GLS Inspires Local Leaders

What a privilege it is to come out of a seminar inspired, rejuvenated and full of ideas and steps to make improvements that will have a positive impact in one's life. Such was the experience of more than a dozen participants from several Tehachapi organizations who attended the Global Leadership Summit (GLS) at the Desert Vineyard Church in Lancaster, California, Aug. 11-12, 2016. Hosted every year from its campus in Barrington, Illinois, the twoday seminar is able to attract more than 300,000 people from over 125 countries by simulcasting LIVE to satellite campuses throughout the country (and recorded for broadcast to other time zones).

Over the two days, the participants were exposed to talks and interviews with leaders of business, pastors and inspiring coaches from various backgrounds. They also watched short recordings of individuals around the world who had brought to life the messages of earlier summits to make improvements in their own small sphere of influence. During the breaks, we found ourselves talking about the things we were hearing and how they could be applied in our own lives. Hearing the word "wow," was common, as well as the comment, "I really got a lot from that."

Among the speakers were Patrick Lencioni, whose parables provide valuable life lessons to people from all walks of life (although they are typically thought of as being directed towards businesspeople) and Christian "communicator" T.D. Jakes (whose sphere of influence has extended into movie making, most recently with "Miracles From Heaven").

When asked about what session made the most impression, participants found it difficult to decide on just one. But here are some highlights:

"It's the leader's job to keep their passion bucket full." – Bill Hybels

"If it's lonely at the top, you're doing leadership wrong." – Dr. Henry Cloud

"If you can accomplish your dream on your own, your dream is too small." – T.D. Jakes

"Most people don't lead their life; they accept their life." – John Maxwell

"Everything worthwhile is uphill, but many people have uphill hopes, but downhill habits." – John Maxwell

"Ideal team players are humble, hungry and smart." – Patrick Lencioni

These few nuggets can give just a small idea of the depth of the knowledge and inspiration that was shared. One of the Tehachapi attendees mentioned that she didn't think of herself as a leader until she attended this conference. The takeaways she received not only affirmed her as a leader, but empowered her to do even more in her areas of responsibility. That response alone spoke volumes of the value of the conference.

So why the desire to share with a broader audience? One of the local Tehachapi churches would like to become a satellite site for next year's GLS. We would like to encourage more individuals from local churches, businesses and organizations to join us for next year's summit and feel offering a local venue will assist in that. If you are interested in participating in next year's summit, please email [email protected]. We will provide information as it becomes available. No matter what your area of influence, you will find the summit very worthwhile.