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September 1, 2000

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Bishop's Corner

Bringing Out The Best In People

By Bishop Cornelius L. Henderson

Bishop Cornelius L. HendersonI have been deeply touched by a profound book written by Alan Loy McGinnis titled, "Bringing Out The Best In People." I cannot believe that anyone who is a part of the body of Christ would seek to bring out the worst in people. Unfortunately, there are some who seem to major in making a mess or promoting the same.

This work by McGinnis is "must reading" for the laity and clergy of the Florida United Methodist Conference. It is divided into 14 chapters. Early in this work he lists "Twelve Rules For Bringing Out The Best In People." For those who have read this helpful, provocative book, this is a simple review. For those who have not read it, please allow me as your chief Episcopal servant to list these rules.

  1. Expect the best from the people you lead.
  2. Make a thorough study of the other person’s needs.
  3. Establish high standards for excellence.
  4. Create an environment where failure is not fatal.
  5. If you are going anywhere near where you want to go, climb on the other person’s bandwagon.
  6. Employ models to encourage success.
  7. Recognize and applaud achievement.
  8. Employ a mixture of positive and negative reinforcement.
  9. Appeal sparingly to the competitive edge.
  10. Place a premium on collaboration.
  11. Build into the group an allowance for storms.
  12. Take steps to keep your own motivation high.

In the first chapter Mr. McGinnis makes a reference to the great former football coach of the Green Bay Packers, Mr. Vince Lombardi. During his nine-year stint at Green Bay, the Packers had nine winning seasons. His team defeated its opponents 75 percent of the time and captured five NFL championships, including two Super Bowls! What was his secret? The experts report that it was his ability to motivate his players. They report that Coach Lombardi could get an extra 10 percent out of his players. The number-one motivator of the Church is Jesus Christ. He is our super model as we carry out his command to go and make disciples.


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