Principles Over Preferences/Rashea@LLO2 Academy

When giving advice or counsel we must caution that it is not based on our own personal preferences on how we personally feel about certain things.

To coach your own personal preferences on someone is not good leadership or counsel at all. The goal is not to duplicate or make a prototype of yourself per say but to empower others through wise principles to become their best self.

The approach to helping to guide the lives and leadership of others is, "What principles for sound living can I refer to and communicate that anyone in any given circumstances can utilize and prosper from and succeed by putting them to use? I was taught early on in my adult years... "When counseling people never give your opinion but rather principles." Opinions can mislead others into error and frustration, but sound principles will lead others out of error and unfortunate situations.

The question every leader must ask themselves when giving advice is... "Is this my own personal preferences or are these sound principles? Opinions and preferences are based on personal experiences (good or bad), emotions and personality types (how people are wired by inner default). Stay clear of opinions when advising others. 

Sound principles are based upon infallible laws that have worked down through time no matter who utilizes it. It's like the law of photosynthesis. You plant seeds in the ground in the proper climate, you water them, and with the proper amount of sunlight it will naturally grow.

So the question then is, are you growing your preferences or sound priniciples? Do not limit yourself to preferences. They will stunt your growth and results. Be willing to say, "No thanks" to personal preferences, especially when you have goals and important tasks to accomplish. 

Sound priniciples will cause growth and increase your productivity and results. You may have to make adjustments from time to time. That's normal and expected, but stick to the principles.

When receiving counsel, be willing to speak up. "Right now I do not need your opinion or personal preferences but rather sound principles." It may shock some people who are keen on giving their own opinions and personal preferences, but that's okay. 

You never stop doing what is working for you just because someone else's preferences are different than your own. That is why we call it individuality. Your goal is to see productivity and good results. And more times than not... opinions and personal preferences will not get you there. 

Be open about your thoughts. Be direct with what you are needing in the moment. Good leaders will understand your requests and help navigate you to prosperity, good success and good results with solid principles with understanding👍🏾💯

Rashea@LLO2