“Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life — think of it, dream of it, live on that idea. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of that idea, and just leave every other idea alone. This is the way to success” — Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902).
Ever have a boss who seemed guided by this philosophy? He may not be familiar with the person who wrote these words (Swami was a Hindu monk.), but the same principles influence his decisions.
This kind of boss expects employees to work long hours to achieve his personal goals. Ideas from others are not well accepted, because he is, after all, the expert. He’s read all the books on management theory, marketing strategies, and profit maximization. Suggestions are superfluous.
But, there is a new form of executive leadership garnering attention. September’s issue of Sky Magazine ran an article, “The Enlightened Leader,” that highlights this innovative leadership model. Workshops, webinars, even courses are available for training.
Included in the curriculum are these four topics: 1) Character , 2) Purpose, 3) Integrity, and 4) Values.
How ironic that business experts are returning to such ancient principles–Biblical principles. For example:
1) A person of character is trustworthy, respectful, responsible, fair, and caring. Someone with character pursues righteousness and love; then he finds life, prosperity, and honor (Proverbs 21:21).
2) A person of worthwhile purpose is not focused on the bottom line of the financial spreadsheet. He/she takes to heart Paul’s advice: “Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweet-talk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage. Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand” (Philippians 2:3-4, The Message).
3) A person of integrity walks securely (Proverbs 10:9). He’s not wishy-washy, making decisions based on what’s expedient for the moment. “The integrity of the upright guides them” (Proverbs 11:3) to be wise and caring.
4) A person with moral values lives by an ethical code of behavior, summed up by Jesus in the Golden Rule. “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you” (Matthew 7:12).
It’s tempting to respond with a smug comment like, “It’s about time the experts came around to God’s way of handling business!” Except…
…I still have character traits that need refinement.
…I do not live up to God’s purpose for me each day.
…Integrity still needs further development in my life.
…My choices do not always reflect my values.
It doesn’t matter if I am a leader of a large organization or a leader in my home. I am called to have a positive effect within my circle of influence (Matthew 6:13-16). And that circle is surprisingly wide when I include extended family, friends, neighbors, business associates, church acquaintances, etc. In fact…
“…Sociologists say that even introverted people will influence an average of 10,000 people in their lifetime” (The Maxwell Leadership Bible by Dr. John C. Maxwell, p. x).
So what’s the first step toward success?
Perhaps commitment—commitment to God as a willing student in his course of leadership. Commitment to prayer throughout the day, as choices present themselves. And commitment to persevere toward wisdom, because:
“Blessed is the man who listens to me [wisdom], watching daily at my doors…For whoever find me finds life and receives favor from the Lord” (Proverbs 8:34-35).
* * * * * * * * * *
Thank You, Father, for the absolute truth of your word. New ideas come and go, but your wisdom that leads us to success never fails. Forgive me for the times I have ignored your word. I want to be a woman of godly character, fulfilling your purpose with integrity, and reflecting your values. That’s the kind of success that will provide lasting satisfaction and fulfillment in my soul. Thank you for continuing to work on me. Amen.
(photo & art credits: www.signsforyourlife.com, http://www.averyemployment.com, macondesigns.wordpress.com, http://www.signsforyourlife.com, calcuttaherald.wordpress.com.)
From the Inside Out 
Thanks again Nancy for the message. I feel I am always a work in progress, God is not done with me yet. Waiting on Him for my next journey and what His plan is for me. God bless you.
I’m right beside you on the journey, a work-in-progress, waiting on him for what’s next. I’m so thankful for sisters such as you to accompany me!
wow I love it how you took a current topic with up to date info and turned it into a great Biblical lesson and something to think about. Great words!
Just those four words–character, integrity, purpose, and values–give plenty to think about, don’t they. Thank you, Jean, for your encouragement!
Excellent post, Nancy!
I really like that opening quote.
Thank you, Bill. Yes, there is applicable truth in that quote, even if it was written by a Hindu monk. For example, if I replace the word, “idea,” with “Jesus,” the quote takes on powerful significance: Take up Jesus. Make Jesus the focus of your life — think of him, dream of him, live on him. Let the brain, muscles, nerves, every part of your body, be full of Jesus. This is the way to success” (fulfillment and satisfaction in life). Reminds me of Paul’s words to the Philippians: “I consider everything a loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (2:8)!
I am glad that I read this post TODAY. It was one of those days that my interactions with my loved ones was way out of whack. There were five of us in the car going to visit my youngest nieces’ new baby half- brother. There were three adults, a 12-yr-old and an 8-yr-old in the car. ALL five of us got on each others nerves; and none of us were practicing good character, purpose, integrity, or values as God would have us as born-again Christians to do. Thank the Dear Lord that we can go to Him in prayer (which we did when we got back home), asking for His forgiveness. A work in progress, indeed, is what I am. Perfect posting for me today!
Praise God he used this post to address your situation, right when you needed it! I love it when he does that–and it happens often!