Purposeful thoughts, words and actions

I often look at events through the lense of leadership and soul. As I reflect back on the inauguration - wow - I am grateful for the words and actions that reflect respect, wisdom, hope, and commitment to the greater good. Leadership isn’t only about doing. It is about being, inspiring, challenging, honoring, envisioning, and aligning. This is why a leader’s thoughts, words and actions are important. When the three are aligned, there is authenticity and exponential ripple effects. When they are out of alignment, there is discord and chaos. As we reflect on this time filled with monumental challenges, we are offered the opportunity to look inside our soul and choose what is next for ourselves and beyond. In that spirit, I share moments of yesterday’s music and speeches that invite the greater good within each of us to be more purposeful in our thoughts, words and actions.

We are creatures whose veins pulse with hope, and faith, and love.

We have much to do … Much to repair. Much to restore. Much to heal … and much to gain.

To overcome these challenges require more than words … Our “better angels” have always prevailed.

We’ve braved the belly of the beast. We’ve learned that quiet isn’t always peace. And the norms and notions of what is isn’t always just-ice. And yet the dawn is ours. … And yes we are far from polished far from pristine. But that doesn’t mean we are striving to form a union that is perfect. We are striving to forge a union with purpose … We lay down our arms so we can reach out our arms to one another.

We’ll take what we can carry and we’ll leave the rest … Meet me in the land of hope and dreams.

The will to do the work … The determination to keep fighting … Building a better life for families and communities … The courage to do what is hard and good … Believe in what we can do together.

I’m a new day rising, I’m a brand new sky to hang the stars upon tonight.

It’s a new dawn … And I’m feelin’ good.

Words from President Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris, Amanda Gorman, Bruce Springsteen, Jon Bon Jovi, Foo Fighters, John Legend, Anthony Newly and Leslie Bricusse.

Janeen Shaffer is a PCC certified coach helping individuals and leaders with their internal development and external performance. If the article resonated with you, follow me on LinkedIn and check my other articles. Contact me at janeen@shaffercoach.com, www.shaffercoach.com, IG @janeen.shaffer, Pinterest Shaffer Coaching + Consulting.