Page 115 - How Great Leaders Build Abundant Organizations That Win

THE WHY OF WORK

downturns, tough relationships, transitions, etc. Now think
of yourself looking back on this challenge from the perspec-
tive of many years from now. As you look back, what would
you want to feel good about in how you handled the current
difficulty? What values are most important to you to main-
tain and live from? What do you care most about in terms
of your personal integrity in this situation? These are the
values that saturate the high-abundance versions of the four
quadrants—values like integrity, gratitude, humility, kind-
ness, discipline, and compassion.
Now think about the most pressing challenges you face
as a leader at work. How can you apply your personal val-
ues to these leadership challenges, helping others apply their
personal values to meeting these challenges? When people
apply their personal values to pressing business challenges,
both individuals and organizations are more apt to succeed.

Expand into Other Quadrants

Even though we concentrate our efforts in one quadrant
or another to start, great leaders must have at least moder-
ate proficiency in all four quadrants to motivate all types of
employees and respond to all types of challenges. A good
place to expand is into the quadrant on the opposite corner
from the one you prefer. For example, if you work primarily
in the achievement quadrant, consider bringing into your life
a balancing experience with investing more in connection,
spending time with people regardless of their usefulness. Or
if you love empowerment, consider adding a component of
insight to give yourself time for rest, self-reflection, and fresh
ideas.

96