Kristie's Oct Reading

Ch. 11 - Listening
What an important characteristic!!
With all of the newest and latest technology that we rely on everyday, I feel that listening is becoming a lost trait. Instead of calling and talking to someone, or visiting with them we text, email or facebook them, and wait for their response. Or if we are face to face visiting with someone; either they or ourselves are receiving and answering texts. Yes, I know that we are all capable of 'multitasking' but if we are really listening to someones heart - can't that text or phone call wait? We live in such a fast paced world that it requires much effort and discipline to really listen. Listening requires more than our ears, we need to capture the unspoken words, expressions, hurts, and feelings. I loved Larry Kings statement: "...nothing I say this day will teach me anything. So if I am going to learn, I must do it by listening."

Ch. 12 - Passion
'Nothing can take the place of passion in a leader's life.' I think this statement applies to all people, not just leaders. We live in a world of apathy. Many people have no passion, whether it is at work to do a job well, in a marriage or relationship that might be struggling, and most importantly in a relationship with Jesus Christ. It is easy to take an easy out and just not care.
I am reminded of a saying 'you have to stand for something or you will fall for anything'. What moves me? What am I willing to give my time for? Why do I get out of bed in the morning? What will I fight for as I take my last breath?

Ch. 13 - Positive Attitude
Two statements really clicked with me: 1)your attitude is a choice!! [I have believed this for years] and 2)maintaining a positive attitude is easier than regaining one.
I have two sisters, one is very negative. I love her but when I call her, our phone conversation is short (maybe 20 minutes) and to the point. My other sister is more positive and upbeat when I call her, we talk for at least an hour (usually more). Negativity breeds negativity - positive attitudes encourages positive attitudes. It is important to recognize which and who is influencing us. Bad things happen to everybody, but our attitude changes how that 'bad thing' may affect us. How do we choose to learn from that experience or do we let it become a gripe session. Do we sulk and take on the victim mentality or do we brush ourselves off, look at what can be learned and move on.

Ch. 14 - Problem Solving
"Rising to the challenge separates's winners from whiners."
We will all face problems, unfavorable events, and at some time make a bad choice or two. But most things can be corrected or at least worked out. The only true mistake is one we do not learn from. Problem solving requires so many of the qualities we have read; discernment, courage, initiative, and commitment.

Ch. 15 - Relationships
"People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." This statement speaks volumes. So many people develop relationships to benefit themselves, they really aren't concerned about how to 'better' the other person/people involved. Mr. Maxwell's statement: 'If your focus is on what you can put into people rather than what you can get out of them, they'll love and respect you.' SO GOOD!! When I examined myself according to Mr. Maxwell's 'reflecting on it' I feel I do well with long-term interaction, I am able to sustain relationships; however, my ability to mix well with strangers struggles severely. Which I think goes back to my communication skills. My prayer: that I will be able to pour into people this weekend at convention. Help me to put a '10' on everyone.