Reflections on Module 3 Concepts- GRAD 702

Of the 4-lens perspectives the strategic lens is the viewpoint I prefer the most. I don’t think that least prefer any of the remaining three. Depending on the situation, I find myself using competitive, systems and collaborative perspectives as well. I find it encouraging to be a strategic lens thinker going into the next change wave. Being not only open, but inviting to change will be helpful. However, future changes could favor another lens in its frame of reference.

I found the competency slot result project was more difficult then I thought. Ranking oneself is never easy, but addressing weakness is necessary part of life. I found my strengths to be most indicative to the professional position I am now in.

In fundraising emotional intelligence is important. I often find myself in one on one meetings with donors. Each meeting requires me to balance the personal and business side of the conversation. Picking up social clues and non-verbal communication are important for me to make each donor feel comfortable. Money can be a difficult issue and being able to work with each individual in a different way is important.

Last week a large part of my work time was spent doing a SWAT analysis of a specific program I am responsible for. I found the information and readings on strengths, weakness, opportunities and threats quite useful. Having this background perspective helped me consider our program in new ways and increase the team’s creativity.

I think I could use Covey’s third alternative in my personal life more. I was working with my family on a decision and if we had taken a step back and really understood each other I believe we could have come up with a really great solution.

GRAD 702 – Reflections on Module 2 Concepts

Honestly, I was surprised by my HBDI results. My guess was that I would score high in the B and D quadrants, which I did. However, I was surprised to see my results all so evenly matched. Although thankful to have preference in each quadrant, it does seem a little boring to be not be heavily weighted in one direction.

Between all four quadrants my deviation between quadrants was no greater then 14. I am a "1-1-1-1". Now that I know my results I will try to better appreciate my gifts in each quadrant. Since my scores were so evenly matched, it gives me a bit more confidence when thinking in each quadrant.

When I leave this world I hope to have made a positive impact on those in my life. If each person can learn from one another and carry that into the next generation, I consider that a positive impact.


I am currently the coordinator for an annual event called Taste the Future, a fundraising effort that brings together chefs from the area for a night of culinary deliciousness. Although the event has mostly been orchestrated many years back, every year new and creative ideas are thrown out. It's great to be involved with project that has been great for many, many years and the planning committee is still changing things and adding new twists and ideas every year. This event and the spirted planning team keep me positive all year long!

I typically deal with conflict head on. I do not see conflict as a negative. In fact, I often encourage it. Without disagreement I think a lot of great ideas and opportunities can be passed by. I am often discouraged by those who would rather not deal with a situation that involves conflict.

I like the change wave exercise. I think it is great to always be thinking of the professional environment to come. Being relatively young I am aware of opportunities the future holds. I think being able to ride that next wave of change involves understanding the changes first. Change is often difficult enough without understanding the big picture surrounding the change.


When I first picked up the 8th Habit I skimmed it, and immediately went to chapter 8. I agree with Covey's argument that trust is a huge factor in relationships, life and business. Time and again this have been reinforced in business situations. To me it's not the only factor, but the beginning factor in all (successful) human relationships.

Grad 702- Reflections on Module 1 Concepts

-My professional effectiveness is at a medium high level. I have been in my current position for about a year now and I am beginning to institute my own plans. I am now able to do things in the way that works best for me. In the past, I had been organizing my work the way it "had always been done", but I am beginning to change that. I find this really exciting and I am working to take my effectiveness to a higher level!

-I enjoyed reading The Whole Brain Business Book. I found the information to be especially of value when working with others. I believe it is important to understand and embrace different ways of thinking and doing things. I am eagerly awaiting my HBDI results to officially find out where my thinking falls.

-Of Covey's four roles of leadership, I most identify with the empowering role. I believe that many people can do more than what they think they can. I enjoy helping others discover talent they never knew they had. To me this is one of the greatest advantages to being a leader. Also, in most work situations empowering others brings about the best end result.

Assignment 3.4

A.
I am most comfortable in the 4th wave of change. I am always looking toward the next idea, and how to use everything at my disposal to accomplish things in a better way. I think in a change wave mode because I see the whole picture of things. For better of worse, when you do not get bogged down on details, risk and change are less scary.

In most work situations, the people I am surrounded with are not in a 4th wave mentality. I do believe that these folks can benefit by keeping a realistic view on the work at hand.