People today are desperate for leaders, someone they can trust . . . . If you want to become someone who can positively influence other people,
- model consistency of character
- employ honest communication
- value transparency
- exemplify humility
- demonstrate your support of others
- [and] fulfill your promises.
~John Maxwell in Becoming a Person of Influence: How to Positively Impact the Lives of Others
Dependability is important to every team's success. Everyone on the team knows upon whom they can and can't depend. Allow me to give you what I consider to be the essence of dependability:
- pure motives
- responsibility
- sound thinking
- [and] consistent contribution.
If you can't depend on teammates all the time, then you can't really depend on them any of the time. Consistency takes a depth of character that enables people to follow through no matter how tired, distracted, or overwhelmed they are.
~John Maxwell in The 17 Essential Qualities of a Team Player: Becoming the Kind of Person Every Team Wants
Both you as a homeschool group leader and your team of volunteers in your homeschool group need great character to get every job done, every time. Emphasize character in your leader meetings; reward your dependable leaders and volunteers with lots of recognition; promote limits and consistency in group activities. Your group will grow with your encouraging expectations.
We have enjoyed these last few weeks of studying some of John Maxwell's works. His writings are full of wisdom and understanding. We highly recommend reading as many of his writings as you can. You will be a better person and a better leader because of his trustworthy influence.
Note: Share them, too. Maxwell's books would be a great addition for a homeschool group library or even as a base curriculum for a teen citizenship co-op class or a mom's book club. You can start your collection here.
May you be blessed with dependable volunteers this coming school year!
Denise & Kristen
