Page 68 - Leadership Lessons of the White House Fellows

LEADERS KNOW THERE’S MORE TO LIFE THAN WORK

private conversation, we were discussing how we rank different aspects of
life—community, relationships, etcetera. He told me he always put God
first, even above his wife, whom he loves very much. I found that both
shocking and intriguing, because I knew how much he loved her. We also
discussed how the Bible has been understood as a series of leadership alle-
gories and that his understanding of the Bible in this context, and his love
of God, helps guide his way to better relationships with others, including
his wife, coworkers, and subordinates.”
Ghez’s classmate invited her to attend services with his family, and
finally, during the last week of the Fellowship, she did. Because of that
experience and the support of other White House Fellows classmates, Ghez
began to believe in God. She now attends services regularly. “I share this
personal anecdote because I know, like my fellow Fellow knew, that my
faith is helping me become a better person, friend, and leader,” Ghez said.
“When all is said and done, the most significant thing I got out of the
White House Fellowship Program is faith. I will always be grateful for that,
and I know my life is better and more balanced as a result of it.”
Always remember that great leaders have deep reserves of physical,
spiritual, and emotional energy and that that energy usually is fueled by a
strong and supportive relationship with the people they love, regular exer-
cise, a healthy lifestyle, and setting aside time for reflection. For instance,
I try to exercise at least three times a week and stay fit by following a
healthy lifestyle. In terms of balance, I work very hard to devote quality
time to the three most important aspects of my life. First come the people
I love—my family and all my close friends. Second are all the activities
that make me come alive as a man and that I’m deeply passionate about—
my professional life, my community involvement, and my many hobbies.
And finally, above all else is my spiritual life—my faith and belief in God.
I’m happiest and most effective when I achieve the right balance among
these three critical components.
Of course everyone has his or her own priorities and beliefs, and you
must determine yours. When you know what is truly most important for
you, develop a plan to devote the quality time each deserves. The balance
you achieve will help create the inner strength necessary to make you a
much more effective leader.

53