If It Worked for Jesus …

When I was thinking about retiring from my corporate executive job in communications, I knew that I would not be retiring from life, just from a demanding job with my health on the verge of severe burnout.

I knew it was the right time to focus on giving back and doing something I always wanted to do: teach.

I wanted to share the wisdom I gained from the school of hard knocks so others wouldn’t have to suffer like I did. But what would I teach?

I was being called to teach my 4Cs Change Framework™, which leads to positive, lasting change. The 4Cs are clarity, connection, caring, and courage.

Since most change efforts fail, costing a great deal of time, money, energy, and resources, why not help leaders find a better way through better communications?

I thought, if I could make a positive change in someone’s life by teaching the 4Cs and how to apply them in business or in their personal lives, they can make a positive impact on another person’s life, and so on, and so on. Then, maybe, just maybe, we can make the world a better place one person at a time.

I’m convinced that this is not MY design; it’s God’s design. He just chose me to carry it out.

As I think about the leaders who set out to change the world, the first person who comes to mind is Jesus Christ. As I reflect on His many teachings, I realize that several of His teachings and themes from His ministry are similar to the 4Cs concepts I teach in my work as a certified leadership coach and speaker, as well as in my first book. For example:

• Jesus is clear about what he wants us to do—love our neighbor as we love ourselves, and to love him above all.
• Jesus expects us to use the power of connection and relationships to engage with other people, befriend them, give them the gift of time and support, listen to them, and be fully present—especially those in the most need. This is a critical element in my coaching work.
• Jesus expects us to care about other people; to care about the impact of our actions on others. To sacrifice our own needs to help someone else in need and to do so without expecting anything in return.
• Jesus expects us to have the courage to be disciples. To spread the good news that those who follow Him and God’s commandments, praise and thank Him, and beg Him for mercy will be welcomed into His Kingdom to receive His promise of eternal life.

There is something about us that makes them want to be around us. We radiate a contagious positive vibe. A close friend recently sent us a thank-you note that says, “You are truly some of the most kind, caring, generous, and thoughtful people I know, and I’m grateful to call you my friends.”

People often say things like, “You are so lucky; You guys are so blessed; You are always willing to help out, volunteer, and give back, and You are so generous. We love spending time with you because it’s always a positive experience.”

Here’s an idea: You can be that way too if you live more like we do, like Jesus did.

The next time you have a chance to help, listen, give someone your time, love, or show kindness for no reason, think about the 4Cs – clarity, connection, caring, and courage. Then ask yourself, “What would Jesus do?”

You don’t need to be religious or even Christian to do any of this. You just have to want to live a life full of purpose and joy.

To your prosperity!