Six Leadership Lessons for Everyone
By Gary Gzik

After a dynamic week of training and playing in the Bahamas with a client group, I spent some time reflecting on the leadership lessons that came from the experience. And while you may not have the opportunity to head South this spring, you can implement any and all of these in your own business.

Lesson 1: Take time to quiet the mind and body

Our fast-paced world often means we mistake busyness with good business. This is not so. Professional (and personal) growth requires you to take time to think strategically without distractions. This way you stay on track.

Lesson 2: Team building occurs outside the classroom

Never underestimate the impact of a team building activity outside the classroom and away from the workplace. The relationships (or REALationships) that team members build during this time will enhance communication and trust.

Lesson 3: Look to nature when leading others

We were told that dolphins have to want perform and they must know what is expected of them. How true with people as well. Your employees and co-workers have to want to give you their best and they need sufficient feedback in order to perform to their full capacity.

Lesson 4: You are in control of your own experience

We all know the phrase "what you see is what you get," well, it's right. If you expect a bad time, you will have one. But, the opposite is true as well. When you walk into work each day, what attitude colours your experience?

Lesson 5: Don't Forget to be Thankful

On our trip, a local resort employee told me it was tourists who often reminded him how fortunate he was to work and live on a beautiful island. Sometimes we forget to lift our heads at work and remember all we have to be thankful for. Take time to enjoy the fruits of your labour.

Lesson 6: Courage and change reveal new possibilities

Whether it's overcoming a fear of deep water to swim with the dolphins or having the courage to give a presentation to a large group, when we stretch our comfort zones we often receive fuller, better experiences. Pick one thing that you've always wanted to do and set a plan of action to achieve it.

What are you waiting for? Time waits for no one, so begin your journey today.

Seizing the Day discusses changes at BizXcel and how we are always transforming and advancing in order to serve our clients better.

Gary Gzik is the CEO of BizXcel and has been a consultant for businesses for over 20 years. He has worked with hundreds of organizations and more than 10 000 individuals in areas of leadership development, effective communication skills, strategic planning, presentation skills, team building, customer service and personal development.