Have you every been described as resolved or resolute? It is a term that we just don’t hear often anymore. To be resolved is to firmly determined to do something. Another definition is admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering. When I read those definitions, it stirs something in me as a leader and reminds me that this is a quality we all as leaders must possess, develop and inspire in others.
My favorite quote on resolve is from Edward Gibbon, “A heart to resolve, a head to contrive, and a hand to execute.”. It speaks to the source of where our resolve as a leader has to come from. Your personal will, firm determination and unwavering spirit comes from you heart. In my years of leading, I have come to believe that resolve is something that is deeply etched in the heart of each and every one of us. The problem is that life chips away at it. With each and every set back we experience, with the constant barrage of negativity in our world and with our own head trash speaking to our heart, our resolve is weakened. Maybe you feel that way today.
Here a a few things that I have found help me to restore my resolve, and I hope that they may help you as a leader also.
Shed the Slime
Negativity is like being covered with a thick coat of slime that slows you down and suffocates you. If your slimed, your resolve will be diminished. It may be a time to shed the slime. Take time to focus on what you are allowing to influence your life. Look at what your reading, who you are surrounding yourself with, what your watching, what your listening to, and where you are letting your mind wander to…then change it. Read something that is inspiring, hang with people who will lift you up and encourage you, turn off the television, play some music that stirs your heart, and control the thoughts that you let take your mind captive.
Find Purpose
It is so easy to loose focus of the bigger reason of why you do what you do. As a leader, we must always remember our purpose. You are making an impact on people’s lives. Whatever you do has meaning. If you still find yourself not finding motivation in your current purpose, take up a cause. The world needs people who are passionate about making a difference. You might also consider just taking a day off and investing it in volunteering for a charity that you align with.
Make a Choice
At the end of the day, resolve is a choice that each of us have. We can either demonstrate dogged determination and an unwavering dedication to making a difference as a leader or not. It really is a personal choice at the root of it. Be encouraged today and choose to be resolved in all that you do as a leader. Carpe Diem!
John C. Bain 