a roadmap.

Thousands of books and millions of articles about leadership attempt to define the traits and characteristics of leaders and create labels for the various types of leaders. Traits, characteristics and labels are like the streets, roads, cities and towns on a roadmap. Very important information, but it's only of value when you can accurately pinpoint where you are on the roadmap, making it easy for you to plan how to get to your destination.

Without a leadership roadmap, leaders typically wander around making it difficult for others to follow. A wandering leader (most don't know they are wandering), will not ever truly get to the heart and soul of WHEN and how authentic leadership makes all the difference. 

This infographic is a basic leadership roadmap I use with leaders. After an initial use of this infographic, it becomes easy to tailor a leadership roadmap to any leader and/or any situation. Take a moment to review before you read the rest of this blog.

How To Know The "WHEN"

A leader who understands the "when" of leadership will know the right thing to do, with the right people at the right time. This takes ongoing practice, making a leadership roadmap essential.

Yet, even with the roadmap, the "when" of leadership is like looking for the hidden image in an autostereogram. Autostereograms are computer generated 2D images that create 3D visual illusions in the brain. Sometimes you see it and sometimes you don't. It takes practice and skill to be able to consistently see the hidden images.

While any leader can look at a 2D image (what's easy to see about a situation), authentic leaders have developed the skill and knowing to consistently see the hidden 3D images (what's driving a situation). When the leader can clearly understand the how, why and what of leadership, it becomes easier for them to know when they are most likely to make a meaningful difference.

Why A Leader Struggles With The When - Low Capacity

Based upon my personal leadership experience and numerous opportunities to work with leaders at all levels, I know a leader begins to leave their struggles behind when the leader fully embraces the concept that an authentic leader is one who serves versus being served. 

The moment they become a servant-focused leader their leadership roadmap becomes like the autostereogram and the "when" becomes like the hidden 3D images. Not easy to see, but consistent practice starts producing different and meaningful results. And, other people begin to see how quality leadership makes a difference. 

No matter how much a leader knows about leadership, it is only when the leader genuinely understands that leadership competencies only make a difference when integrated with a servant-focus. When a leader has this understanding they know how and what to do, why they do it and, most importantly, the right time (when) to do it. 

Time and again, during conversations with leaders, the less their servant-focus, the lower their capacity for dealing with all the people, situations, changes and uncertainties that come with the role of leader. A leader with low capacity will struggle. It is easy to recognize a struggling leader because you will hear them make "either/or" type statements. They will say things like, "Either Joe gets with the program or he will be fired!" 

The leader's comments and opinions are typically stated as if everything is either black or white. This same leader will also have wide and abrupt mood swings. They blame others and often even appear bipolar. A leader with low capacity is easily overwhelmed and has very little self control to take time to think "gray" about a situation versus always reacting in a black or white manner. The lower a leader's capacity, the lower their ability to exercise genuine leadership competencies.

An authentic leader will be just the opposite of this "either/or" type leader. The authentic leader will be skilled at "both/and" thinking. Both/And thinking opens an authentic leader's mind to new possibilities (see the gray), making it easier to see when to do the right things. They have trained their brain to see the when, like being able to see the autostereogram 3D images, in their mind. An authentic leader will have the capacity to think through a variety of scenarios until they are able to know when to act and with whom.

How To Instantly Measure Authentic Leadership

The infographic is called a ZMap. For a leader this ZMap empowers you to quickly pinpoint which quadrant best defines your current level of leadership. Once you pinpoint where you are, it becomes easy to design your development plan to get to where you want to be. If you work with a leader, you can use this same ZMap to gain some insight, understanding and appreciation for a leader's quality of leadership.

While the topic of leadership can be a very complex discussion, this ZMap quickly cuts through all the noise. Once you know where you are it is simple to plan the journey to your destination. Authentic, sustainable leaders have developed a personal leadership roadmap though trial and error. They use it to know when to do the right thing with the right people at the right time.

A leader can use this simple ZMap to quickly develop a personal leadership roadmap much faster than the traditional leadership development processes. When you know where you are on this ZMap, you can instantly focus on what you need and know where to find or ask for the right resources to help you improve your quality of leadership.

It Begins With Being Honest With Yourself

Answer these two statements and pinpoint where they intersect on the ZMap. 

• Rank your Leadership Competencies. (Y axis) The higher your knowledge and execution of quality leadership competencies, the higher your point on the Y axis.
• Rank your Servant-Focus. (X axis) The more time you spend thinking about serving those who work with you and actually doing and being a servant leader, the further out on the X axis is your pinpoint.

Based upon where these two points intersect, what are your thoughts about where you find yourself on the ZMap and what actions do you see you need to take to get to where you want to be? 

When I work with leaders, this simple ZMap gets the two of us on the same page and engaged into a meaningful discussion that creates immediate and lasting value for the leader. More information on how to plan your leadership development journey will be shared in future blogs. 

My experience is those leaders who genuinely want to improve will take this ZMap and get started by first observing what they think, say and do - and begin making appropriate changes. This blog reviews how to become a skillful thinker.

I encourage you to do the same. You will be amazed at how quickly you begin to start thinking differently and experiencing when your leadership makes positive, meaningful differences for others.

Best to your becoming a servant-focused leader.

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

ZFactor blog explores and discusses a variety of techniques, tools and discoveries by successful people that will assist others to achieve greater personal and professional success. ZFactor is a proprietary coaching methodology based upon the premise that successful people think and act differently. The ZFactor methodology is proven to accelerate a person's ability to think and act differently.

The Best Way To Become A Sustainable Leader!

Anyone truly serious about becoming a highly capable, sustainable leader can easily find leadership development opportunities in any number of community, school or worship communities. It doesn't make any difference about your age or whether you have ever been in a leadership role or you have years of experience in management and leadership roles. If you genuinely desire to develop your leadership skills, get involved in serving others.

One of my "just curious" questions I ask leaders is to give a quick history of their volunteer service, starting with high school. Those leaders with consistent volunteer service are simply more mature, sustainable, servant-minded leaders. Individuals who get involved in service work in high school and college will have numerous opportunities to experience leading others. They are also the ones who will experience faster personal, professional and leadership growth than their peers in the workplace.

Likewise, for anyone at any age. Even if you didn't take advantage of such opportunities in your early years and you think you have limited opportunities where you work, then today is always a good day to get involved and become a volunteer. Find an organization you can truly believe in their purpose and mission. You will not only experience personal growth, but you will be serving others and making a difference in other people's lives.

If you are older, wiser and more experienced, don't think you should immediately be on the board of directors. Get your hands in the dirt. That means be willing to work alongside others and do whatever is needed, especially the grunt work. Really get to know other people who are serving. The key thing to remember - It's not about you. Be like the Undercover Boss.

Anyone who gets involved and is willing to do whatever is needed will find new doors opening up for them in the workplace. it was three young guys in 1920 who wanted more management responsibility in their respective companies. The opportunities weren't there and changing jobs was not an option, so they began doing service projects in the community. Soon, others joined them, the young men got promotions at work and they created the United States Jaycees. 

I believe the future is one of incredible opportunity as I watch young people today get involved in serving others. It's as if volunteering is genetic for them. Imagine the future our emerging leaders are building!

And, if you are a boomer retiring and looking for something to do and find yourself sometimes complaining about today's youth. Become a volunteer. You will find numerous opportunities for mentoring.

Happy Volunteering and Making A Difference,


~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

ZFactor blog explores and discusses a variety of techniques, tools and discoveries by successful people that will assist others to achieve greater personal and professional success. ZFactor is a proprietary coaching methodology based upon the premise that successful people think and act differently. The ZFactor methodology is proven to accelerate a person's ability to think and act differently.

Thanks to Karrie, whose post in the LinkedIn Servant Leadership Group inspired this blog!

What's Your Lifetime Value Potential?

You can easily estimate how much money you will make over your lifetime. Have you ever pondered on your potential to create value for others over your lifetime?

Through my work with ZFactor Group, I get to see people make this simple shift in their mindset. Imagine the possibilities when you focus on creating value for others. My experience is when people do this, their lifetime earnings potential increases substantially.

This is why ZFactor publications focus on Revealing And Releasing Your Untapped Potential. When people choose to think, act and communicate differently, it's like they have finally found that essential key to success.

ZFactor books helps others find their key for success by providing a:

1. Simple map to plot where you are; 
2. Compass to determine the direction you want to go; and, 
3. Guide of defining characteristics to help you know what to do to bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be.

Through our various engagements with others - comments from readers, presentations, coaching sessions or workshops - we are continually amazed at how quickly people shift the way they think about their current situation as they recognize where they are and have a simple map. As people embrace thinking differently, they immediately find themselves in the midst of a personal transformation that propels them from me-focus to others-focus. 

There is no complicated formula or long drawn out training or session-after-session with a guru to figure out the meaning of life. It begins with stop focusing on yourself and focus on others. Sometimes, it can even be as simple as a good friend, Peter Strople, describes how one question can create Instant Change. 

It is in this transformation when people immediately become what we refer to as Value Creators. Instantly, their expertise, knowledge, talents and skills can be focused on moving their life forward and/or a new idea, concept, project, team or organization. The result - other people benefit as you increase their financial value and your lifetime financial value potential increases, as well. And, being others focused doesn't have to be about financial value.

So, what's your choice? Will you maintain a me-focus or will you ponder the question - "What's Your Lifetime Value Potential?" If you are ready for Instant Change in your life, you will choose to ponder the question, engage into thinking, acting and communicating differently and develop a deep understanding for making a difference and creating value for others. 

If you choose to ponder the question, I guarantee your life will change and you will experience all you have ever imagined possible and most likely experience the impossible, as well.

Happy pondering...

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

ZFactor blog explores and discusses a variety of techniques, tools and discoveries by successful people that will assist others to achieve greater personal and professional success. ZFactor is a proprietary coaching methodology based upon the premise that successful people think and act differently. The ZFactor methodology is proven to accelerate a person's ability to think and act differently.

The genesis of this blog is based upon a current engagement by ZFactor Author, Cindy Goldsberry, who is in collaboration with Zilliant, who provides companies with data-driven guidance, enabling smarter pricing and sales decisions to help businesses increase profitable sales. Read Cindy's blog for more information. Learn how Zilliant is definitely a Value Creator for their clients. In fact, they can measure how much more financial financial they provide to their clients.

Other Important Links:

Instant Change (Friends of Peter)

Lifetime Earnings Calculator

Age of Radical Thinking With Heart And Soul

"I think a major act of leadership right now, call it a radical act, is to create the places and processes so people can actually learn together, using our experiences." ~Margaret J. Wheatley

We stand in the midst of radical social change because radical thinking servant leaders with the expertise and wisdom empowered with heart and soul are standing up, speaking out and leading others to learn and work together to create solutions only dreamed by prior generations.

A smart leader today is both a radical thinker and a servant. Because these are times when leaders are thinking like and learning from the likes of George Washington when he recognized that The People were declaring it was time for change.

Washington recognized the influence the pamphlet Common Sense by Thomas Paine was having on colonials, when he said, "I find Common Sense is working a powerful change in the minds of many men." And, John Adams wrote, “Without the pen of the author of Common Sense, the sword of Washington would have been raised in vain.”

Smart leaders are tuned to the needs and will of the People and find the ways to harness that energy into a direction for doing good and making big things happen. These leaders create the opportunities for people who want to participate in creating a better life for themselves and their progeny. It is clear that today, through social media People are writing, blogging and commenting on how they want to be a part of making changes in their local schools, communities and government. Smart leaders are hearing and answering these calls. 

These radical thinking leaders are accomplished with a deep passion to make a difference. Most will tell you they have been 'called' into that of a serving leader. Their eyes have been opened to see a need, which has become glued to their hearts so deeply that each beat resounds deeply into their soul with a compelling desire to experience individuals, families, businesses, agencies and communities being transformed. Any leader who chooses to be less than radical about serving those who work with them will soon find they have few, if any, followers. 

Who are these radically thinking servant leaders? 

Character: Their character is the cornerstone of who they are. Only those leaders who have had their character tested by fire, no longer smell like smoke and have developed the capacity to deal with uncertainty and manage change will thrive in today's rapidly changing environment.

Valued Relationships: You will know these leaders by how they speak about, respect and revere each relationship. They value their relationships not for what others can do for them, but for how blessed they feel for being associated and knowing people who inspire these radically thinking leaders to become better servant leaders.

Wisdom: Radically thinking leaders demonstrate their wisdom in the midst of chaos and change. Their agenda becomes to authentically serve the People. They actively listen with the intent to not seek compromise in the squall of diversity, but look for how that diversity empowers the process to reveal and release an entirely new possibility that is both inspiring and compelling for all involved.

Influence: Influence is not something one can just do. It is bestowed upon the leader in that a leader's quality of influence is recognized by the people who associate with the leader. Influence is the capstone of leadership, which clearly signals the vibrancy, stability and sustainability of the leader's cornerstone of character. Their character is revealed in the answers to these questions.

• Who are they in the quiet of their homes?
• What will their family and best friends truthfully say about them to others?
• What truths will be revealed when the leader is gone? 

Radically Big Thinking is relative to a leader's location, level of accomplishment, desire to make a difference and willingness to serve. A radically big thinking leader may be the one who leads others to stop the bullies in the schoolyard and workplace or those who lead profit or nonprofit organizations. No matter the place, time or numbers, the true test of a radically thinking leader will be recognized by the impact on the people involved. 

• Are people growing and developing? 
• Do they have a better life from being served? 
• Are they doing as has been done for them - are they now serving others?

This infographic is like a roadmap to encourage you to find where you are in the context of being a radically thinking servant leader and empower you to focus on the attitudes, behaviors and skills that form the character of an authentic servant leader.

Choose to be a radically thinking leader and only follow radically thinking leaders with good hearts and souls,

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

ZFactor blog explores and discusses a variety of techniques, tools and discoveries by successful people that will assist others to achieve greater personal and professional success. ZFactor is a proprietary coaching methodology based upon the premise that successful people think and act differently. The ZFactor methodology is proven to accelerate a person's ability to think and act differently.

What Do Your Choice Of Words Reveal About Your Leadership?

How much do you pay attention to the words you think, speak and write? Highly capable leaders will be aware of the words they use as they craft the various messages they have to deliver throughout their day.

How much do you pay attention to the little words? For example, I-words, we-words and you-words. Interestingly, these little words can reveal your psychological state and how you view your leadership status in a group of other leaders. 

The little words referred to as 'function words' by James W. Pennebaker, PhD of Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin,* may ultimately reveal your genuine thoughts, feelings, motivations and to what degree you connect with your audience. Dr. Pennebaker makes this observation from his research:

"High-status people use we-words and you-words at high rates and use I-words at low rates. In fact, this same pattern emerges when people are chatting with each other on the Internet."**

If you catch yourself in a room of leaders and notice you or someone is saying, "I did this... or I've done this... or this is who I am, etc.." this individual may be nervous about being the room of other leaders and trying to prove something.

The research has also proven this holds true through internet communications, as well. Look back over some of your communications by email or online conversations. If you consider someone to be of higher status than yourself, you might notice you have used more I-words. Likewise, if you are communicating with an employee you most likely have used more we-words and you-words. For fun, look at your LinkedIn invitations you receive and send. Which ones have more I-words?

This just touches on the extent of this interesting research into how language reveals more about us than we know. I tend to think of it as the body-language of language. The little words can reveal more about us than all the nouns, verbs, names, adverbs, etc... we put our primary focus.

This knowledge can help leaders to more quickly understand themselves and the people they work with. And, most importantly, be another tool in your coaching-mentoring development toolkit.

I highly encourage you to learn more from the website and book [links below].

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

ZFactor blog explores and discusses a variety of techniques, tools and discoveries by successful people that will assist others to achieve greater personal and professional success. ZFactor is a proprietary coaching methodology based upon the premise that successful people think and act differently. The ZFactor methodology is proven to accelerate a person's ability to think and act differently.

* The Secret Life of Pronouns [website]
** Pennebaker, James W. (2011-08-23). The Secret Life of Pronouns (p. 182). Bloomsbury Publishing Plc. [book link]

Purpose-Driven vs Results-Driven Leadership

I have just launched a new Google+ Community on the topic of Servant Leadership. Please check it out. All are invited. This blog provides some background for the Community as to the tag line for the community 'Purpose-Driven Leadership'.

The xy graph below, which is called a ZMap, is an infographic that presents how two primary concepts, when viewed with a 'Both/And' thinking perspective will reveal and release new possibilities and untapped potential. The two concepts in the ZMap below are 'Leadership Competencies' and 'Servant-Focus'. This shows how a Purpose-Driven leader should strive to maintain both Leadership Competencies and Servant-Focus thoughts, at the same time. The ZMap can act like a 'one page book' for helping a leader think though all the various situations and challenges they face in their leadership role.

I have found when a ZMap is presented to someone, it provides a framework for a more engaging and synergistic conversation. Two or more people can quickly get on the same page and begin to create new alternatives. Likewise, for an individual, they will find themselves thinking through different scenarios and situations much differently than if they considered the two concepts to be separated from the other. 

Thinking things are separated is called 'Either/Or' thinking. This is when the individual says a leader can either be a results-driven leader or a purpose-driven leader. They cannot be both at the same time. The 'Either/Or' thinker severely limits new possibilities for personal and professional growth. Who do you know who thinks like this? Often their comments may sound like "it is either black or white. There is no gray or in between." 'Either/Or' statements and thinking can kill any chance for an innovative process to create new possibilities.

Take a moment to notice your thoughts. Which thinking style are you using? Also, notice in your next conversation with someone. Are they making 'Either/Or' or 'Both/And' comments?

Purpose-Driven versus Results-Driven Leadership

'Both/And' thinking is an essential skill for a purpose-driven leader. Yet, a leader without clarity as to their purpose is like a ship without a rudder and the ship is full of people for which the leader is responsible. Because the leader has no clear direction or purpose, they are prone to 'Either/Or' thinking. This is obviously not in the best interests of the people on the ship. The leader is likely to toss the person, who knows how to build a rudder, off the ship due to some emotional whim by the leader. 

A results-driven leader in most organizations can get by without a clear purpose based upon their performance, as long as things are going well. The moment things start to go wrong, which at some point something goes wrong, a leader without a purpose is only operating with half the ZMap, below. They have only their leadership skills and capabilities and they have limited capacity for dealing with change and uncertainty.

A leader without a clear purpose depends upon performance. You could say they are 'results-driven' instead of 'purpose-driven'. Without a purpose, this leader sits on a two-legged stool. It requires much more work by the leader to keep everything in balance. Thus, when something gets too heavy on one side, the leader and all topple over. You know this type of leader. As long as things are working well, it appears as if the leader can do it all. They amaze everyone with their skills of balancing on the two-legged stool and juggling a dozen balls. When this leader starts to topple, the ship sinks fast.

The purpose-driven leader can also be results-driven because they operate with the whole ZMap. They sit upon a four-legged chair. They have much more stability, flexibility and capacity to deal with all the uncertainty when things go wrong. They have the time to assess the situation and adapt by making appropriate changes in people and resources to deal with the challenges. The purpose-driven leader has both capabilities and the capacity. 

Over the past three years, during the economic crisis, we have seen many of each type of leader. I'll assert the leaders left standing had clarity about their purpose or they figured it out very quickly. And, the results-driven leaders are in recovery and hopefully they are figuring out how to become a purpose-driven leader.

Are You a Results-Driven or Purpose-Driven Leader?

Look at the ZMap and think about which quadrant best describes who you are and where you are in your leadership role. Think of this ZMap like a roadmap and this quick self-assessment helps you plot where you are. When you know where you are on a roadmap, it becomes much easier to start planning your journey to get to where you want to be.

You can use a ranking from 1 to 6, where '1' is you have just started developing and '6' is you are highly experienced and have mastered the quadrant. Rank yourself for each quadrant.

1. Practices and Disciplines: How consistent is your attitude,emotions and behaviors? Do these establish solid and highly productive habits for you?
2. People and Principles: How would you rank your ability to maintain a focus on the needs of others? Include in this rank your clarity for your personal core values and how consistent you model your values and principles in all your relationships. How often do your principles act as a guide or compass for your leadership decisions?
3. Process and Performance: Rank the consistency of the organization's processes and the sustainability of performance. Are processes clearly identified and defined such that they produce consistent, predictable results?
4. Purpose-Driven Leader: Rank the level of positive impact and influence you have on the growth and development of others and making a difference. Are people, the community and world better off because of your leadership? How well defined is your purpose or calling? How consistent do you model and express your purpose in your daily life and leadership practices?

Score:

• 4-8      Practices and Disciplines
• 9-12    People and Principles
• 13-20  Process and Performance
• 21-24  Purpose-Driven Leader

It makes no difference which quadrant you find yourself. Remember, it is like a roadmap. Knowing where you are makes it easy to set the course for the next part of your journey. The important thing is to be honest with yourself and be determined to make the changes to make yourself a better Purpose-Driven leader.

More information will be coming in future blogs and any feedback or comments are always welcomed.

The Purpose-Driven Leader ZMap:

This is just one of the ZMaps we have developed. We have hundreds of these, all tailored to specific roles, situations, companies, markets and industries. There are currently three books focused on professionals in Product Sales, Financial Advisory and Insurance sales. Other books are in development that use a similar ZMap process and methodology. You can click here to learn more about the books.

This blog is part of an upcoming book The Servant Leader Framework, which will be available March/April 2013.

Thank you for taking some of your valuable time to read and consider this blog.

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

Entrepreneurial Leaders Do What Matters

"Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. In all the places you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as ever you can." ~ John Wesley

These are times of rapid change, uncertainty and opportunity that call forth leaders with a deep desire to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy in business, community, church and government. People want to be part of something that matters. Yet, the challenges of getting others willing to confront the issues at hand and execute workable solutions require leaders who have the adaptive capacity to get others on the same page and moving in the same direction, at the same time. Leaders must have a deep understanding of what it takes to be highly effective and influential leaders. 

Leadership is no longer about declaring the vision or direction and then looking to see who is following and then focus on those who follow. This is a time for leaders to embrace the heart of a servant and spirit of the warrior. Authentic servant leaders observe all that exists around them and apply what they learn to develop a deep understanding of the art and science of leadership. Each must put forth the required time and effort to make themselves authentic servant leaders with a clear focus on others and set the course for things to come. Great leaders throughout history maintain a sense of providence as to who they are, where they are and what they are called to do. The opportunity, like no other time in history, is the possibility to create a world great leaders throughout history have desired to make reality.

Those who choose to pursue this leadership opportunity quickly realize the process to become an authentic servant leader involves reconciling immense personal and professional challenges. Change becomes a way of life. Leadership is a self-development process that requires daily attention as society requires leaders to have a servant-focus, be of solid character and maintain high standards in leadership practices and principles. Leaders are expected to continually learn and with a trusted mentor become a highly capable leader who knows themselves, cares about people and has a deep understanding of the business or organization they steward. 

For those leaders who answer this call into servant leadership, the Servant Leader Framework serves as a highly effective methodology for thinking and processing through all the situations, possibilities, challenges, changes and complexities of leadership.

This xy graph or ZMap becomes a ‘one page book’ for those who desire to know and understand who they are as an entrepreneur and servant leader. This simple xy graph provides clarity and focus on what to do to get to where you want to be. The challenge for entrepreneurs is reconciling their desires for success with doing good to make a difference. For those entrepreneurs who can stay focused on both success and doing good at the same time will know what it means to go from success to significance. It is possible to have it all. Just look at all the entrepreneurial leaders who have proven this is true. This is one of the ZMaps in my upcoming book The Servant Leader Framework.

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

Legacy.com - Just Dying to Be Mentioned

I did a Google search for "legacy" - check it out. I click on Legacy.com because I'm curious and enjoy seeing how people have put really good domain names to use. Bottom line - I'm not interested in being mentioned on Legacy.com for quite a while.

I doubt I would make the landing page for Legacy.com even if I were eligible to be considered worthy for Legacy.com. Yet, it begs the question, "So what will people remember me for?" 

Good question and the answer to that question requires comments from those who "really" know me. In the meantime, here's a couple of thoughts about the possibilities of legacy.

I've met, know and known many amazing people throughout my life and I love listening to their stories of success and how their failures and challenges became the seeds of that success. I cherish their words of wisdom whether they know I do or not. Whenever I have the opportunity to make a difference with someone else and sense that sharing my experiences of these people - I believe I am enhancing and expanding their legacy. See the blogs about Veterans Day (John), Zig Ziglar and Jimmy V.

Who knows, maybe the stories I share about others will have an impact on the lives of the living. And, maybe one day, when I become eligible for Legacy.com, I'll find myself in Heaven facing a long line of people who were blessed by the stories I shared about the legacy of others, which otherwise they may have never known.

Maybe, at the end of it all, it's really just taking the time to listen to another person and offering a few words of hope, encouragement and love. I guess I've been gifted with knowing many amazing people and I figure it's my job to listen, encourage, love and take the time to share the legacies of others. Thank You, God. I love my job.

Share the legacy of someone you know. It may make a difference!

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

What You Think Determines Your Legacy. Where Are You?

You are here. Welcome. Not to be flippant with you, but you are here, right now. Thank you for being here and taking some of your valuable time. I promise to create some value for you.

What are you thinking and saying to yourself, right now? What will you be thinking, saying and doing when you finish reading this? Will you stop reading here and go on about your day or will you take another few moments that will make a difference for you and your legacy?

60,000 Thoughts a Day

You have 60,000 thoughts a day. What percentage are positive and what percentage negative? How many of those thoughts are focused on where you are and who you are being now? 

How will you spend your day? What will be your dominant thoughts and actions throughout the day? At any moment, you can take a breath and check in on your thoughts and what you are saying to others. And, you can choose to make appropriate changes that work for you and others around you.

You are what you think. What you think influences what you do and what you do determines where you are. On a scale of 1 to 10 how does where you are now represent where you want to be and ultimately your legacy? 10 being you are definitely in your sweet spot.

Thinking is a Skill - Needs to be Developed

This is not rocket science, nor is it some new age mumbo jumbo. Thinking is a skill to be learned and developed. How would you rate your ability to think about what you want to think about? How often does someone's statement or some comment on TV make you react with a statement that just flies out of your mouth like someone pushed the Play button on a video? 

3 - 3 - 3

Before you speak think 333.

1. Count to three (3).
2. Have you said what you are going to say three (3) times or more?
3. Will what you say make a difference three (3) minutes from now, three weeks, three months, three hundred years...?

Take the next few moments and notice how many of your thoughts are influenced by some external stimulus. If the majority of your thoughts and what you say are stimulated by external sources, you have not developed your most valuable asset - your thinking skills.

Think of a time when you intentionally shifted your thinking from negative to positive. Learning to shift your thinking from inside is not only a good skill to develop, it is the most essential skill necessary for achieving your goals and ultimately leaving a legacy that makes a difference.

Thought + Action = Result

If you want to know your past thoughts and actions, simply assess where you are now, your results. If you want to change your future results, change the way you think and the actions you take. What thoughts and actions will give you the results you want? 

It really is this simple and it takes real intention and work to make it happen.

What you think will determine your legacy.

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

Authentic Legacy - Zig Ziglar

A few of my favorite +Zig Ziglar quotes in celebration of his life, legend and legacy.

• "Your attitude, not your aptitude will determine your altitude."
• "Every choice you make has an end result."
• "If you treat your wife like a thoroughbred, you'll never end up with a nag."
• "If God would have wanted us to live in a permissive society He would have given us Ten Suggestions and not Ten Commandments."
• "It's not what you've got, it's what you use that makes a difference."

Prayers and blessings to the Ziglar family and to all Zig Fans. I am a better man, husband, father, businessman, salesman and leader because of Zig Ziglar and a few other book mentors I discovered early in life and at the beginning of my business career. Zig has joined Og Mandino, Dale Carnegie, W. Clement Stone, Napoleon Hill and Earl Nightengale for a major God Special Universe Tour.

Thank you, Mr. Ziglar (Zig) for the legacy you have created that will make a difference for generations to come. Thank you for showing us all the way.

"...it's what you use that makes a difference."

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

Legacy "To Infinity and Beyond!"

You gotta love the attitude of Buzz Lightyear, an animated robot, obviously without any means of propulsion, yet believes he can fly "to infinity and beyond." This is one of my favorite quotes of which I have many favorite quotes. Sticking with the cartoon theme, I especially like the final cartoon strip of 'Calvin and Hobbes' when Calvin says, "It's a magical world, Hobbes ol' buddy. Let's go exploring!" 

These type of quotes inspire people who seek to live life large and leave a meaningful legacy. I believe these quotes clearly demonstrate how an authentic servant-leader remains focused on the here-and-now with an internal drive to make a difference. Their day-to-day actions to meet people where they are, believe in the magic and mystery of life and love; and serve them in all the ways they can, as long as they can - yet, the infinity of their impact on the lives and situations of others happens long after their deaths. Now that is a meaningful legacy.

My wife, Cindy, and I took a weekend trip with her parents to the River Walk in San Antonio, Texas. It was the perfect Chamber of Commerce weather for strolling along the River Walk, people watching, a little shopping and fine dining. 

As we strolled along we came upon the local Salvation Army band performing at the Arneson Theater along with a men's choir from Houston. This is a unique theater where the audience sits in an amphitheater on one side of the river with the stage on the other side. The band and choir were performing the classic Christian gospel songs and the crowd was toe tapping, hand clapping and children dancing. 

As I scanned the crowd, the love for people and the joy of service exuded from each member of the Salvation Army, as they expressed their love of Christ through their actions, as opposed to words.  As I observed each uniformed member, I envisioned I was watching the Founders of the Salvation Army in action. The lives of William and Catherine Booth are the epitome of servant-leaders captured by an inspiring moment and putting their faith to work to serve others.

Almost 150 years from the founding of the Salvation Army, it is clear how the simple, God inspired lives of the Booths have achieved "to infinity and beyond." I am struck by the magnitude of how one couple's faith-in-action has changed lives and communities, time and again through the lives of millions. Now, that is what makes this planet a truly magical world. People choosing to love and serve others. This is just another experience that confirms my perspective that I've witnessed infinity once again - and this time on the River Walk. Makes me pause and be really curious about what is beyond.

Live the magic of life,

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

How Do You Become a Thought-Leader?

Below is the response I gave to a the question "How do you become a thought-leader?" on the IBM Mid-Size Business Discussion Board. Check out some of the other answers after reading my response - thanks!

I did the Wordle because I figured all the key words would make a cool Wordle. What do you think? click here to go to my wordle. Feel welcome to copy my response and make your own Wordle.

My response to the question:   

Thought-leaders have the heart of a disruptive innovator with the abilities to listen, observe and process large amounts of information. They leverage a personal thinking strategy to organize and focus their thoughts into a cohesive communication that creates value for others.

They have deep understanding of the subject matter, which has been gained by direct, personal experience with an intense curiosity to know what they don't know. They are driven by the opportunity to reveal new possibilities to help others think differently about who they are and what they do. They have the hope that untapped potential gets revealed and released to make a difference in ways far beyond even the thought-leader's imaginings.

The most authentic thought-leaders are those who don't even know of the lives and situations transformed because the thought-leader is just doing what they love to do - think and act differently. --end of my response...

ZFactor Group is committed to helping thought-leaders, experts and influencers to publish their works in a manner that creates significant value for others and helps our authors build their legacy. Download our ZFactor Author Process.

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

How Will Your Legacy Make a Difference?

Who or what life experience made a significant difference for you? Maybe it is someone you know, a parent, teacher, minister, friend, mentor or someone you have read about or it could be a crucible life event. 

• What has been your process to deeply examine how this person or event has impacted your life? 
• How does this experience compel you to think about, seek out and act upon what you sense being called to do?
• With whom do you associate and what are your activities?
• Where are you serving others and what joy does this bring to your life?

These are just a few of the questions to answer on this journey toward the discovery and bringing forth your legacy. In a recent discussion with a young friend on this topic, they declared how they know their destiny, but that could be fifty or more years away. I encouraged them to begin living that legacy today. By doing so, I suspect their legacy will become much more than they ever imagined and impact many thousands more than ever hoped.

How will your legacy make a difference? What are the possibilities? Dreaming required.

Blessings to you for your journey and the difference it will make for those you may never know,

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

What Will Be Your Legacy?

This past weekend, much time was spent hanging out around a campfire with good buddies. There was engaging conversation and all the while I glanced into the campfire's glowing embers. I kept thinking about legacy. I had scanned this article, How to Build Your Legacy, before the weekend's camp out.

Some of us have camped and traveled together over the past thirty years. The organizers of this annual camp out, Debbie and Dr. Chip, gather an interesting group of folks, including an emergency department physician, critical care nurse for end-of-life organ donors, a rocket scientist, nuclear engineer, ob gyn physician, employee advocate and a couple of entrepreneurs. All Glowing Embers with amazing life stories.

Check out the article on legacy to have some background for a few of my future posts. I'll be exploring the process, opportunities and possibilities for making a difference beyond our lifetime. Here's some of the working blog titles:

• Patience - Predictability - and Pickles
• How Will Your Legacy Make a Difference?
• Put Some Thought into It - Your Legacy Can Last Forever

Keep on Glowing,

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

Glowing Ember Sets Off a Firestorm

You gotta love it. An innocent posting of a photograph goes viral in moments. Check out this photo taken during Sandy (the storm) and the article. Brian Morrissey has some thought-provoking ponders about the picture going viral. His hit counter must have been whirling - something serious bloggers, tweeters, posters dream for.

No matter how we refer to these sort of happenings, whether a fad, 15 minutes of fame or go-viral - I recognize the same key ingredients in all of these situations. My favorite definition of "luck" is "where preparation and opportunity meet."

Ansel Adams sums up the most important ingredient. "Sometimes I do get to places just when God's ready to have somebody click the shutter." ~ Ansel Adams

The other key ingredients:

• you have to keep doing it and be willing to change
• you have to keep learning and refining all along the way
• and, when it hits (goes viral) be ready to capitalize on it.

Thank you for my loyal and growing base of Glowing Embers. I will continue to find great examples of Glowing Embers happening. It's a big world and there is much to make happen and it's time for Glowing Embers to recognize one another, come together and make stuff happen. 

As Brian comments about how the line has blurred between social media and traditional news media, it makes me remember the "Rodney King" video. That was an awakening. Imagine what will be possible in a few short years for all us bloggers, tweeters and posters - and the difference being made in people's lives whom you nor I will ever know.

The times, they are a'changin ~ Bob Dylan

Best of LUCK to you "a-changin" Glowing Embers,

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing

Rethink Motivation (Blanchard) - Change for the better...

Are you a Glowing Ember fading or growing ever brighter? Successful people think and act differently. This is the basic premise in all ZFactor books. 

"If we don't change, we will end up with the same behaviors and conversations we've been having for decades. At some point we have to ask, 'If we keep doing things the way we've been doing them for the past 40 years, why would we expect anything to get better?'  ~ Dr. David Facer

Read the complete article on the Blanchard Insight website.

~ Alan Goldsberry, Author and CEO of ZFactor Group Publishing