LEAD

From Page 1 true lesson is to “lead where you are planted.”

As an employee of the American Red Cross in 1995 I saw this lesson demonstrated minute after minute, day after day and now year after year. We call it the Oklahoma Standard.

Having recently watched as we honored so many heroes at the 25th anniversary of the bombing, I was reminded of the thousands of stories of leadership that unfolded during that time. Everyone led. Everyone led where they were planted.

You don’t have to have a title to lead. It doesn’t have to be in your job description. Leadership is seeing a need for something to be better, raising your hand and saying “I’ll do it,” then rolling up your sleeves and giving it your all. And when you fall short, take the lessons you have learned and do it all over again.

What does that take? I believe it takes grit, grace and gratitude. Leadership is hard gritty work that will test you beyond what you thought were your limits. It takes grace. Being gracious and giving grace to others along the way. And it takes gratitude. Being grateful for the opportunity you have been given and for your God-given gifts and talents. But never forget, it also takes lots and lots of gratitude for those around you. Those who support you and those who come along side you. Remember, you are part of a garden called life.

Jerrod Shouse Shouse Consulting

It’s important to have relationships in your life with people you can learn from and turn to for advice. Find a mentor in your profession. Identify a colleague you trust and respect. Have a close friend whose success you want to emulate.

We all have to make tough decisions – both professionally and personally. And chances are, someone close to you has grappled with a similar situation. You can learn a lot from those who have gone before you. So make sure you have people you trust that you can turn to for counsel, and it will make those tough decisions a little bit easier.

Debby Hampton President & CEO

United Way of Central Oklahoma

I would advise young professionals who are looking to develop their leadership skills to find a mentor. I, personally, have several. When you find individuals who you admire, invite them to coffee or lunch and ask them for feedback on your ideas. In addition to listening to your mentors, observe their leadership style and how they interact with others.

I would also encourage aspiring leaders to always say yes! Whether you’re asked to attend a lunch meeting or join a professional group, you will always meet new people and I guarantee you will learn something. I remember when Carlos Johnson invited me to Economic Club, and I said yes because Carlos asked. Economic Club is not something I would have

See LEAD, Page C3

The Most Powerful Young Professional J.D. Baker, right, with Maurianna Adams during Oklahoma City Black Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Event. Baker