The first way a leader might have an interruption is with an action plan. Somehow carefully planned goals get derailed. These could be unexpected, overlooked, or unanticipated challenges. A good leader will acknowledge the oversight, regroup, and keep moving forward.

Also, leaders might encounter a distraction with their thoughts. Daydreaming or brainstorming might the first set of distractions. Another facet might be stress-induced or rest-mandated trains of thought. At this point, leaders might consider other opportunities through the interruptions that emerge. No harm, no foul as long as the leader stays focused.

Finally, leaders might be prone to accept the agenda of others. Whenever there are multiple angles and dynamics at play with a leader’s action plan there is always the possibility of distraction. We can see this when a coach has an agenda and then a team player has another goal in mind. The coach’s action plan might be influenced in various ways.

Regardless of the interruptions that emerge, it is up to each leader to stay the course.

Dawn McCoy
Author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success

Her tenacity to persevere was an inspiration for so many people. She certainly inspired me. Since the beginning of her recovery process, she has been on a quest to bounce back. In the midst of it all, she is still gave back to others and her constituents.

Despite her ailments, she found the courage to learn how to speak and walk again. With physical and speech therapy she has made great strides and still has more progress ahead. But, it was not just triumph over debilitating ailments. On the contrary, it was her inner courage to keep on going despite the odds that makes us marvel.

In the midst of her own personal struggle, she still has found time and energy to honor other victims and survivors from that fateful January day. She put aside her own challenges and fears. Her measured words acknowledge those who courageously stepped up that day to help others. Her passionate thoughts reflect about those who did not survive.

Above all, her recovery and graceful resignation brought momentary unity to the dysfunction that thwarts Washington lawmakers. She was willingly celebrated by her congressional colleagues, regardless of partisanship. Her triumph has brought together collective support acknowledging her wisdom and fortitude.

Would it not be a tremendous feat if we had more leaders who worry less about their vulnerability and more about showing inner courage? It is high time for us all to take notes from Giffords’ dynamic inspiration to overcome and give back at the same time.

Dawn McCoy
author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success

But, it was not just a moment for the photo albums but more a chance for me to reflect. In those split seconds, I considered about all the possibilities that might be and all the history that transpired. Let me share what I mean.

Leaders assuming a new position often cherish the opportunity to impart wisdom to another. They take it seriously that they have reached the status of regarded elder, highly respected teacher, and sought-after-advisor. It is like no other opportunity when a seasoned leader has the chance to open the encyclopedia of knowledge and guide a newbie.

Likewise, an up-and-coming star looks to the mature for guidance and insight. Protégés appreciate the mentoring and teaching that comes without asking. In the same way, they ask for details about how to learn the ropes, how to avoid pitfalls, and how to manage the seemingly impossible. How little they know but how eager they are to learn!

When all the stars align and our new and future leaders meet then there is an unwritten imperative. Take seriously every opportunity to share wisdom. It just might be a once in a lifetime chance.

Dawn McCoy, author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success

Here are some ways to celebrate the vision of Dr. King.

1. Train and sharpen leadership skills.
2. Bring urgency, willingness, and passion back to civic engagement.
3. Build alliances and create teams committed to human and civil rights.
4. Transform social and economic challenges into opportunities for hope.
5. Tackle tough social issues head on.

Dr. King had the dream. Now it is our turn to act on this Martin Luther King Day 2012. No, we cannot wait!

Dawn McCoy, author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success

Too often leaders want to make excuses for dismissing negative, malicious, or destructive people from their lives. When it comes down to it, being a good example and inspiring others to follow the leader begins with serving as a role model. Leaders cannot be the best among us if they are keeping company with negative people.

For example, just look at reckless business leaders or politicians who plead ignorant after taking heat about a staff member’s lack of effective oversight. And what about those clergy members or movie stars who have to back-peddle because they kept bad company?

The old adage that our parents taught us “you are the company you keep is so true.” Leaders have an obligation to take the words to heart and make sure to lead cautiously and select appropriate collaborations and comrades.

Taking time to prune negative or pessimistic people is just prudent to avoid repetitive and unnecessary egregious behavior.

Dawn McCoy
author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success