Make The World A Better Place & Dismantle Status

July 30, 2011 11 Comments


I want to dismantle status.

I learn from my students every day. I’m excited to see them charge forward to discover on their own. Even if – no, especially if,  it means disproving my preconceptions.

Leadership is a process of service, not command. It’s a product of vision and inspiration.

Look at the moon, not the finger pointing to it.


Dismantle Status was written by improv guru Jay Olson. Jay also has a great tumblr (click here) and is an amusing inspirational chap to follow on twitter. Click here if you are interested in writing a  Creative Guest Post for Seven Sentences.

 

2011 Copyright Seven Sentences – Dismantle Status

About GeoffTalbot: Geoff Talbot is the founder of this Creative Blog. He loves writing words that encourage creative people.

All Posts by
  • http://thisdreamersjourney-lynne.blogspot.com/ Lynne Holder

    A teachable teacher, a servant leader. Great post, Jay. Hit that nail on the head.

    • http://jayolsonimprov.com JayOlson

      Thanks Lynne! :o )

  • http://sevensentences.com Geoff Talbot

    I love the comment about “‘looking at the moon.”  Question: Should a leader ever use his authority? What does that look like

    • Anonymous

      The leader’s authority is at work when she says, “We have a problem. I need your help.” “Go and be great.” “Let me know how I can best support you.”. “Thank you.”

    • http://jayolsonimprov.com JayOlson

      It depends on where your responsibilities lie, I suppose. An obligation for others’ welfare might compel you to do so. Although I already hate this example as I type it – A representative vs. direct democracy.

      Good question, Geoff. Thanks!

      • http://sevensentences.com Geoff Talbot

        It’s a really great blog Jay… of course this type of leadership is the most difficult… hence why we more naturally resort to top down authority… Must be humble to simply look to the moon

  • Anonymous

    I like your reference to leadership as a “process” of service. Process points to continual movement, action, growth. Many forget that leadership is not the end point, but the action along the journey.

    • http://jayolsonimprov.com JayOlson

      I think so. Right? I mean, it’s not a weapon to be used against those you lead.

      Thanks for your comment!

  • Belinda (writerunblocked)

    Jay, I understand how you feel. I am astonished daily by my students.  In order to be a good leader, we must be willing to listen and learn from those you are supposed to be guiding.  

    Excellent post, Jay. 

    • http://jayolsonimprov.com JayOlson

      Thank you, Belinda!
      Becoming a dad changed my perspective on everything. Especially leadership. I want to be my son’s friend, but parenting comes first. It’s not easy.

      - Jay

  • Anonymous

    I love your perspective.  Especially on leadership as a product of vision and inspiration.  The imagery of looking at the moon and not the finger pointing to it is a wonderful reminder of both humility and humanity.  We do not create the moon; yet we were created by the same awesome Creator who made the moon.  To capture this in leadership is a gift to others, to ourselves, to God.

    Discovery provides us a glimpse of the greatness of others.

    And teaching with humility encourages those who would learn from us, with us, the opportunity for discovery.