As we approach the end of the year, it's a time for reflection, gratitude, and for many of us, a bit of giving back. In the realm of leadership, the impact of our actions extends far beyond the walls of the workplace. Today, let's explore the art of giving back and how three influential individuals, who have personally inspired me, have made a lasting positive impact through their charitable endeavors.
Brené Brown: Fostering Connection and Empowerment
Brené Brown, a research professor and bestselling author, is renowned for her work on vulnerability, shame, and courage. Beyond her impactful teachings, she actively engages in initiatives that promote connection and empowerment within communities. As a Dare to Lead facilitator, I've witnessed firsthand her commitment to being a leader for positive change.
Her dedication to giving back is evident in her support for organizations focused on mental health, equality, and education. Brown exemplifies that leadership involves not only leading from the front but also lifting others up along the way.
Dr. John Townsend: Nurturing Communities Through Empathy and Influence
Dr. John Townsend, a renowned psychologist, leadership expert, and founder of the Townsend Leadership Group and the Townsend Institute at Concordia University, has authored numerous bestselling Christian self-help books, including People Fuel and Boundaries. Through my interactions with him in the TLP Group and as an adjunct professor at the Townsend Institute, I've come to appreciate his power of empathy and community engagement.
One aspect I admire about Dr. Townsend is his instrumental role in establishing support networks for individuals. He models empathy and giving back through his teachings. Dr. Townsend's commitment to developing individuals creates opportunities for essential conversations about mental health in both the workplace and the boardroom.
Dolly Parton: Country Royalty with a Heart of Gold
Dolly Parton, the legendary country singer-songwriter, actress, and philanthropist, is celebrated not only for her musical prowess but also for her extraordinary generosity. Parton's commitment to giving back is most evident in her creation of the Imagination Library, providing free books to children and fostering a love for reading and learning.
Parton's philanthropy extends beyond education to include creating jobs in her hometown, disaster relief efforts, and support for medical research. Her global influence through motivational quotes and a positive demeanor showcases a leadership style rooted in compassion and a genuine desire to make the world a better place.
My Give-Back Choice This Season
While I now work as an executive coach, leadership trainer, and Dare to Lead™️ facilitator from my home office in San Antonio, Texas, many people do not realize that for years I served as vice president for my family’s manufacturing company based in Tulsa, Oklahoma. I still have family in Oklahoma and am proud that my daughter Mallory now works at the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma, addressing hunger in the fifth hungriest state in the nation. The majority of people served by the Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma are chronically hungry children, seniors living on limited incomes, and hardworking families struggling to make ends meet. This food bank is in need of food, funds, time, and advocacy. This month I am supporting the food bank financially since all donations are being matched dollar for dollar this month.
Learn more here: https://www.regionalfoodbank.org/.
Intentional Leadership
What unites leaders in the realm of giving back is intentional leadership. It's not just about making a financial contribution; it's about aligning values with actions and using one's influence to effect positive change. Whether fostering empathy, driving innovation for social causes, making a financial donation, hosting a food drive, or empowering others through shared vulnerability, these leaders exemplify the essence of leadership that extends beyond the boardroom.
As we navigate the holiday season and look ahead to a new year, let’s draw inspiration from these role models. Consider how your unique skills, resources, and influence can be harnessed to make a meaningful impact in your community and beyond. The art of giving back is a tapestry woven with the threads of empathy, innovation, and intentional leadership, creating a legacy that goes beyond the bottom line.
For me, a guiding principle is to leave things better than I found them. Whether through fostering empathy, driving innovation for social causes, making a financial donation, hosting a food drive, or empowering others through shared vulnerability, these leaders exemplify the essence of leadership that extends beyond the boardroom.
Remember, true leadership isn't just about the mark you make within the confines of the workplace; it's about the lasting imprint you leave on the world. - KM
