Taking time to show appreciation, say a kind word or right a brief note can have a lasting impact.
Too often we discredit a simple gesture thinking that it lacks the flair or the ability to be quoted on social media when something simple may be the most impactful and long lasting.
Several years ago I listened to Iowa State Athletic Director Jamie Pollard share the story of a life changing health scare he had and how it helped to change his perspective on life. It was very real and showed the kind of man and leader that he is.
Later that day I decided to send him an email thanking him for speaking to our group and sharing his story. He’s a busy man leading a Power 5 University and likely wouldn’t see it or would just skim through it and move on to something much more important. How wrong I was.
A few days later he sent me a hand written note and a leadership book that he had read in the mail. The leader with 1,000 things to do took time to say Thank You and encourage someone he had never met or would even recognize passing on the street.
I keep that note as a bookmark in every book that I am reading to help remind me of two things.
1) It is impactful to take time to encourage someone with a kind word or gesture, even if you may never cross paths.
2) Words, rather spoken or written, can have an impact long after they are shared.
Use your words wisely and as a way to build others up. They are more powerful than we may ever know.
Meet Todd Gordon, a seasoned educator, coach, and activities administrator who dedicated an impressive 37 years to shaping the lives of students within the realm of education. His career has taken him on a remarkable journey through nine different school districts, ranging from the intimate setting of a small school to the dynamic landscape of a large, multi-high school urban district – truly everything in between.
In 2022, Todd embarked on a new chapter, retiring from his illustrious career in education. However, retirement did not signal an end to his passion for making a positive impact in the realm of sports and activities. Todd joined BOUND, a leading sports software company, where he continues to contribute his wealth of experience and knowledge to support activity administrators and coaches.
Beyond the professional arena, Todd’s personal life is a testament to dedication and enduring love. Married to his wife, Deb, for an impressive 40 years, they have navigated life’s journey together. Their family has grown to include three married children, each on their unique paths, and six delightful grandchildren who bring joy and laughter to their lives.
Todd authored and published his first book, “The Power of One. One Word Leadership”, in 2022.
His newest project is the “The Pursuit”, and it starts with new writings on a new page on this website. Todd delves into the essence of your daily pursuit of excellence, offering insights on growth, resilience, and the power of redemption. By weaving daily Scripture insights into our exploration, we bridge the timeless with the contemporary, inviting you to reflect on leadership principles grounded in spiritual wisdom.
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Made For This Moment 