Why Every Leader Needs a Leadership Development Coach Today

 

In today's fast-paced and ever-evolving business landscape, leaders face unprecedented challenges that demand continuous growth and adaptation. To navigate these complexities effectively, many successful executives and organizations are turning to professional coaching as a strategic resource. Engaging with a coach can be a transformative investment, fostering enhanced decision-making, improved team dynamics, and sustained organizational success.

The Growing Importance of Leadership Coaching

The role of leaders has expanded beyond traditional management; they are now expected to be visionaries, motivators, and change agents. This multifaceted responsibility can be overwhelming, leading to stress and potential burnout. Leadership coaching offers a personalized approach to developing the skills necessary to meet these demands. According to the Financial Times, executive coaching is increasingly promoted by Executive MBA providers as a crucial career development service, with over 87% of programs offering coaching services in 2023, up from 58% in 2011.

Enhancing Decision-Making and Strategic Thinking

Effective leaders must possess the ability to make sound decisions under pressure. A leadership development coach provides a confidential space for leaders to reflect on their thought processes, challenge assumptions, and explore alternative perspectives. This reflective practice enhances strategic thinking and leads to more informed, effective decision-making.

Improving Team Dynamics and Performance

A leader's influence directly impacts team morale and productivity. By working with a leadership development coach, leaders can develop better communication skills, emotional intelligence, and conflict resolution strategies. These improvements foster a positive work environment, enhance collaboration, and drive overall team performance. As noted in an opinion piece, strong school leadership significantly enhances student outcomes through improved instructional practices and a positive learning environment, illustrating the broader impact of effective leadership.

Personal Growth and Resilience

Leadership roles often come with high stress and isolation. Coaching provides leaders with tools to build personal resilience, manage stress effectively, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. This personal growth not only benefits the individual leader but also sets a positive example for their teams, promoting a culture of well-being within the organization.

Staying Competitive in a Changing Landscape

The business world is in constant flux, with new technologies, market dynamics, and consumer expectations emerging regularly. Leaders who engage with a leadership development coach are better equipped to anticipate and adapt to these changes, ensuring their organizations remain competitive and innovative. The Times highlights that elite managers are increasingly seeking coaching to develop their skills and unlock potential, emphasizing the growing recognition of coaching's value in maintaining a competitive edge.

Conclusion

Investing in coaching is not merely a trend but a strategic necessity for leaders aiming to excel in today's complex business environment. By enhancing decision-making capabilities, improving team dynamics, fostering personal growth, and maintaining competitiveness, coaching serves as a catalyst for sustained success. Organizations and individuals committed to continuous improvement and excellence should consider the profound benefits that professional coaching can offer.

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Celebrations

Today, I would like to enlist your attention and ask the question “How are you celebrating life?”

I recently had the opportunity this past weekend to witness a celebration of life with a Birthday Party!

This Birthday was a combination of all those who recently turned 75 years old.  In addition, the party was held in Bay St. Louis Mississippi where my wife attended Catholic School from kindergarten to her Senior Year with many of her classmates.

As we listened and danced to the Music of Stevie Wonder’s “Happy Birthday” I was able to watch the faces of not only my wife but also her classmates.

Life is short, therefore we must celebrate it!  Particularly with family and friends, as I was in various mixed companies.

Stevie Wonder Happy Birthday

I was honored for those who attended the celebration sacrificing their time and energy.

The other celebration was Mardi Gras in both New Orleans, LA, and in Pass Christian, MS.

Without a doubt, the Pass Christian Parade Celebration was the best.

The reason it was the best was because I was surrounded by family and friends that I had known for years.

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.” – Helen Keller.

It was that comfort factor and watching the camaraderie that was associated with this particular parade of the people in Pass Christian.

When you have family and friends with homes close to the route and have attended Mardi Gras before you will understand what I’m saying.

It was like welcome and we’re so glad you are here at this time of the year to visit and be with us.

In my brother-in-law’s home, his wife has the Mardi Gras Tree all decked out and the house is festive.

It’s also a time for good eating and all-around relaxation before Lent begins on Wednesday.

In New Orleans, you saw the words and people using “Let the Good Times Roll” or in French “Laissez les bon temps rouler.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSX09kII0EU

It was a good time all around this weekend.

I asked upfront “How are you celebrating life?” Each of us makes decisions every day about how we want to live and must decide on the various celebrations to attend.

To the various people who attended the Birthday Celebrations, I made sure that I told each person thank you for attending.

I remember years ago when I was instructing resilience training and someone came to me with information about any subject, I should be grateful they chose me.

We choose people every day that we want to celebrate and those we don’t want to celebrate.

“Because life should be celebrated. We should remember the people who came before us, as much as the people who stood by our side.”

You should ask the questions why they chose you.

In a few days, I will begin my spiritual journey of Lent.

I desire to see things differently for the next forty-plus days until Easter.

By the way, the celebrations of the two parades for Mardi Gras were a good thing as people from all nationalities and backgrounds came together to have a good time.

There is a specific awareness each time I attend a Mardi Gras celebration or Birthday Party.

In both situations, there were plenty of smiles and laughter.

As I continue to age, I have learned the importance of smiling more.

Today, I challenge you to smile more often and enjoy life.  I’m reminded that Life is for the living!  I also encourage you to celebrate the people around you, because you never know if it is the last time, you will see them.

The month of March is upon us as we begin to celebrate the achievements of various Women for “Women’s History Month.”

Rosa Parks has said, “You must never be fearful about what you are doing when it is right.”

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/celebrations-2/

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Retirement

As you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day today, allow me to ask the question: When was the last time you were at a rest stop where people were traveling, and you had the opportunity to watch the working class start their day?

 

Recently, I had the opportunity to stop at a Love’s Gas Station this weekend before going to a retirement ceremony and a Buc-ees Travel Center returning home.

Although both are different experiences, I took time to count my blessings for being retired.

At Love’s Gas Station, I observe business owners starting their day, truckers brushing their teeth, and food industry workers making a living on minimum wages.

In contrast, at Buc-ees Travel Center, I observe the excitement of children being on vacation with family, those traveling getting something, and those in the food industry making probably more than minimum wage.

Not to mention that if you have ever stopped at any Buc-ees Travel Center, it’s all about the experience and a place where you don’t mind paying for the services you are rendered.

I’m also reminded that nowadays the word retirement has different meanings and connotations if you are working for yourself, a company, or an organization for example.

Having spent 30 years in the military and then 14 years as a Department of Defense Civilian, I spent more than half my life working.

When I retired the first time it was a different emotion than the second time.

In any case, having retired twice I know the feelings associated with retirement and not having to work to support myself.

There’s a specific feeling or emotion tied to retirement and I believe that unless you have retired from something it’s hard to explain.

Many might say “Been There and Done That.”

I’m now watching from a distance those who work for the Government being forced into retirement and those who have accepted the fact it’s time to retire.

What many consider a safe job is no longer at all.

I know that we have one life to live so why not live it to the fullest?

This past weekend I had the opportunity to share some brief comments during a soldier/friend retirement ceremony who served 30 years in the military as I reflected on our time in Germany.

I also had the opportunity to talk with another soldier/friend who recently retired on March 1, 2025, after serving 35 years in the military.

In both cases, I served in the military with two great Americans and watched them get promoted over the years.

This past weekend was also about the camaraderie of those associated with the military and celebrating their achievements.

There’s also another word called “Encouragement” that I picked up this weekend when I attended Mass.  It was part of a homily that ties in nicely with my thoughts today.

The Priest told the congregation that when we are young, we need encouragement and when we are old, we need encouragement.

He also said we need encouragement even when we are doing well.

I was encouraged to know how I helped others and the camaraderie we still share as Soldiers.

How fitting the word encouragement can be even with a change of lifestyle for being able to slow down sometimes and take time for others.

I also learned that in the Bible Romans 12:8 relates to the gifts of the Holy Spirit that Encouragement is one of them.

The spiritual gift of encouragement – What is it? – Compelling Truth

Romans 12:8-14 NIV – if it is to encourage, then give – Bible Gateway

I have learned that you will never know the impact we have on others until God wants them to reveal it to you.

Part of my DNA is adding value and being a Servant Leader.

I’ve always been about adding value to others as a servant leader.

I’m reminded of a famous quote from Zig Ziglar- “If you help enough people get what they want they will help you get what you want.”

Zig Ziglar You Can Have Everything You Want | Successful Spirit

Early in my career, many years ago, I learned the value of working as a team to accomplish the mission early in life.

In my mind, it goes back to the African proverb: “If you want to go fast go alone, if you want to go far, go together.”

Who first said: if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together? | Andrew Whitby

In my case, this weekend I was able to see the fruits of taking people with me over the years is amazing.  It’s amazing because I’m now watching their successes in and out of uniform.

There were so many stories told during the retirement ceremony and the evening social event of how far many of them have been in life.

I alluded to the fact earlier that the word retirement has different meanings.

Although some in attendance were in their second career, the fact we all had time to travel, fellowship, and have fun is another aspect of retirement.

Those two travel centers I mentioned in the beginning “Love’s and Buc-ees” allowed me to see those who are still working.

It also allowed me to see those who can take vacations and travel.

Although retirement has a different type of dichotomy, you and I are afforded the opportunities every day to decide how we will spend our lives once we do decide to retire.

There will always be people willing to make our lives easier with various creature comforts, signaling that if you are willing to pay for it you can have it.

The point is this, you worked hard for a reason, so why not enjoy the fruits of your labor while you can and enjoy life?

The next time you are out and about traveling think about those waiting to retire and those either on vacation or retired.  Count your blessings and be grateful for opportunities to attend retirement ceremonies and celebrate the successes of others.

Today, I challenge you to take some time this week to reflect and think about how your retirement is going.  However, if you are not retired how do you plan to get to that point?

I’ll leave you with this last quote. “Often when you think you’re at the end of something, you’re at the beginning of something else.” —Fred Rogers

The quote by Fred Rogers resonates with me because I’m also starting something new or learning something new now that I’m retired, what about you?

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/retirement/

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Spring Forward

This past weekend many of us had the opportunity to advance our clocks forward as we prepared for the arrival of spring.

 

Although there is plenty of controversy over the time changes, some just deal with it. While others complain, however, life still happens for each one of us.

 

For me, it has become an exercise of futility by counting the number of clocks in my home to ensure they are all at the same time and changing any batteries for those requiring them.

 

In my subconsciousness, I received a signal that spring was coming last week when I walked outside at about 05:30 in the morning and could see the ground without a flashlight.

 

I remember in my early years living in Germany where around 4:30 AM it would begin to get light.

 

I often think about those who live in Alaska that have daylight in the evening.

 

Alaska Daylight Hours Calculator | ALASKA.ORG

 

Today, our bodies are still reacting to the one hour lost to our sleep patterns, knowing it’s only temporary as we return to our normal selves.

 

I know there is something about our “Circadian Rhythm” and how we deal with the various functions that happen automatically within us.

 

What Is Circadian Rhythm & How Does It Work? | Nectar Sleep

 

I also know firsthand watching my father years ago before he died as he dealt with “Sundowners” and how Daylight Saving Time affects health in body and soul.

 

Sundown Syndrome: Causes, Treatment & Symptoms

 

Today, my heart goes out to the elders or aging population who are suffering from Alzheimer’s or dementia and are at risk of depression.

 

Hawaii and Arizona — with the exception of the Navajo Nation — are the only two states in the nation that do not participate in daylight saving time, according to the DOT.

 

Daylight Saving Time | US Department of Transportation

 

In the United States, daylight saving time begins annually on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.

 

In writing this blog I also had an epiphany of all the opportunities that advanced me forward in my career (Spring Forward).

 

Some of those opportunities I thank God for not giving to me because I wasn’t ready or it wasn’t what God wanted for me.

 

Maybe you too had what we call those “Sling Shot Moments” where you were catapulted into success.

 

I’ve learned that sometimes we must spring forward into action.

 

Because many of us don’t want to have any regrets about those “shoulda, woulda, coulda’s” moments in our lives.

 

Saturday was also International Women’s Day as many Spring Forward or #AccelerateAction.  What a great way to #AccelerateAction for Women’s History Month that is happening for the month of March.

 

International Women’s Day 2025

 

I accidentally stumbled on this website below that it is full of shoulda woulda coulda moments in our lives.

 

“Life is full of missed opportunities and regrets. We often find ourselves thinking about what we should have done, could have done, or would have done differently. These thoughts can consume us, preventing us from moving forward and fully embracing the present.”

 

Best Shoulda Coulda Woulda Quotes To Inspire And Reflect

 

Today, I challenge you to take some time this week to reflect and think about how you are going to spring forward and use this time to accomplish those goals you have put off.

 

On the other hand, if you are one of those persons who has accomplished everything that you wanted, then take a few moments to reflect on those things you are grateful you didn’t get an opportunity to accomplish because it wasn’t what God wanted for you.

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/spring-forward/

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Elevate Your Event with the Best Public Speakers in Alabama

Hosting a successful event requires more than just careful planning and logistics—it demands an experience that captivates and inspires your audience. Whether you are organizing a corporate conference, a leadership seminar, or a community gathering, having a compelling public speaker can make all the difference. A skilled speaker can engage, educate, and leave a lasting impact on attendees, ensuring that your event is not only memorable but also meaningful.

The Power of Professional Public Speaking

Public speaking is an art that goes beyond merely addressing an audience. It requires the ability to connect, persuade, and inspire. Best Public Speakers in Alabama are experts in their field, bringing years of experience and knowledge to the stage. They have the skills to transform complex ideas into engaging narratives that captivate listeners and encourage them to take action. By leveraging their expertise, you can create an event that not only informs but also motivates and empowers your audience.

 

Why You Need the Best Public Speakers in Alabama

Choosing the right speaker is crucial to the success of your event. Best Public Speakers in Alabama offer a unique blend of professionalism, charisma, and subject matter expertise that can elevate any occasion. Whether you need a motivational speaker to boost morale, a leadership expert to inspire executives, or a keynote speaker to set the tone for your event, Alabama boasts some of the most talented professionals in the industry. Their ability to tailor speeches to suit your audience ensures that your message resonates and leaves a lasting impression.

The Impact of Hiring a Skilled Speaker

A well-delivered speech has the power to shift perspectives, ignite passion, and drive positive change. Best Public Speakers in Alabama understand how to engage diverse audiences, making every speech impactful and relevant. They use storytelling, humor, and real-life examples to create an emotional connection with listeners. Whether addressing business professionals, students, or community members, they ensure that every attendee walks away feeling inspired and equipped with valuable insights.

 

Finding the Perfect Speaker for Your Event

Selecting the right speaker involves understanding your audience’s needs and aligning them with a professional who can deliver a compelling message. The best speakers in Alabama are known for their ability to engage audiences with powerful storytelling, actionable advice, and dynamic presentations. Their presence adds credibility to your event, attracting more attendees and increasing overall engagement.

 

Conclusion

A great event is defined by its ability to leave a lasting impression on attendees. By bringing in an experienced public speaker, you can ensure that your event is both impactful and memorable. Their expertise, charisma, and ability to connect with audiences can turn an ordinary gathering into an extraordinary experience. Whether you are planning a corporate function, a seminar, or a community event, the right speaker can help you achieve your goals and create a powerful, inspiring atmosphere.

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Mixed Emotions

Today I have mixed emotions particularly when it comes to the words desire and the heart.

 

In doing so I’d like to ask the question of have you thought about the word “Desire” and how often lately have you thought about it?

 

Desire is described as a (noun) with a strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen.

 

Today, my heart requires a course correction, which is why I have mixed emotions.

 

Nevertheless, today I will do my best.

 

Do you remember the Wizard of Oz and what the Scarecrow wanted and what the Tin Man wanted?

 

One a brain and the other a heart respectively.

 

Ironically this past Friday, February 7, 2025, was National Wear Red Day®, a day of the heart in case you missed it.

 

The first Friday of February is National Wear Red Day®, where the nation is encouraged to wear red to raise awareness for cardiovascular disease.

 

Why is everyone wearing red today? What to know about National Wear Red Day 2025

 

I’m grateful for a grateful heart!

 

Genesis 13-15 NIV – Abram and Lot Separate – So Abram went – Bible Gateway

 

Each of us must see the vision in our hearts and minds and once we receive it, it’s up to us to cultivate and have faith along the way.

 

That’s where the course correction resonates with me.

 

Although Abram didn’t understand at first until God changed his name to Abraham.  We must go through a specific transformation to see a vision in our hearts become true or a reality.

 

Listening to James Fortune & FIYA – I Forgive Me (Lyrics) best explains how I feel when the days in my life are challenging.

 

I have learned to look within and when I must touch my heart.

 

I’ve also learned not to wish for something but to do something about it.

 

Bing Videos

 

What is it about the heart that we take for granted?

 

Each of us probably has various answers, yet it remains a mystery.

 

In looking back at all the opportunities to learn from previous experiences, in uniform and out of uniform in the military, I don’t take things for granted.

 

Yet, I always ask how it is tied to my purpose in life.

 

I believe when you look inside and ask yourself what the lessons were, you had to learn, then you will understand the meaning behind the words “We have to go through it to get to it.”

 

How are we growing and moving beyond the fear that is holding us back?

 

Because, I have read and understand the concepts behind the book “Intentional Living Choosing a Life That Matters” by John C. Maxwell, I believe in my mission and not someone else’s.

 

There is plenty of data about our emotional intelligence under self-awareness; however, we can or cannot control specific things that happen in our lives.

 

The choice is ours!

 

Therefore, each of us must have a process for following our hearts.

 

What is in your heart today that could be holding you back, such as malice, contentment, or hate when people do things that upset you?

 

At some point we all have negative thoughts, it may not be those mentioned above, but something negative such as Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTS) that plagues us from moving forward.

 

It was learning about those ANTS during the time we were all in lockdown during the pandemic that I continue to draw upon the knowledge and wisdom of others such as Jim Kwik in his book “Limitless” and now his “Expanded Edition of Limitless.”

 

Yet as each day passes and I write in my gratitude journal, I get to receive a different insight into my heart.

 

I’ve also learned that we must be careful with our words when we speak negatively about a subject that we don’t “Intentionally” cause other hearts to have ANTS.

 

Therefore, in our conversation, we must keep things positive.

 

Do you remember donating to the Cuss Jar/Swear Jar that was used to discourage people from using profanity?

 

Because I’m not perfect and have my flaws to work on as I prepare for Lent, I have my own Cuss Jar/Swear Jar that I deposit negative thoughts in my head when negative thoughts flood my mind.

 

It’s a mindset shift that I must consistently work on as I prepare my heart for those internal confessions in seeking forgiveness.

 

Today I began this blog with mixed emotions particularly when it comes to the words desire and the heart.

 

Now that you understand why I have mixed emotions, how will you follow the desires of your heart by being more intentional and limitless by reducing or eliminating the ANTS in your life?

 

Depending on your faith, we are all descendants of Abraham.

 

It’s in doing so you can have what your heart desires if you believe and have a vision.

 

I enjoy hearing songs particularly associated with the heart when there are days in my life particularly when I must simply let it go!

 

There’s a page from the author Jim Murphy’s book “Inner Excellence-Train Your Mind for Extraordinary Performance and Fullness of Life” where he says “Your best moments always come from a clear mind and an unburdened heart.  This allows you to take the risks necessary to be everything you were created to be.”

 

Think about the story of Michelangelo’s sculpture as he uncovered David after the enormous block of marble used for the statue had been abandoned for 25 years.

 

Michelangelo’s sculpture of David was a risk, but he took it.

 

The Story Behind Michelangelo’s David | ITALY Magazine

 

Today, I challenge you to clear your mind and find Joy in your heart by clearing out things that are a burden.  You have nothing to lose but everything to gain.  If you have the time, listen to the words of inspiration in the Excess Love (Remix) (Official Video) with JJ Hairston and Mercy Chinwo featuring Youthful Praise and Gratitude.

 

This video is one of my favorite things to watch that touches my heart. The Lyrics are those of a person with a clear mind and unburdened heart.

 

“Your Love is Kind, Your Love is Patient, You fill my Heart, With so much Peace and Joy, You’re Amazing, You make my life Feel Brand New, Jesus, You’re Amazing, You make my life Feel Brand New, Jesus, You Love Me Too Much, Oh! Too Much, O, Too Much, Oh Excess Love, Oh Jesus, You Love Me Too Much, Oh!” “All Your Promises are Yea and Amen You’re Not A Man You Never Lie.”

 

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/mixed-emotions/

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Poised Under Pressure

As Black History Month begins to wind down, this week I found myself in Tuskegee, AL as I celebrated the accomplishments of the Tuskegee Airman.

 

My visit allowed me to relive some history and meet a gentleman within the Atlanta Chapter Tuskegee Airmen (John Harley).

 

Atlanta Chapter Tuskegee Airmen | Giving History a Future!

 

Part of what John was doing was escorting serval youth to give them a glimpse of what lies ahead for them in the future.

 

Poised under pressure was a thought that I had even before I stepped foot into the two hangers located on Moton Field, 1721 General Benjamin O. Davis Jr. Drive, Tuskegee, AL.

 

My visit to Tuskegee helped validate my thoughts.

 

Although the weather preempted the live-action paratrooper event from Original WW II Aircraft, it was still an amazing day being in the facility and reliving history.

 

I never miss an opportunity to learn from others as I spoke with Ranger Frank who provided me some insights also about the 555 or Triple Nickel Paratroopers.

 

Having spent two tours on jump status as a senior noncommissioned officer I remember learning of the Smoke Jumpers of Triple Nickel Paratroopers and their heroism while at Fort Bragg, now renamed Fort Liberty.

 

Forgotten WW2 Paratroopers – The 555th Triple Nickels

 

Bing Videos

 

555th History

 

Today I still struggle to understand why Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs are being dismantled.

 

I am grateful to see what others who operated with great poise under pressure have accomplished and what others continue to share with our youth like the Atlanta Chapter Tuskegee Airmen (John Harley).

 

What is a DEI program and what did Trump change? – NBC Chicago

 

I’m aware that I am the only person with one voice, I still have opportunities to share my stories one day at a time, each day, through my actions.

 

You might ask why the spin on the military with week?

 

Mainly to highlight the years 1941 to 1945 so that you can get a better understanding of those men who were poised under pressure.

 

I’m also reminded of what happened 81 years ago, almost to the date as it relates to breaking the color barrier with the Navy Officer’s Golden Thirteen.

 

These men dealt with prejudice and survived as many are unaware of the talents among their ranks.

 

U.S. Navy began training Golden Thirteen in 1944 – Mississippi Today

 

When I look at our history after the Tuskegee Airmen were founded in 1941 and when my father joined the military in 1945, I can only imagine the poise under pressure he felt in uniform for his 30 years of service.

 

John Wooden says” Most people think of poise as calm, self-assured dignity; but I call it “just being you.”

 

I’m honored that those who I speak about today were just being themselves.

 

Tuskegee Airmen ‑ Definition, Facts & Names

 

I know that many expected the Tuskegee Airman and the Navy’s Golden 13 to fail; however, it was their poise under pressure that helped them succeed.

 

I owe a debt of gratitude to all those trailblazers for being stronger than the average man and the courage to sustain it.

 

There is something to be said about the inner excellence of those men whose poise under pressure allowed them to stand tall against the adversity they faced in the military both in and out of uniform.

 

There is also something to be said having now visited three distinct locations in Alabama.

 

The Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, part of the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument and an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution, is a cultural and educational research center that promotes a comprehensive understanding of the significance of civil rights developments in Birmingham.

 

BCRI – Keep The Legacy Alive

 

The Montgomery Equal Justice Initiative as I have visited the Museum, Memorial, and Monuments to better educate myself about America’s history of racial injustice.

 

The Legacy Museum – The Legacy Sites

 

Home

 

And now this past weekend at Tuskegee spending several hours at the Tuskegee Airman National Site Hanger 1 and Hanger 2 Museum and Visitor Center.

 

Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site | HANGAR 1 MUSEUM AND VISITOR CENTER |

 

I’m still exploring because there is more to see in Alabama.

 

Additionally, two years ago I had the opportunity to visit the 10^th Cavalry Buffalo Solider Monument here in Huntsville AL.

 

I was part of the nexus that I had when I visited the Buffalo Soldier Memorial dedicated to the 9th and 10th Horse Cavalry Regiments in Junction City, KS over 26 years ago when I was on active duty.

 

Both solidified poised under pressure is a reality to me.

 

10th Cavalry Buffalo Soldier’s Memorial

 

Buffalo Soldier Memorial | Geary County CVB – Official Website

 

Today, when I think back hearing names such as Buffalo Soldiers, Tuskegee Airman, Navy Golden 13, and Triple Nickles.

 

Black women in the military have poise under pressure as well.

 

I know several female black “Jump Masters” who I’ve been on airborne operations with who demonstrated poise under pressure setting high standards each time as they excel.

 

I enjoyed watching the movie “Six Triple Eight” and how each of the women had poised under pressure dealing with adversity and prejudice.

 

The Six Triple Eight (2024) – IMDb

 

Maya Angelou’s Quotes to Inspire, Empower, and Encourage such as “I do my best because I’m counting on you counting on me” rings loud and clear in my heart.

 

Those words “I do my best because I’m counting on you counting on me” mean more than what you realize.

 

Today, I challenge you to ask yourself, who’s counting on you?  Will you be poised under pressure the next time someone says something that gets under your skin?  Finally, what are you doing today to open your aperture a little wider to expand your vision of those trailblazers who have made it possible for you to be where you are today?

Blog source: https://mckinleysthoughts.com/poised-under-pressure/

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