Yesterday, I attended a family reunion. Held in a small Minnesota farming community Town Hall, over one hundred relatives with deep Midwestern roots shared a potluck meal, hugs, the old stories and gentle wistful memories of aunts, uncles and cousins with us now in spirit. The remaining family patriarch sat quietly overlooking the busy, noisy scene, gracefully acknowledging well wishers and always remembering each face. Cousins I grew up with playing hide and seek in the hay barn and swimming in the lakes now sport grey hair, lined faces and a few extra pounds. Each one shared with me a sweet recollection of good times and friendship, treasuring adventures and kindnesses that often I had forgotten. As I drove back home, I felt so uplifted and so deeply connected to my people and the values that form me.

As leaders, we have our business family too. There are colleagues, team members and associates that we hired, trained, managed and mentored. Think about people we promoted or helped find a better position or supported as they went through a tough time personally or professionally. Or, recall those leaders who meant the most to us--who pushed us, led by example or quietly encouraged us at just the right time. When did we last take the time to reach out to that business family from our past?

Summer is reunion time. Think back to your past jobs and companies. You'll find people and friends you haven't seen in years. Surprise and delight them with a call or a note. Meet up for coffee or a meal. You may well discover that you made a powerful difference in someone's life... being God's leader!

ANE will host an “Inspired Leadership in 30” phone call:
Tuesday, June 16 at 7:30 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time)
Call in number: (712) 775-7031 Enter ID #: 251-410-597