One of the T4D readers sent this to me yesterday knowing I am big fan of John Miller’s wonderful book on personaly accountability “QBQ”.  At first glance some might think this is a politically motivated by John - but after reading it carefully I am of the opinion it is not and that the message and principles he espouses are well worth a review. 

So enjoy…..

I spoke this week in Washington, D.C. for one of the largest speakers’ bureaus in the world-a staff of about 80 people dedicated to selling speakers to corporations and associations all day long. While there, I was told, “This is our busy season!” So, as a speaker, I’m thinking, Really? April is a busy season for booking speakers? I’ve never noticed! When I verbalized my thought, I was quickly educated on what was meant by “busy season.” What topics are they frantically booking for events everywhere, you ask?

Anything to do with politics.

Ah, but of course. Everything has its season. And we surely are a fad-driven society and political speakers certainly would be in demand-at least till Tuesday, November 4, 2008. And then, it’ll be over. Thank heavens. Less pain for all of us living in a world where some “leaders” set the worst kind of example:

• I didn’t say what I meant!
• I didn’t mean what I said!
• She said this!
• He said that!
• I’m offended!
• I’m offended that you’re offended!
• Shame on you!
• Hypocrite!
• I’m sorry if my words that I didn’t really say or mean might possibly have hurt someone!

I know some of you will email me sharing your opinion on which party in our monopolistic, slightly dysfunctional two-party system is right or wrong. You’ll think I’m taking sides or lobbying for one candidate or another. Sure, I know who I’d vote for in November, but that’s not the point of this missive. What is the point? It’s this:

I want the American people to lead the leaders, because some of our leaders are lost.

And in reality, the people are already leading our great nation daily by working, managing, serving, selling, worshipping, parenting-making a difference. And politicians, our supposed leaders?

Blaming. Whining. Distorting. Posturing. Exaggerating. Spinning. Covering up. And making excuses.

Sometimes, when I’m not on my guard, I begin to fantasize about a world that could be. One where the “pols” practice QBQ! Yes, I know, QBQ! is for me and not for others, but I can dream, can’t I? Picturing a world where humility, integrity, and responsibility reign supreme is very exciting to me-and probably you, too.

But sadly, even though the demand for political speakers will fade, politicians will never go away. And I suspect, on some level, we need them. If for nothing else than to remind us how not to live. Human beings often learn best when we see what not to do, and I thank some of our leaders everyday for their clear lessons.

So I tune out the media, the experts, the snapshot polls, and TV talking heads-foregoing their amazing insights-and remember it’s still about me practicing an idea that is no fad: Personal accountability.

Personal accountability, an idea that works because it’s contrary to our world. It’s good to be a contrarian. To cut against the grain sharpens me, makes me more effective, gives me a valuable edge, and enables me to better contribute. I choose not to be a lemming following all the blamers and excuse-makers off the cliff. I will stand on a powerful, life-changing idea that is right and true. Essentially, I will be in the world and not of it. That’s when I am at my best. Society may be going one direction, but with QBQ! I empower myself to go another.

So for those of us who run large corporations, small businesses, schools and classrooms, churches, departments, teams, families, or just manage ourselves, let’s take this on as our new mission:

I will not bend to the winds of current culture. I will stand for PERSONAL ACCOUNTABILITY. I will demonstrate to my customers, my colleagues, my community, my family, and myself that I am a “No Excuses” leader.

What a great way to live life. What a terrific example to set for others. Maybe it’s time for The People to lead and for The Leaders to follow. Any objections?

Written by:

John G. Miller
Author of QBQ! and Flipping the Switch