So today I am thinking about dogs. I came out to pick up my son from youth camp today and saw all these country dogs running around. I got to thinking about my dog. I’ve included a picture of Midnight the Wonder Dog for your enjoyment….

We have had Midnight since Christmas and it has fallen to me to train her. And I have learned some things about leadership in the process.

You see, Midnight just wants to make us happy. When I was trying to house train her, it didn’t do any good to yell at her when she messed up. What did work for us was taking the time to facilitate her success by taking her outside and encouraging her to do what she needed to do. When she figured out what we were asking of her, she was happy to cooperate!

So maybe I’m crazy but the thing that is on my mind today is the whole issue of reinforcement. Whether it is in the realm of parenting or leading a major organization, we deal with the issue of encouragement and motivation. Too often we don’t say anything to our kids or our staff/team until they do something wrong. How much better would it be if we could be an encourager instead and recognize them when they do things well. Then when we do have to correct them, the relational capital is already invested and they are much more likely to respond positively.

So remember me and Midnight. Take the time today to recognize when those you lead do something well. Find a way to be an encourager and see if the atmosphere doesn’t change for the better!

Peace!