Page 48 - The EDGE Winter 2025
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commit to the art of listening to harness the collective   This quote captures a profound truth about the
          intelligence of their teams effectively.               relationship  between  passion,  fulfillment,  and
          -Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed.                        achievement, particularly in leadership. At its core,
                                                                 this statement highlights that genuine enthusiasm for
                                                                 one’s work is a critical driving force behind effective
                                                                 leadership and the pursuit of excellence. A great leader
                                                                 deeply invested in their mission exudes an infectious
                                                                 passion that resonates with their team, promoting a
                                                                 positive and motivated work environment. Leaders
                                                                 engaging in activities that resonate with their interests
                                                                 and  values  will  likely  invest  time  and  energy to
                                                                 excelling. Enjoyment in one’s work fosters a sense
                                                                 of motivation  that  transcends  barriers;  it ignites
                                                                 creativity  and  fuels  perseverance,  navigating  them
                                                                 through challenges with a positive mindset.
                                                                 Leaders who like and even love their jobs and are
          "A visionary and great human. Thank you Brian for      aligned  with  their  work, whether  it  be  the  values
          your leadership and inspiration. You will be missed."  they uphold, the goals they pursue, or the impact
          -Gregory Fine                                          they seek to create, are more likely to inspire their

                                                                 colleagues  and  invest  their  energy and  creativity
                                                                 wholeheartedly. This deep-rooted enjoyment propels
                                                                 leaders through challenges and setbacks and enables
                                                                 them to stay resilient and adaptable, characteristics
                                                                 vital  for navigating  the  complexities  of today’s
                                                                 rapidly changing landscape.
                                                                 Additionally, when leaders genuinely  like what
                                                                 they are doing, they cultivate a sense of authenticity
                                                                 and  purpose that  instills  trust  and  loyalty  in  their
                                                                 teams. Employees are more inclined to follow and
                                                                 contribute to a passionate leader, as it creates a shared
                                                                 vision and a collective sense of belonging, thereby
                                                                 enhancing overall productivity and team cohesion. In
                                                                 essence, a leader’s love for their work is a catalyst

          "Brian was a true leader and AASBO would not be        for success, as it drives personal achievement  and
          the organization  it is today without his leadership.   galvanizes others towards a common goal, ultimately
          We  worked together  and  we laughed  together.  We    leading to a thriving organizational culture. Do you
          were part of the AASBO family. He will be missed."     like your job? This quote will serve as a reminder that
                                                                 finding joy in one’s leadership journey is not merely
          -Dr. Chuck Essigs, AASBO
                                                                 a personal benefit; it is an indispensable ingredient
                                                                 for cultivating an engaged, empowered, and highly
           Ref lections on Leadership                            successful team.
                                                                 -Brian L. Mee, SFO, RSBA, M.Ed.
          August 5, 2024
          "You never achieve success unless you like what you are
          doing." - Dale Carnegie





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