Franklin Roosevelt is and was one of the greatest leaders of all time. It is therefore no wonder that the term“100 days in office” originates from him. He accomplished so much in his first 100 days in office; despite numerous challenges; that many years later every American President, CEO or leader, is measured by what they do in their first 100 days.
The 9th October 2022 marked 100 days since my board, and I took over the leadership at The Rotary Club of Karen. As the incoming President, I approached this day with much anxiety, and great pressure. In life, however I am constantly driven by the question Why? One of my favorite authors Simon Sinek, has written an amazing book on this, and given numerous talks that inspire me a great deal. Every month I end our newsletter; and President’s corner; with the question “Why did you join Rotary?”
As Sinek explains, it’s not what you do that matters. It is why you do it. You have to understand why you do what you do. You must have the clarity of why? So reminding ourselves why we joined this great organization is critical to its growth, but ultimately to us as individuals and volunteers. “Rotary brings together a global network of volunteer leaders who dedicate their time, and talent to tackle the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges. Rotary connects 1.2 million members; from more than 200 countries; and geographical areas. Their work impacts lives at both the local, and international levels.”
Personally this is why I joined Rotary, as I believe in this cause. It calls for us to dedicate our time, and talents to tackle the world’s most pressing humanitarian challenges, and we do this through more than 200 clubs globally. This then allows us to have a great impact in people’s lives. Sinek explains that “Why” is just a belief. That’s all it is. So “everything you say, and everything you do has to show what you believe in.”
This year we are joining our RI President, Jennifer Jones in the “Imagine Rotary” theme. This shared confidence in each other; as well as a faith that together we can make the impossible possible; is such a great driving force for every Rotarian. As we marked these 100 days in office, it is a great reminder for this club to have the “Why?” conversation. The next chapter will truly be what Simon defines as “the action we take to realize our belief” above which is the How. “HOW reflects your values or principles that guide us on HOW to bring our cause to life. HOW is reflected in the systems, and processes within an organization. It is making sure everyone within the organization is accountable to staying true to the organization’s values.”
For us as Rotarians this is clearly defined; and well-articulated; in our business, and professional lives, as we abide by The Four-Way Test:
Of the things we think, say, or do:
1) Is it the TRUTH?
2) Is it FAIR to all concerned?
3) Will it BUILD GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
4) Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?