John C. Maxwell

Times of crisis almost always create memories we look back on as defining moments in leadership. They send us on a trajectory, either good or bad, towards some destination. Many of us realize our “life purpose” through this kind of an experience. I’ve always loved this quote by Winston Churchill:  “There comes a special moment in everyone’s life, a moment...

Recent events in Boston, MA and West, TX have reminded us of a stark reality: we cannot escape crisis situations. Although unable to avoid them, we can learn to lead people through them. In fact, dark, difficult times may be the moments when leadership is needed the most. While very few of us will ever be responsible to lead in...

At the end of the Revolutionary War, King George III allegedly asked his official court painter, American-born Benjamin West, about George Washington’s plans following the war. “They say he will return to his farm,” West replied. “If he does,” the incredulous monarch remarked, “he will be the greatest man in the world.” After the defeat and surrender of the British...

I am often asked how to successfully manage leadership transition within an organization. How do you end well? Or conversely, how do you start off on the right foot? My friend, Bob Russell, has written an excellent book, Transition Plan, on the successful leadership changeover following his 40-year tenure at Southeast Community Church in Louisville, Kentucky. I highly recommend it,...

When the Final Four tips off this weekend, some familiar faces will be roaming the sidelines in Rick Pitino of Louisville and Jim Boeheim of Syracuse. Together, they have more than 1,575 career wins, have taken 48 trips to the NCAA tournament, making eleven Final Four Appearances and claiming two national titles. However, the hottest coaching commodities in college basketball...

Successful coaches come with a variety of personalities. Mike Ditka and Bobby Knight exuded emotion whereas Phil Jackson had a stoical demeanor. Pat Summitt was the very picture of intensity, while John Madden was gregarious and affable. Geno Auriemma’s outspoken and animated style paints a stark contrast to Tom Landry’s poised and understated manner of patrolling the sidelines. Yet, for...