This year’s theme for Iron Leadership is: Run to Win. This phrase is lifted out of Paul’s exhortation to the people of Corinth in regard to their pursuit of an eternal reward. Paul urges the believers in Corinth to “make every effort.” I am sure Paul meant actual effort rather than aspirational effort. It’s easy to dream, but harder to do. Sometimes what makes our actual efforts more difficult is thinking we have to get everything done at once or insisting that it be perfect. It is more productive to incorporate one small (actual) task today that leads to the change we desire. 

Here are two resources that have helped me take some small actual steps which I hope will, over time, produce change. 

• I really enjoyed Oliver Burkeman’s article, “Doing Things is What Counts”. He writes, “The idea of change can be counterproductive if the modest challenge of doing a bit of a thing turns into doing it every day from now on….all that is required is that you do one bit today.” 

• Carey Nieuwhof’s conversation with Will Guidara in Podcast of Hospitality about building the best restaurant in the world was fascinating. Guidara spoke about how small efforts of hospitality can make a big difference. You will want to hear the story about the NYC hotdog! 

I am praying for you as you seek change in yourself as well as those you lead.