Colin Warren: the blog

After finishing The West Wing last week, I’ve also finished something else…

Tonight I finished a three and a half year commitment and service in a volunteer capacity. I’m glad I’ve been able to make a contribution and make a small difference to the community I’m part of. Kind words were said (and appreciated) and I hope that work can continue in the vein that it has been commenced.

It wasn’t all smooth sailing, but then that can be expected in a community consisting of individuals. I’ve learnt a lot about leadership, communication and common vision & goals. So, while some frustrating times, it’s generally been fulfilling work and there is some sadness in walking away. but, it’s got to be done, others will fill the breach and the work will go on. I’m looking forward to a more hands-off role mentoring other to step up. As Benjamin Zander suggests – “What contribution can you make?“

Thank you for the opportunity to make mine…

We now have a new government and Prime Minister (so, let’s all have a holiday – like; a change is as a good as a …). It all seems to going well with some jostling as positions re-stated and a new cabinet is presented. The oppo now have their team (oh dear) and it’ll be business as usual before too long. Hopefully it won’t be more of the same and that the ‘new leadership’ is able to represent the people and work to ensure we continue living in a great country. Keeping promises and doing good for all can be a difficult task and I wish them all the best. The proof won’t just be in the pudding, but also in the eating.

I was wondering how much politicians actually think about serving the people. Robert Greenleaf wrote about servant leadership and I appreciate this idea in contrast to leader as all powerful. Dee Hock also wrote about leadership and suggests spending most of the time managing yourself first. I also recall Benjamin Zander & Rosamund Stone Zanders’ book The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life where they suggest asking yourself the question (in all situations); What contribution can I make? It’s a great outlook on life supporting the development of creativity, enabling us feel that we can make a difference.