Leaders who step forward and challenges the status quo with different approaches make changes in our world by changing one person at a time. Their challenges force people to rethink their attitudes, behavior, and ultimately outcomes.
Leaders that have challenged the status quo and reshaped our world:
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., challenged people by his vision/dream of a better world. In his August 28, 1963, “I Have a Dream” speech touched nations. Dr. King described a future of true equality, justice, freedom, and commitment.
Bill Gates, CEO of Microsoft, challenged his organization to achieve the company’s mission statement, “A computer on every desk and in every home.”
President John F. Kennedy challenged people of our nation by stating, “Ask not what your country can do for you but, rather, ask what you can do for your country.” He also challenged the nation to land a man on the moon and returned him safely to earth by the end of the decade.
Carol Barty, CEO of Autodesk, refocused the company from a one-product design-automation-software company to one that has a core competency of software design applicable to many markets. She challenged her organization to think of new and different applications for its software.
Betsy Barnard, president and CEO of Pacific Bell Communications, constantly challenged herself to leave her “comfort zone.” She defined living outside of her comfort zone as taking on bigger and greater opportunities. It also meant the nonstop development of knowledge and skills and a willingness to step “outside the lines.”
Word of the week – Status Quo –The condition or state of affairs. The same; without change.
Ask yourself – what have you done or what will you do to challenge yourself and others to change and improve?
Speaking With a Purpose: “I help you bridge the gap between … Where you are versus where you want to be.” My ultimate goal – help you become a better you!
