The challenge with most days is that we only choose to be 'what' that day tells us to be. So, today is THANKSGIVING. It is a reminder to be thankful for all of the blessings that we have. But a day like today can become more about the food and the festivities instead of the celebrating the source of all those blessings.
The Bible says, "Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow" (James 1:17). I guess you could say, if it's good it's God, if it's bad it's the devil (David Crank). The source of everything good in our lives is always God. It's bigger than us. It's more than our talents. It's greater than our gifts. It's a reason to simply be grateful.
The challenge is today is not just Thanksgiving Day. It's also the Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day, National Day of Mourning, D.B. Cooper Day, National Oliver Day, National Family Health History Day, and National Sardines Day. But there is also the Unthanksgiving Day. In fact, you can look, there are multiple things every day. It's a little frustrating.
But there is an important lesson for leadership we have to learn ...
DON'T DILUTE YOUR LEADERSHIP WITH MULTIPLE FOCUSES.
Let's just let today be a day to be thankful. Yes, there are things that always need to be better, but don't water-down your gratefulness with other things. "STOP, calibrate, and listen" and just be grateful.
Too many leaders try and do everything. It is impossible. Find your focus. Fix your focus. Stay faithful to your focus. Don't dilute your calling with a full, crowded calendar. Refuse to become the jack-of-all-trades and the master of none. Lock in to your calling and leadership. There will be things that always need to be improved, but today just pause and give thanks to God for all the blessings He has given to your life.
Real leadership requires focus. If you want to be everything God has designed you to be then you will just need to focus on that. Drill down into your mission. What has God called you to do? If you are doing that, be grateful. Don't focus on the results - focus on your response. As you remain faithful to God's calling and simply stay in your lane it will be easier to be grateful.
So, on this Thanksgiving, take time to just say THANK YOU. First, thank God for every good gift He has given you. Second, thank your family. Third, thank your friends. Finally, thank your staff/team. Don't dilute a day, your calling, or your focus.
Happy Thanksgiving, y'all. Grateful today, and everyday.