Why "Bowling Alone" hurts Gen X

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http://www.toastmasters.org/MainMenuCategories/FreeResources/QuestionsaboutLeadership/PositiveLeadership/LawsofPositiveLeadership.aspx

I recently had a goodbye dinner with some business colleagues in the Asheville market when a person I respect said that attending Toastmasters changed his life for the better.

I have always heard about Toastmasters from people such as Jeffery Gitomer during my days in Charlotte.

But as Mr. Putnam wrote in his book Bowling Alone, people in my generation are joining fewer of the traditional clubs which is why organizations such as the Jaycees are seeing a decline in membership.

So as I am going through a career change, I began to look at options of where to network in my new home of Chapel Hill, NC. I began to think of my friend at dinner and looked up the toastmaster web site.

I found this list of leadership lessons that I thought was appropriate.

• Give more than you expect others to give.
• Combine optimism and perseverance.
• See everyone as a diamond in the rough.
• Express appreciation; accept responsibility.
• Keep your ego in check.
• Show respect for the people around you.
• Treat team members as family.
• Be a source of inspiration.
• Stress cooperation, not competition.
• Maintain a sense of humor.

These are admirable traits in a leader that I would want to be my mentor.

Be part of the solution! Decisions are made by those who participate!

Featured Link of the day:
http://www.toastmasters.org/MainMenuCategories/FreeResources/QuestionsaboutLeadership/PositiveLeadership/LawsofPositiveLeadership.aspx