Celebrating Twelve Extraordinary Women Who Shaped Me

Several things came together for this particular post.  First, when I completed my review of Linda Hill and Kent Lineback’s Being the Boss: The 3 Imperatives for Becoming a Great Leader on the first year anniversary of my job with Space Center Houston, I reflected on the many great bosses I’ve had over the course of my career.

Second, since the month of March is designated Women’s History Month, we celebrate the courageous women who have helped our Nation build a fairer, more just society. As this year’s Presidential proclamation puts it, “Throughout history, the vision and achievements of powerful women have strengthened our Nation and opened the doors of opportunity wider for all of us.  Though their stories too often go untold, all of us stand on the shoulders of these sung and unsung trailblazers.”

Third, I recently summarized John MacArthur’s Twelve Extraordinary Women.

So, when I considered offering some personal reflections this month, I can’t help but think of twelve extraordinary women who shaped me as a leader.

Click here to learn about the 12 Extraordinary Women Who Shaped Me

My One Word for 2024: Perspective

Have you taken Jon Gordon’s One Word Challenge?

Instead of creating endless goals and resolutions, choose One Word to be your driving force for the year. No goals. No wish lists. Just one word.

I’ve appreciated the focus of one word for each of the last six years.  As Gordon explains, “When you discover your One Word for the year, it gives you more clarity, passion and purpose for life.  The One Word exercise brings simplicity and focus. It cuts through the distractions and keeps us focused on what really matters.”

Here are my One Word choices—along with a corresponding Spiritual Growth focus—from each of the last six years:

  • 2023 = “Surrender” with a focus on Richard Foster’s Celebration of Discipline
  • 2022 = “Faith” with a focus on the Hall of Faith from Hebrews 11 –
  • 2021 = “Basic” with a focus on The Apostles’ Creed
  • 2020 = “Sheep” with a focus on Psalm 23
  • 2019 = “Wisdom” with a focus on Proverbs
  • 2018 = “Optimism” with a focus on The Beatitudes

This year, my One Word is “Perspective”. 

Click here to learn more about my One Word choice and focus for 2024