Leadership Lessons 2012
Specific Time of Year
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.”
~ Dr. Seuss (Theodor Seuss Geisel)
Make a Difference Day (Oct.)
The fourth Saturday of every October is Make a Difference Day – the national day to help others. As a student leader
you have the potential to make a difference every day simply through your words and actions. How exactly? Consider
some of these attitudes and behaviors that can positively impact the lives of those around you.
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Be Inspiring – Look for opportunities to reward and recognize those around you. Make a huge difference by reminding people that they are valued and appreciated.
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Celebrate Diversity – Display a complete appreciation and value for the various backgrounds, perspectives, ideologies and beliefs that everyone brings to the table. Make a big difference by learning more about those you are working with and by standing up for each individual’s basic rights when necessary.
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Encourage Growth – Be part of a win-win situation. Help others grow and in the process you will experience your
own personal growth. Make a difference by providing opportunities for your peers to gain new information or skills
through training programs, delegation and feedback.
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Demonstrate Ethical Behavior – Walk your talk and others will follow. Make a difference by simply doing the
right thing, even when it may be the hardest thing to do.
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Serve as an Agent of Change - Ask questions, challenge the process and deeply listen to new ideas. Make a difference by welcoming change into your life and valuing the possibilities it can bring.
Leadership Reflection…
Your Plans for Make a Difference Day
Are you joining a group of friends to rake leaves in your community? Or, maybe you have decided to volunteer
at a homeless shelter or food pantry. Whether you do it alone or with a group, whether you do it for an hour or the
entire day, please consider something you can do to make a difference! The impact you will have will be felt long
beyond this weekend.
On Make a Difference Day I will make a difference by…
Signed:
Date:
Need some ideas? Check out: www.usaweekend.com/section/MDDAY.
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