I consider myself an “Electric Executive”, and I believe you can too. What does that mean? How do you get there? I believe a key distinguishing characteristic between good and great leaders is the ability to harness their passion and translate that directly into their work as a leader. John Maxwell is often quoted saying, “the true measure of leadership is influence- nothing more, nothing less.” Your electricity, will build your influence.
I am asked daily how I have so much energy? My usual response is, coffee! However, the caffeine only accounts for about 10% of my energy and enthusiasm. The real answer is that I wake up and take charge of the day. These habits and my energy have been developed over years. As a formerly homeless child, who grew up in poverty, I am now Executive Director of a homeless shelter. My day often involves dealing with difficult circumstances that have an impact on societies most vulnerable people. How does one keep the fire, maintain the passion, and make an environment that is electric? I will lay out a roadmap for you to become electric through this site. However, having the map doesn’t mean you will make the journey, that will require action. As a disclaimer, this is my take on how to take control of the passion in your personal and professional environment. I am a huge fan of some of the motivational, leadership and self-help pioneers. I frequently make the joke that if I were to ever get a tattoo it would be of Les Brown. Les is an example of someone who has a magnetic personality and story. Les has shown through his life journey as a DJ, politician, and motivational speaker that people can achieve anything if they set goals and strive towards those goals.
If you are hoping this site will be a version of Marcia Griffiths’ “The Electric Boogie”, I must apologize in advance. However, I will draw this parallel to Marcia’s opening lines, “You can’t see it, It’s electric! You gotta feel it, It’s electric! Ooh, it’s shakin’, It’s electric!” Often this is very true of our personal and organizational culture. Sometimes you can’t see it and you must feel it.
Ironically enough the name, Electric Executive, came to me while I was in the middle of a sweat session on a Stairmaster. I thought to myself, that is kind of cheesy but I believe it could work. The initial framework came easily. Sit back, and enjoy the ride, if I’m lucky I’ll be able to “shock your eyelids.” A shout out to my brother Jayson for introducing me to that terminology.