Celebrating the Past, Embracing the Future: The Significance of Black History Month

by Clarence E. Stowers | Feb 8, 2023 | Black History Month, Empowerment, Race, Success

Black History Month commemorates and honors the rich history, accomplishments, and contributions of African Americans to American society.

For nearly a century, this annual observance has been an integral part of American culture, serving as a symbol of pride and unity for the African American community.

From the efforts of historian and author Carter G. Woodson to today's celebrations and events, Black History Month holds a special place in the hearts of millions of Americans.

In this blog post, we will examine the origins and significance of Black History Month, as well as how it is observed, and reflect on both the progress made and the work that remains to be done. Join us as we celebrate and honor African Americans' rich legacy and impact on our country.

With that being said, let's delve into a deeper understanding of the importance of Black History Month.

Understanding the Importance of Black History Month

February is significant in American history since it is Black History Month.

This annual commemoration allows us to reflect on the diverse and significant contributions of African Americans to the fabric of American society. Black History Month has been an important part of American culture since its inception in the 1920s, acting as a symbol of pride and unity for the African American community.

Americans are encouraged to learn more about the African American experience and how it has influenced our country's history throughout this month. Black History Month serves as a timely reminder of all that African Americans have done in sectors ranging from politics to science to education despite adversity.

This month also serves as a reminder of the numerous ways in which African Americans have contributed to our country's growth via their ingenuity, perseverance, and determination. Let us look ahead to the future with hope and excitement as we reflect on the past.

With a better understanding of the importance of Black History Month, let's take a look at its origins and how it became a celebrated observance in America.

February is significant in American history since it is Black History Month. This annual commemoration allows us to reflect on the diverse and significant contributions of African Americans to the fabric of American society.

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The Origin of Black History Month

Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and author, was instrumental in establishing Black History Month.

He established the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1926 with the goal of promoting the study and acknowledgement of African American history.

Carter G. Woodson launched "Negro History Week" the following year, which was ultimately expanded to become Black History Month. February is utilized to honor and recognize the achievements of African Americans throughout history.

From the Revolutionary War to the present day, persons of African heritage have made substantial contributions to literature, science, medicine, civil rights movement, and other fields.

Furthermore, Black History Month allows us all to learn about the difficulties endured by African Americans in the past and now, allowing us to continue to strive for a brighter future for everyone.

Having traced the roots of Black History Month, it's time to delve deeper into why it holds such significance and why it continues to be an important observance in our society.

Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and author, was instrumental in establishing Black History Month. He established the Association for the Study of African American Life and History in 1926 with the goal of promoting the study and acknowledgement of African American history.

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The Significance of Black History Month

Black History Month provides a chance to educate the general public on the significant role that African Americans have played in molding American history. It is time to honor African Americans' achievements and efforts while simultaneously raising awareness about current issues and injustices.

Black History Month is also a time for reflection, as it allows us to assess the progress made in improving African Americans' rights and opportunities, as well as the work that still needs to be done. Everyone must engage in recognizing African American contributions to make Black History Month as successful as possible.

We can express our support in a variety of ways, from attending special events and lectures to shopping at African-American companies. Furthermore, residents can learn more about African American history by using the various resources accessible on the internet and through local libraries.

With a clear understanding of the significance of Black History Month, let's now turn our attention to how it is celebrated and the various ways in which communities come together to mark this important occasion.

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The Celebration of Black History Month

Black History Month is honored through a range of activities such as festivals, exhibitions, and presentations. The event is usually attended by schools and community organizations, with a focus on educating young people about African American history and culture.

Aside from these events, many people choose to observe Black History Month by reading books, watching films, and attending performances that highlight African Americans' achievements and contributions.

We may all learn more about the crucial role African Americans have played in our country's history through these activities. By commemorating Black History Month, we recognize the achievements of African Americans both past and present, while also remembering their continuous battle for equality.

Black History Month allows us to reflect on how far we have come in terms of racial progress and to identify areas where we may still make progress toward a more equal society. As we recognize the significance of Black History Month, let us also remember that it is a time for introspection as well as action. Through education, advocacy, and determined efforts, we have the ability to effect change in our communities. We can create a more equitable and inclusive society for everybody by taking concrete actions toward racial justice.

What activities can you participate in to commemorate Black History Month? Here are a few recommendations:

- Discover the history of African Americans in America. You can accomplish this by reading books, watching movies, or attending events at your local library or museum.

- Take part in a conversation regarding current racial justice and Black Lives Matter issues. This could be done online, in person, or with friends and family.

- Contribute to organizations dedicated to the advancement of African Americans. Supporting local businesses owned by people of color, donating money to non-profits, and volunteering for a cause are all examples of this.

- Purchase products from businesses that value diversity and inclusion in their workforce.

- Participate in Black History Month celebrations. Lectures, workshops, film screenings, and other meetings could all fall within this category.

In conclusion, as we celebrate Black History Month, we reflect on the past and look to the future with hope and determination.

Black History Month allows us to reflect on how far we have come in terms of racial progress and to identify areas where we may still make progress toward a more equal society.

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In the end, Black History Month is an important part of American history, and it serves as a reminder of the many ways in which African Americans have helped make America what it is today.

It is a time to reflect on the past, assess the present, and look to the future with hope and determination. Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements of African Americans and learn more about their rich history.

By going to events, reading books, supporting businesses owned by African Americans, and speaking up for racial justice, we can make a positive difference in our communities and work toward a better future for everyone.

Black History Month is a time to celebrate and pay tribute to the heritage and resilience of African Americans and to recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for equality.

3 Unknown Truths of Black History That Will Change Your Perspective Forever

by Clarence E. Stowers | Feb 2, 2023 | Black History Month, Empowerment

Black History is a rich and dynamic tapestry woven with the experiences of millions of people over centuries. While many of us are familiar with well-known figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Harriet Tubman, there is much more to this history than what is often taught in mainstream history books.

This blog post will delve into three unknown truths about Black History that are often overlooked but are just as crucial in understanding the full picture of this incredible story. With that in mind, let's delve into the first of the three unknown truths many may not know about Black History.

Truth #1: The Contribution of Black Women in American History

Many of us are familiar with the efforts of Martin Luther King Jr. and other male leaders in the Civil Rights Movement, but what about the contributions of black women? Despite facing discrimination on multiple fronts, black women have been at the forefront of social and political change in America for centuries.

One of the most notable examples of this is the Montgomery Bus Boycott. While Rosa Parks is often credited with starting the boycott, it was actually a collective effort led by black women, including Jo Ann Robinson and Claudette Colvin, who played key roles in organizing and maintaining the boycott for over a year.

In addition to their activism, black women have also been trailblazers in various fields, such as science, medicine, and the arts. For example, Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first black woman to become a licensed physician in the United States, while sculptor Edmonia Lewis was one of the most prominent artists of her time.

Having explored the first truth, it's now time to move on to the second truth, which showcases the ingenuity and innovation of people of African descent.

Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler was the first black woman to become a licensed physician in the United States, while sculptor Edmonia Lewis was one of the most prominent artists of her time.

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Truth #2: The African Roots of Many Modern Technologies

It is often assumed that technological advancements were made exclusively by Western civilizations, but the truth is that many modern technologies have their roots in African civilizations. For example, the mathematical concept of zero, which is critical to modern computing and finance, was first developed by the ancient civilizations of Africa.

In addition, many of the technologies we use today, such as iron smelting and metallurgy, were developed and used by African civilizations centuries before they were adopted in Europe. Furthermore, ancient African civilizations also developed complex systems of writing, such as the hieroglyphics of the ancient Egyptians, which laid the foundation for modern communication.

Having discovered the second truth, we now turn our attention to the final truth, which highlights the significance of the African Diaspora and its impact on cultures and societies around the world.

In addition, many of the technologies we use today, such as iron smelting and metallurgy, were developed and used by African civilizations centuries before they were adopted in Europe.

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Truth #3: The Global Reach of the African Diaspora

When we think of the African Diaspora, it is often in the context of the transatlantic slave trade and the forced migration of millions of Africans to the Americas. However, the African Diaspora is a global phenomenon that has had a profound impact on cultures and societies around the world.

From the vibrant Afro-Latinx communities in Latin America to the thriving Afro-Caribbean communities in the Caribbean, the influence of the African Diaspora can be seen in many aspects of these cultures, from music and dance to cuisine and spirituality. Additionally, the contributions of people of African descent can be seen in fields as diverse as literature, politics, and sports.

Having uncovered the third and final truth, we can now summarize the importance of these little-known facts in the larger context of Black History.

From the vibrant Afro-Latinx communities in Latin America to the thriving Afro-Caribbean communities in the Caribbean, the influence of the African Diaspora can be seen in many aspects of these cultures, from music and dance to cuisine and spirituality.

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In conclusion, the "3 Unknown Truths Many May Not Know About Black History" highlights just a small portion of the rich and diverse history of Black people. These untold stories serve to expand our understanding of the history of Black people and challenge the narrow perspectives often presented in mainstream history books.

By learning about these unknown truths, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the contributions and resilience of Black people and the impact they have had on shaping our world.

However, this knowledge is not enough. It is time for us to take action and make sure that these stories are acknowledged and celebrated. It is crucial for us to create an inclusive and diverse education system that accurately represents the contributions of Black people. This includes including Black history in the curriculum and giving equal recognition to the achievements of Black people.

We must also actively work towards dismantling systemic racism and creating a more equal and just society. This means listening to and uplifting Black voices, supporting Black-owned businesses, and advocating for policies that promote equality and justice for Black people.

Let us not forget the unknown truths of Black history. Instead, let us use this knowledge to drive us towards a brighter future where Black people are celebrated, valued, and treated equally. Take the first step today, educate yourself and others on the unknown truths of Black history and join the movement towards a more equitable world.

With a deeper understanding of the unknown truths of Black History, it's time to delve further into some frequently asked questions about the subject.

FAQs:

To further expand upon our newfound knowledge of the three unknown truths about Black History, let's take a closer look at some frequently asked questions about the subject.

These questions will help us delve deeper into the intricacies of Black History and gain a more comprehensive understanding of the contributions and impact of people of African descent.

By answering these FAQs, we will gain a clearer picture of the rich and diverse history of Black people and their significance in shaping the world as we know it today.

Q: Why is it important to learn about these unknown truths of Black History?
A: It is important to learn about these unknown truths because they broaden our understanding of the rich and complex history of Black people, and challenge the narrow and often biased perspectives that are presented in mainstream history books. By learning about these truths, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the contributions and resilience of Black people, both past and present.

Q: Who were some of the black women who led the Montgomery Bus Boycott?
A: Some of the black women who led the Montgomery Bus Boycott were Jo Ann Robinson and Claudette Colvin.

Q: Which African civilizations first developed the concept of zero?
A: The ancient civilizations of Africa first developed the concept of zero.

Q: What are some of the fields where the contributions of people of African descent can be seen?
A: The contributions of people of African descent can be seen in fields such as literature, politics, sports, and more.

Q: How has the African Diaspora impacted cultures and societies around the world?
A: The African Diaspora has impacted cultures and societies around the world in various ways, including music, dance, cuisine, spirituality, and more.

Q: What is the significance of learning about the unknown truths of Black History?
A: Learning about the unknown truths of Black History is significant because it expands our understanding of the history of Black people and challenges the narrow perspectives often presented in mainstream history books. It also allows us to appreciate the contributions and resilience of Black people more deeply.

The Real Reason Why Personal Finance is Not Taught in School

by Clarence E. Stowers | Jan 3, 2022 | Empowerment, Goals, Money and Finance, Self-Leadership

Our school systems teach us many subjects such as science, math, accounting, geography, history, the arts, and languages. But money is not one of them.

Why don't they teach money in school? Why isn't personal finance taught in school, and why don't all students have access to a personal finance coach before taking out student loans?

The answer is a mix of inertia in the system and failure to recognize financial literacy as one of the core skills needed to succeed in the 21st Century.

Today's post will explore why money should be taught at schools and why it's so essential for our children's futures that we start teaching money now. We'll also cover some tips on how parents can educate their children on money and how schools can teach money.

Personal finance is a core skill needed to succeed in the 21st Century.

Money is one of the essential things in our lives, but we don't learn anything about it in school. We learn about science, math, the arts, and languages, but we never learn how to manage our money.

This is a problem because money is one of the most important things in our lives. We need money to buy food, clothes, and shelter. We also need money to pay for our education.

Debt is another problem that we face. Many students take out student loans without ever learning about personal finance. This can lead to a lot of debt problems later in life. To avoid these problems, we need to teach students about personal finance in school.

Money is one of the essential things in our lives, but we don't learn anything about it in school.

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Some people say that personal finance is not a required subject in school. They say that we should learn about money by ourselves. This is not a good idea. We need to learn about money in school to avoid problems like debt.

Teaching personal finance in school is a good idea because it can help students:

- avoid money problems later in life

- plan their future budgets

- know how much money they need for college

- know what to do with money when it's time to pay for college

People who say that personal finance is not a required subject are wrong. We need to teach students about money to avoid money problems as adults. Personal finance is a core skill needed to succeed in the 21st Century.

Many students take out student loans without ever learning about personal finance.

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Two Reasons Why Money Isn't Taught in School

There are two reasons why money isn't taught in school: Inertia in the system and failure to recognize financial literacy as one of the core skills needed to succeed in the 21st Century.

Lack of Urgency in the System

The lack of urgency in the current education system is that money is not seen as an academic subject. This is due to the curriculum being drawn up in the 1800s. Students are already overloaded with many subjects to study, and money is not seen as necessary.

Failure to Recognize Financial Literacy as a Core Skill

There are many things that children need to learn at school to be successful in life. One of these skills is money management. Commercials and advertisements constantly bombard us with products to spend, so we should understand how money works, so we don't fall for these tricks.

Money isn't taught in school because they don't see it as necessary. Money is money, and money doesn't have a gender. It's not only women that spend money, and money isn't something that belongs to men or women exclusively.

Society has made money seem like a male-dominated thing, but we fail to realize that money doesn't discriminate against anyone based on their sex.

To make money a necessary subject in school, you can teach it interdisciplinary. This means that money shouldn't just be taught in math or business class.

Additionally, it should be taught in other classes such as English, history, and science. This will help money be seen as a more important subject and help students learn about money more holistically.

Giving students access to personal finance coaches is another way to make money a necessary subject in school. A personal finance coach can help students understand money and manage it. They can also help students who are struggling with money-related issues.

Teaching money in school is a good idea; money can be taught through different disciplines and give students access to personal finance coaches. Money management is not one of the subjects that school systems teach, and this needs to change. Education needs to include money management.

There are two reasons why money isn't taught in school: Inertia in the system and failure to recognize financial literacy as one of the core skills needed to succeed in the 21st Century.

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It's Hard to Teach What You Don't Know.

Schools teach everything else but money because it is hard for teachers and parents to teach children about money themselves when they don't know much about it themselves.

Most parents try to teach their children about money by setting an example. However, this usually doesn't work because it's hard for them to change their spending habits. They also typically don't have the money, knowledge, or financial skills to give their children sound advice. Schools can help fill this gap by teaching students about money.

Debt is another reason why personal finance should be taught in school. A recent study by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling found that two-thirds of millennials have debt and that the average amount of debt per person is $37,172. Students need to learn how to avoid debt and manage it if they acquire it.

The good news is that some organizations are already trying to fill the gap in personal finance education. The National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) is one of these organizations. NEFE created the High School Financial Planning Program (HSFPP), a comprehensive personal finance curriculum for high school students.

There are many good reasons why personal finance should be taught in school. Schools should teach students about money because it is hard for parents to teach their children about money themselves.

Debt is a significant problem for millennials, and there are already organizations trying to fill the gap in personal finance education.

Teaching personal finance in school is a step in the right direction to ensuring that all students graduate with money skills that can help them succeed in the future.

Schools teach everything else but money because it is hard for teachers and parents to teach children about money themselves when they don't know much about it themselves.

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Before You Take a $100,000 Student Loan

Students need access to personal finance coaches before they take out large student loans or enter into other debt agreements that will affect their lives. Most students take out student loans without fully understanding the consequences of their actions.

They may not know how to budget their money, they may not understand compound interest, and they may not calculate how much money they will need to pay back in total. That's why it's so essential for students to get access to personal finance coaches before they take on any significant debt agreements.

A personal finance coach can help a student understand all of the terms of a loan agreement and help them make a repayment plan.

A money coach can help students avoid debt and live within their means. Being in debt can affect a student's life in many ways. Many students graduate with over $20,000 of debt and interest.

To avoid taking on additional debt after school, money coaches can help graduates develop their money management skills.

Students need access to personal finance coaches before they take out large student loans or enter into other debt agreements that will affect their lives.

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In conclusion, money should be taught as a subject in school so that students can learn how to manage money properly. If you want your child or student to have money skills for the future, they need access to personal finance coaches before taking out loans and entering into debt agreements.

Schools provide education on many subjects, but financial literacy is not one of them - this needs to change. Otherwise, we may see an even higher unemployment rate due to a lack of money management skills among millennials already struggling with debt from over $37K on average!

Let's hope schools pick it up so we can all rest a little easier at night, knowing our kids won't be crushed by money problems when they enter the working world.

The National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE) created the High School Financial Planning Program (HSFPP) to help fill the gap in personal finance education. HSFPP is a comprehensive personal finance curriculum for high school students. It covers budgeting, saving money, credit, debt, and investing.

How to Make 2022 Your Best Year Ever

by Clarence E. Stowers | Dec 31, 2021 | Decisions, Empowerment, Encouragement, Goals, Motivation, Resolutions, Self-Leadership

I know. I know. I know. For some, 2020 and 2021 were an emotional rollercoaster.

You've been through a lot this year, and you're not sure what to expect in 2022.

You experienced many disappointments. But this too shall pass, and it's time for a fresh start in 2022. We've experienced drastic changes this year, and our bodies and minds have reacted with increased anxiety levels - but with the proper coping mechanisms, you can get through it.

Everybody is usually trying to reinvent themselves at this time of year. We've all gone through too much to cave in to such pressure, whether from the outside world or ourselves.

Today's article, "How To Make 2022 Your Best Year Ever" will help you stay positive while things around us change. By following our tips, we'll make sure your New Year's resolution of making 2022 your best year ever stays intact throughout the entire year.

Let's get started!

It's Hard to Go When You Don't Know

The pandemic that began in 2019 has lasted much longer than anyone anticipated. There have been many different predictions about how long it would last, but none have proven accurate.

One of the challenges we face is that we still do not know how to get rid of the virus. There were vaccines, but they haven't wiped out COVID. There have been many variants that have emerged, sending us right back into a state of panic.

While some may feel hopeless in the face of this epidemic, I believe that we must continue to fight. We cannot give up because we do not have all the answers. We must find new ways to combat this virus and save as many lives as possible.

Furthermore, the negative cycle of over-expectation and disappointment can take a toll on our mental health. Repeatedly being let down can lead to emotional trauma and depression.

Devastation like this, plus lack of financial security for many people who lost jobs, has led many industry leaders to believe we're in the middle of a depression, like when war rages.

While some may feel hopeless in the face of this epidemic, I believe that we must continue to fight.

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Something is Better Than Nothing, Right?

The aftermath of tragedy has affected how some people can enjoy life. People who were out and about before the pandemic are now taking caution to ensure their safety. Still, they may feel down because they can't enjoy life to its fullest.

For one, we're putting pressure on ourselves to have fun at a time like this. We're "shoulding" ourselves, according to Silvia M. Dutchevici, psychotherapist and founder of the Critical Therapy Center.

"Shoulding" implies I should go out and be having a good time; I should want to see my friends. Our "shoulds" may not be what we want.

Many people find that they are exhausted after the holidays. This may be because they have spent a lot of time entertaining others. After Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Eve, some people don't even want to keep up their social connections.

It is hard to be with others and remain focused. Because we haven't interacted with others for so long, we have to reset our approach after a traumatic event and whether or not we want to. There's also the seemingly never-ending COVID anxiety that always lurks in the background.

Because we haven't interacted with others for so long, we have to reset our approach after a traumatic event and whether or not we want to.

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Here's How You Can Make 2022 Your Best Year Ever

Manage Your Expectations

Can we as individuals do anything to feel better? Fortunately, we can.

The first is to manage expectations. Or, as I often say, "control what's controllable. Since the pandemic, life has changed in many ways. One thing that is important to understand is that there is no going back to how things were before.

Trying to recreate something you lost is likely to lead to disappointment. However, if you look ahead, there are opportunities for growth and different connections that may even be better than what came before.

Trying to recreate something you lost is likely to lead to disappointment.

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Live in The Moment

Next, make it a habit to live in the moment. Human beings are naturally uncomfortable with the uncertainty of the world. However, planning for six months or a year from now may lead to disappointment later because we still don't know how things will shake out.

Instead of thinking of consequences that may or may not happen in the future, think of what you have right now. Think about how far you've come from where you were one year ago, six months ago, two weeks ago.

Instead, try to stay calm and not worry about what will happen in the future. What will happen is unpredictable. We need to learn how to do this because it will be important in 2022.

Instead of thinking of consequences that may or may not happen in the future, think of what you have right now.

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Rest is a Weapon That Allows You to Reset

Finally, remember rest is a weapon that allows you to reset.

There's a reason we liken the pandemic to the zombie apocalypse. It sounds like something from a horror movie, and that's because it feels like one too.

The world is exhausting, and people are tired as we get ready to start the third year of a pandemic. We can barely keep up with work, let alone anything else in our lives; there's no time for creativity or innovation anymore.

Resting allows resetting through reflecting.

Taking the time to reflect on the good and bad moments of 2021 is essential. It allows us to celebrate our accomplishments and learn from our challenges. It's crucial to remember that no year is without ups and downs, so even though 2021 may have been tough, there were still plenty of happy moments. By acknowledging what we've been through, we can give ourselves the space to process it all and move on stronger than ever.

Taking the time to reflect on the good and bad moments of 2021 is essential. It allows us to celebrate our accomplishments and learn from our challenges.

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The year 2022 presents many opportunities while also causing us to change the way we do things. We must take care of ourselves and our families and stay strong during this process. Hopefully, by following these tips, we'll be able to make 2022 a year to remember.

Should I Follow My Head or My Heart: 5 Questions to Ask Before Making Decisions

by Clarence E. Stowers | Dec 14, 2021 | Decisions, Empowerment, Encouragement, Motivation, Self-Leadership

Should I Follow My Head or My Heart: 5 Questions to Ask Before Making Decisions

I fondly remember my children agonizing over which college they would attend. We created spreadsheets, lists of pros and cons, prayed, and even burned candles while wearing sackcloth and ashes (just kidding).

Let's face it; making significant decisions is not easy. It's exhausting.

For those struggling with making decisions, how do you know when you're listening to your heart or you're listening to your head?

Let's face it; decisions are emotionally painful.

The word decision is of Latin origin. It means to cut away from the past.

If you're married, it means cutting away from being single.

If you have made people (children), it means cutting away sleeping.

If you are a business owner, it means cutting away from security.

That's why most decisions are painful.

To make a decision, we have to confront our fears and doubts head-on. When making decisions, we often think in black and white terms: right or wrong, good or bad. But the truth is, most decisions are neither right nor wrong. They're simply choices. And the more critical the choice, the more difficult it is to make.What happens when the battle within you is between what your heart believes and your brain dictates and what your inner wisdom tells you? So this is a question about whether you make decisions with your heart or head, and how do you know?

Before the pandemic, I made the majority of my decisions with my head. I logically weighed pros and cons, considered others' opinions, and made choices that I thought were wise. I now realize that this habit caused me to miss out on joy and happiness.

For example, before the pandemic, I would have never considered taking a spontaneous trip with my family or friends. I would have thought about all potential risks and what could go wrong. Now, I know that those types of trips bring me a lot of happiness, and I'm more likely to take them because my heart is telling me that the risks are worth it.

Why? Time is a non-renewable resource. Once lost, it's lost forever.

When you make decisions with your head, you're usually trying to avoid pain or gain something. You want to be safe, and you want what you believe is the best outcome. However, when you make decisions with your heart, you often look for something different. Something that might be a little risky, but that has the potential to make you happier.

Today, I trust my instincts and emotions more than my intellect.

You can analyze the fine print and contracts using your head. But when it comes to making a decision, look inwardly and check it against your heart and soul.

So, how do you do that?

According to Mel Robbins, here are five questions to ask when making decisions.

5 Questions to Ask When Making Decisions

Is the decision you're about to make help you develop your future or expand your life's possibilities? If it's a yes, then no matter how terrible it seems, the decision is a yes.
Will this decision restrict, inhibit, or silence you? If so, the answer is no. No matter how easy the decision is, no matter how safe that decision is. The answer is no.
Will this decision expand or limit my voice?
Will this decision open the door to new possibilities or build a wall that prevents progress?
Does it raise my voice, or does it silence me?

Remember, there's always a short-term and a long-term impact of the decision.

When making a decision, it's essential to think about that decision's short-term and long-term impacts. The short-term consequences are the things that happen immediately after the decision. The long-term effects are the things that happen down the road, sometimes many years after the decision is made.

It's essential to think about both of these impacts when deciding because they can be very different. The short-term effect might be exciting or seem like a good idea at the time, but the long-term implications might be very different. It's crucial to weigh all of the pros and cons of a decision before making it, so you can be sure that you're making the right choice.

Do you agree or disagree?

I'd love to hear how you make decisions?

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3 Types of Friends You Will Have as a Leader

by Clarence E. Stowers | Dec 7, 2021 | Empowerment, Encouragement, Leadership, Relationships

3 Types of Friends You Will Have as a Leader

3 Types of Friends You'll Have as a Leader

"How do I know who is a friend and who isn't?" asks the leader. It's like Charlie Brown trying to find out if Lucy will hold the football for him again. Sometimes you're sure that person is your best friend, but then they go and do something that makes you question their loyalty. Whatever the case may be, every leader has three types of friends: Positional Friends, Transactional friends, and Real Friends.

Positional Friends

Most leaders' friends are positional because it's easy to be friends with people in high positions. The leader doesn't have to do anything except hold a position of authority for people to want to be around them. Additionally, when positional friends surround the leader, they can quickly get information and access things they need.

Most leaders' friends are positional. This means that they are friends because of their position or social status. For example, if I'm the President of the United States, then the Prime Minister of Canada might want to be my friend because I have power and can make decisions that affect him.

Additionally, people want to be close to the leader to increase their position. They might like to be considered for a promotion or have more power. They might wish the leader to pull strings and increase their access or ability to move forward somehow.

More often than not, these people are trying to get close to you for their gain. They might be looking for some form of recognition, reward, or promotion. Or they might be looking for something else altogether. There's no guarantee whether they will be there when you need them the most, and it's good practice to know where your true friends lie. When you're a leader, positional friends are the ones you'll find yourself surrounded with most often.

While it might be comfortable and convenient to have positional friends, it's important to remember that these people aren't always there for you. They are only looking out for themselves and their interests. In addition to having positional friends, a significant number of leaders' friends is transactional.

Transactional Friends

The second group of people who want to be close to you is transactional. These people will give friendship in exchange for something that increases their status, like increased power or access. They're your biggest fans and say nice things about you in public and to others when they're not around.

Transactional friends usually want to get close to the leader in exchange for something that benefits them. Maybe they want access to power or resources that they wouldn't typically have.

They want to be seen as close to the leader and might even try to get pictures or post about how great it is to be friends with you on social media. But, when the transaction is over, and they don't need anything from you anymore, they'll move on. They won't be there for you when the chips are down.

Furthermore, these are the people that only know you when you're in a position of power, and they're looking for their success. They might want to be in your inner circle because it increases their status, but if you get fired or demoted, they'll move on to someone else who's close to the top.

As a leader, it's essential to be aware of these people and what they're looking for. In addition to positional and transactional friends, few leaders have relational friends.

Real Friends

The final group of a leader's friends is relational. These friends will be there for you even if your leadership role ends. They're mature enough to understand that leadership doesn't end with one person; it's part of a more extensive process, and they'll stick around to see what happens next. These friends are relational, meaning they care about the leader for who they are, not just for the position they hold.

It might be hard to differentiate between your transactional and real friends. They both say nice things, they're both there for you in some ways, and they might even do similar things.

But real friends will be by your side no matter the outcome on the job or a project. If it succeeds, they'll celebrate with you. If it fails, they'll be the ones to help you pick yourself up and dust yourself off. They're the ones who are there for the long haul. A leader's true friends are those who are there for them no matter what the outcome is.

It can be challenging to tell the difference between transactional and real friends, but there are some key distinctions. Transactional friends will be there for you as long as you're able to give them something in return. They might celebrate your successes, but they'll also be there to pick you up when you fail. On the other hand real friends, will be there for you no matter what the outcome is. They're not looking for anything in return; they want to be friends.

Discern Who Truly Cares About You

Knowing who truly cares about your success is an integral part of being a leader. Don't be afraid to cut off the transactional and positional friends in your life – it's not worth it to have them around if they're not going to be there for you when you need them the most. And, remember, just because someone is a relational friend doesn't mean that they're perfect. There will be times when they say the wrong things or make decisions that don't align with your goals.

But, in the end, relational friends are worth their weight in gold. Loyalty is hard to find these days and an invaluable trait for anyone who wants to succeed. So, choose your friends wisely and stay loyal to them through thick and thin.

As a leader, it is hard to know your true friends. Most leaders' friends are positional or transactional because they want something in return for being there for you when you need them the most. Your relational friend will be loyal no matter the outcome on the job or project and won't leave just because of one failure.

It's difficult to tell whether someone is more transaction-oriented than relationship-oriented. Choose wisely when choosing friends and stay loyal through thick and thin!

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