Final Reflection

Jenny Gordon

12/5/11

Final Reflection

            This semester I have learned a lot about leadership and myself.  I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to serve as an Executive Director in the Clubs area in BYUSA.  I know that the skills and life lessons I learn here will stay with me throughout my entire life.  By working in the Clubs area I was able to work with my coordinator, Vice President, my fellow Executive Directors, Program Directors, committee members, and various club presidents.  Through office hours, the student development class, and working closely with those around me I was able to learn a lot about divine-centered leadership, focusing on results, and personal capabilities.

            Before serving in BYUSA, I had never heard the term divine-centered leadership; I had only heard of servant leadership before.  Divine-centered leadership is an extremely important concept and became the focus of the clubs area.  In the clubs area we are leaders of leaders.  Through this role we are able to serve others so they may act.  For example, we serve the club presidents so they can run their club more effectively and serve their members.  We provide resources for the presidents to put on their meetings and activities.

            Lastly, part of divine-centered leadership is sharing an inspired vision.  In the clubs area we have a vision, which is the driving force behind all of our actions.  It reads, “The BYUSA Clubs Area strives to serve the Lord and serve those around us at all times. We are advocates of the BYU student service association in reaching out to students in need, and in creating a sense of belonging across campus. We lead with Charity in our hearts, and guide student leaders in their pursuit to involve those around them." This vision truly helped me throughout this semester by constantly reminding me what the purpose of all my decisions should reflect. 

            This past semester I have had a lot of projects that I have been working on, all of which had deadlines.  It was important for me to focus on the results of the projects so I could be efficient and still produce high quality products.  I worked on t-shirts, a commercial, care week, and club banners and logos this semester.  With all of these projects going on it was important for me to set deadlines for things to get done. 

            It was difficult to figure out a time that worked for me, the club president, and the designers at Campus Life Design to all meet to discuss the club’s banner and logo design.  At the beginning of the semester it was extremely difficult but then I decided to just email the designers to see what worked for them and the president and it was easier to find a common time.  Next semester I hope to find out who needs a banner at the beginning of the semester so there is more time to meet and discuss their design.  I will do this by having all of the Executive Directors talk to their presidents during the first two weeks of the semester and find out when the last time they received a banner. 

            From working with different designers and vendors for the t-shirts, banners, and the commercial, I learned that it was important to be very clear on what was expected for the final product.  For the commercial there had to be a few changes towards the end of the product because I was not clear enough with the editor. 

            At the beginning of the semester it was difficult for me to work on Care Week because I did not have a vision for it, because of this the planning was a little behind schedule.  There were some issues with my Program Director, which I avoided to confront.  This created unnecessary stress that could have been solved if I had spoken with my Program Director sooner. This transitions to my next topic of personal capabilities.

            For my 360 project, I focused on building relationships.  After speaking to Adrian, I realized that I need to work on accepting conflict because it can be a healthy thing.  I used to avoid conflict like the plague but now I am accepting it and standing up for my own opinions.  I am not afraid to voice what I think and explain how I am feeling now.  Devin, Joel, Haley, Steven, Ashley, Shelby, Laura, and Ryan have all noticed a big difference in this.  Devin pointed out that I am not as timid as I was at the beginning of the year. 

            With my Program Directors I hope to be more upfront about what I expect from them and if they are not following through on commitments then it is important that I address my concerns.  I know that by doing this, things will be able to get done more efficiently.  It is important that I continue to build a strong enough relationship with them that we are able to have the difficult, but necessary, conversations.

            Next semester, I hope to be a more effective leader by taking what I have learned this semester into account.  I want to continue to be a divine-centered leader by keeping the spirit of charity in mind as I serve and work with the club presidents.  I also hope to focus on the end results of my projects and share my vision with my program directors and committee members. By doing this they will be able to be inspired and understand what is expected.  Additionally, I hope to build strong relationships with all of those that I work with so I am not afraid to have healthy conflict with them.  It is important that I express my opinion while taking theirs into consideration.  I have learned so much this semester and I am excited to expand my learning and leadership knowledge this next semester in BYUSA. I know that this experience will help me throughout my entire life and it is something that I will cherish forever. 

Discovery Statements

1. That change frustrated me because I can't write well with my left hand. I had to really focus in order to write the letters down.  It took a lot more thought to use my left hand.
2. It was a lot harder to not use my sight when drawing the picture. I felt unsure of myself while previously I felt more frustrated.
3. I felt uncomfortable and nervous I was going to run into something. I had to rely on the person behind me to help guide me and I had to guide the person in front of me.

I believe that drawing the picture without using our eyes was most difficult because we weren't able to see the vision or the direction that we were headed. It is important that when leading change we have a clear vision in mind that we can share with our team. Additionally, it is important to embrace change and figure out new ways to accomplish something, who knows it could be a better way to do something.

Leading Change

An excellent example of someone leading change effectively was actually this year.  Devin wanted some changes made to the clubs area and he was effective at leading those changes. For example, Joel Meehan came onto the team late but Devin helped him to reorganize the UCC. Also, Devin wanted more advertising done this year than last year so he helped lead me in this transition.  Devin is excellent at leading change because he has such a strong vision for what he wants.  Devin is passionate in sharing his vision that he inspires others to want to make a change as well. Additionally, Devin trained Joel for a long time to help him understand the chartering process for the clubs and then they started to reorganize the UCC.

Challenges with teamwork and collaboration

Some challenges in teamwork and collaboration are communication, reliability, and differences of opinions. If there is not good communication within the team, not a lot can be accomplished. Additionally, it is through communication that conflict can be resolved and people can share their ideas.  But if communication is not there, issues can linger and cause tension within the team.
Lack of reliability can also be an issue in teamwork.  If you are constantly dropping the ball and not following through on commitments, your team will not trust you with future tasks.  This can cause tension and will weaken the bond between you and your teammates.
Not accepting others opinions can cause an issue within teams as well. It is important that we stand  up for opinions but also listen to others.  Collaboration in a team is important.

Successful Teamwork and Collaboration

An example of successful teamwork and collaboration that I have seen was in high school when I was on a Marketing Plan team for FFA.  On this team we had to work very closely with one another in order to research our product, write our proposal, and create a presentation.  We all had different schedules and personalities so at times it was difficult to get together and work on our project.  Eventually our teacher helped inspire us to work harder and closer together.  We realized that if we communicated with one another better, we could accomplish more.
Each of us had our own individual sections in the presentation that we had to master. We practiced for hours and hours each week preparing for the county, state, and national competitions.
Through this project we became so close that we knew each others parts in the presentation and we could help each other if someone stumbled on an answer.  For example, at the national competition we were able to add on to each others answers to show the judges how much we actually knew.

Creative ways to communicate

A couple of creative ways to communicate a new idea to my team include showing a rough sketch of what the finalized plan should look like, playing a video that correlates to what you are talking about, and just being excited and passionate about the idea. By doing these things, your team can see how excited and serious you are about making your idea come to life.

Agreement before moving forward

To make sure that the team is in agreement before moving forward it is important to hold consistent meetings and to have strong communication.  It is important to make decisions as a team instead of just making them individually. This way you can get input and maybe will get an even better idea. At meetings make sure you have everyone report on what they are working on and then put a decision on the table about various ideas. Make sure to have a discussion about the decision to receive input. I make sure that I speak with each team member before making a final decision.

Build integrity and trust

There are many things that I can do to build integrity and trust with my team. An important thing is to always be reliable and follow through on assignments.  By following through and always doing the things that you say you will, your team will trust you and rely on you.  Additionally, doing this will also build up your integrity because you will stick to your word.  I know that when people are flaky and don't follow through on things that I have asked them to do, I am not as trusting with them. I find it hard to ask them to do things because I think that it will not happen.
Being honest with my team will also help to build trust and respect with them. I know that when people are not afraid to be honest with me, they trust me enough to share the truth.  Honesty is a sign of trust because it shows that you are willing to share the complete truth with them.

Personal strengths in getting resullts

My personal strengths in getting results on projects or problems are having a clear vision and inspiring others.  When I putting together a team, I always make sure that there is a clear, descriptive vision so they know what we are trying to accomplish. I know that when I am on a team that has no direction there is not a drive to do anything, it feels meaningless. I want every member of my team to know that what we are doing is important and that because of them things are possible.
Inspiring other to accomplish and be more will help them to strive to accomplish the vision. I know that when someone feels that they are important they will want to do more and help more. It is important to let people know that you recognize everything that they have done.

Behaviors for getting results

The most important behaviors for getting results with a project or problem are having a clear vision of desired results, anticipating problems, creating a high-performance team, and is being quick to act.  With all of these behaviors, a leader will be able to work with their team in achieving results.
Having a clear vision of desired results will help ensure that every choice you make is towards a common goal. If you know what you want to accomplish, it is easier to make sure you accomplish your goal.  For example, here in BYUSA we have a vision which every area in BYUSA strives to accomplish.  Everything that we do should be help to accomplish the vision.  In the clubs area we made an area vision that helps us focus on what we are trying to accomplish in our roles as executive directors.  The main focus of our vision is charity.  Charity is behind every choice that we make in the clubs area as we put on programs and help club presidents.
By anticipating problems, leaders are able to have back up plans that will enable them to still accomplish their ultimate goal.  It is important to do some environmental scanning so you can think of potential problems that you may face on your way to achieve your desired results. By looking at potential problems, you can prepare to overcome them.  By being prepared, it is easier to not get stressed out when something wrong happens.
Creating a high-performance team is one of the most important things in achieving results. With a strong team, you will be able to accomplish more than with just yourself. A team will bring together different views and opinions that will be powerful enough to accomplish more. Additionally, it is vital to have a high-performance team where everyone is working hard towards a common goal.  If your team has one person that is not on the same page, it can bring the entire team down.
Being quick to act is another important quality to have to accomplish results. When a problem arises it is important to act quickly so the problem does not linger. Being decisive is something that will help tasks to be accomplished more efficiently.

Innovation

Innovation applies to my specific responsibilities since I am over advertising for BYUSA Clubs. In order to come up with new ways to advertise I must be innovated.  I need to constantly be looking up and researching new effective ways of advertising so I can help clubs get their name out.  The club presidents come to me to help them design a banner, logo, and advertisements for their events or their club in general. In order to help them effectively I need to know what the current trends are and what works and doesn't work.  The clubs have a specific target market so it is important that I take that into account when helping them advertise.  Additionally, I promote the clubs area in general and it is important that I do new things constantly to make more and more people aware.  Currently, I am working on a commercial to promote BYUSA clubs.  We are spotlighting A Capella, Y Juggle, and Rebel Swords Fencing Club.  The main point of the commercial is to show that there is a place for everyone on campus.

Through innovation I will be able to advertise more effectively and reach more people.  I hope to constantly be improving and I know that if I work on innovation I will be able to become a better advertising consultant for the clubs.

Solves Problems and Analyzes Issues

One time when I had to apply skills from the solves problems and analyzes issues competency was when I received this position as an executive director.  My position entails two programs, advertising for all of the BYUSA sponsored clubs and for the general BYUSA Clubs area in general.  Second, Care Week. In the past there wasn't as much advertising going on and I wanted to change that.  This year I took the initiative to reach out to club presidents to help them advertise their club by creating banners, logos, and advertisements. So far I have worked with about ten clubs to help them generate logos, banners, and advertising their events. I have had to work with Campus Life Design and Communications for numerous projects and have had some bumps along the way.  But after analyzing the issues, we were able to function together better.  For example, Karen had no idea what was going on in the clubs area.  So we set up a time to meet each week and update each other on our current projects.  Also, trying to schedule a time for myself, the club president, and a designer to meet was difficult. I found that it was easier to just email Campus Life Design than try and set it up in person.

Technical/Professional Expertise leadership competency in action

I have seen the technical/professional expertise leadership competency in action in my area.  In the Clubs area, Joel is over the United Clubs Council which assists people to start new clubs.  Joel has done an excellent job at creating a more efficient United Clubs Council that helps clubs to get started quicker.  So far Joel has had five clubs chartered this semester which is pretty high compared to past semesters. Joel has set up a great committee to be over president trainings, chartering new clubs, and to build strong relationships with the club presidents through socials.

What I learned

I really enjoyed this lesson and felt that it was applicable to what I needed to at this moment in time.  I specifically liked the section where we watched the Mormon Message by President Uchtdorf.  He asked the question, which map are you using in life? And then went on to share the story of the ugly duckling. The underlying message was to discover who you really are and see your true reflection. It was expressed that character is being divine and seeing that we are all glorious and eternal.  I liked the quote "it is never too late to be what you might have become", it is never too late to start fresh and change your life in a positive way.  I know that it is important to constantly try and improve.

There were six steps shared to develop character.  First, focus on yourself.  It is important to not let other people determine how you will behave.  We must find who we truly are and stick to our character.  Second, take responsibility.  We discussed the example of Brandon Davies and how he truly expressed true character by owning up to his actions.  Third, challenge your stories.  Ask yourself why you believe the things that you do.  Fourth, take action. Make sure your actions display your character.  Fifth, speak up. Say what you have to say and don't give in to other's opinions that go against yours. This  is something that I need to work on. And finally, let go.  It is important to give up the pretenses and try to be someone that you are.

Character: Center Pole

Character is the center pole of the leadership tent for many reasons. Our character defines who we are, how we act, and how we lead. Character is a commitment to ethics, integrity, honor, honesty, values, and morals.  Having character means being divine and being true to who you really are.  Having character allows the other poles of the leadership tent to be stronger.

Someone that has demonstrated character is my dad.  He is truly the greatest example to me and I always look to follow his example.  My dad has shown great character by always displaying integrity, honesty and stick to his values.  His decision to come back to the Church is the reason that I am here at BYU today.  By not allowing the outside pressures determine his decisions, my dad was able to accept Christ into his life.  I am so blessed that my dad has continued to be an example of integrity throughout my life.

too much attention to others?

Some argue that servant leadership won't help an individual advance in their career since they spend too much attention on others.  I would argue this statement since I believe servant leadership allows leaders to develop into the best they can be.  It is through servant leadership that they are able to show their love for those around them that they are leading.  Through servant leadership businesses are able to perform as the management is able to work well together.  It is by serving others that we are able to feel the pure love of Christ.  When serving other people I know that I am the happiest... not when I am being selfish and just thinking about myself.

Servant Leadership Model

The servant leadership model we discussed in class dealt mainly with our purpose for leading and how we lead.  The driving force behind leadership should be service.  Serving those around us should be our primary goal as we lead.  By being a servant leader you always put others first, aren't selfish, and are serving for the right reasons.  Being a leader isn't just something to put on a resume, it should be done out of the love of others.  One quote that I really like was that people should look to join a cause not to get a paycheck.  It's important to not just be concerned with what people think of you, but more importantly what others think of themselves.

Someone Who Exemplifies Servant Leadership

My high school leadership advisor truly was an example of servant leadership.  In fact, he is the first person to introduce this concept to me.  He always stressed the importance of being a servant leader and was able to inspire us to achieve this style of leadership by being an example.  He was always the first one to arrive and the last one to leave at every event or meeting we had.  Additionally, he always looked out for the needs of others. For example, when food was being served at an event he would let everyone else get food before him.
These small simple acts truly built up and made his character.

Sacrifice

There are many things that we sacrifice as leaders.  One example of a time when I had to sacrifice something was last Sunday.  For my church calling, I am serving as the Relief Society secretary.  This calling calls for great sacrifice.  Last Sunday we had a meeting to set up visiting teaching which lasted three hours.  That day I had wanted to take a nap, make Sunday dinner, and just relax.  But, as a leader I had to sacrifice my time for the well being of the other girls.
I began to get frustrated with the length of the meeting but after humbling myself I realized that this sacrifice would benefit the sisters in my ward greatly.  At this meeting the spirit was so strong as we received revelations of which sisters should teach who. Through this sacrifice I was able to grow a deeper love for the sisters in the relief society and I began to know them on a more personal level.

Challenging Unrighteousness

Integrity is one of the main bases of leadership.  It is vital that leaders stand up for what they believe to be right and wrong.  Leaders are able to grow and develop as they challenge unrighteousness.  The world is becoming more acceptable of unrighteousness and it is up to the leaders of today to withstand it.  By standing up for what you believe to be right, you are able to stand up for it again in the future.
Additionally, by not holding back against unrighteousness you are able to share your opinion with others.  Those around you will see that they can also decide to stay on the path of righteousness.  By giving up those unrighteous acts and things around  us, we are able to grow as leaders.
I can use this question to improve as a leader by sticking to my values and honoring my standards.  If I am willing to stand up against unrighteousness I will be able to become a more consistent leader and will not have to question my values.  I will be able to stand firm in what I believe in and will not be tempted by others to lower my standards.  This is important as a leader, if a leader falls, their followers will fall even quicker.

Motive

Serving others and helping people are the main reasons why I started serving in BYUSA.  I got involved in BYUSA the first semester of my freshman year.  When first coming to BYU I felt that I wasn't helping anyone but myself.  I was only focused on my classes, my social life, and my life.  I had the need to help those around me.  I wanted to  get involved somehow in the university so I found BYUSA.
When serving others I am truly happy and I love seeing those around me happy as well.  Our whole purpose here on earth is to become more like Christ.  Christ was the perfect example of service.  He served with love behind every action he made.
Seeing other people's passions in the Clubs Area is such an awesome experience. I love getting to help club presidents make their dreams a reality.  Each club president is passionate about their niche and as an Executive Director I get to help them with all of their needs.  I love all of those that I serve, it is through this motive of love that I find the time to accomplish everything that I need to each day.

Reflection

Reflection

            This summer I have learned a lot about what it means to be a divine centered leader, how to work in a team and manage time, and the meaning behind the BYUSA vision.  The lessons I have learned this summer from class, office hours, and my team will help me not only this Fall and Winter, but will help me throughout my entire life.  A unifying theme between these three items is serving with love in your heart.  This summer I believe the most important thing I learned is to have love be the driving force in every decision you make. 

            I had never heard of the term divine centered leader before taking the BYUSA class.  Brittney and Devin both touched on the subject in their lessons and I feel that it is important for all of us to be divine centered leaders not only in BYUSA, but in other areas of our lives as well.  I was involved in leadership in high school but I love being involved here at BYU because we are able to discuss gospel principles. Being a divine centered leader is striving to be more and more like Christ every day.  As a divine centered leader your motive should be what God would have me do.  Christ was the perfect example, the perfect leader. 

            Christ’s main motive was love, it was the drive behind every decision he made.  Christ truly got to know the hearts of those around him and that allowed him to be the most charitable person ever.  By striving to be more like Christ, we are drawn to the Lord to ask him for assistance and guidance in our everyday lives.  This summer we have prayed before every meeting, stewardship, meal, and event.  It was such a difference compared to other organization because we were able to draw the spirit towards us all the time. 

            Michael Mccleave said that “the more leaders desire, seek, know, and do the Lord’s will, the more divinely centered they become”.  I believe this to be true.  This summer I learned to draw closer to the lord and I am making it a goal to read my scriptures, write in my journal, and to pray daily.  By doing this I know that I will be able to feel the spirit more and I can have the Lord help guide me in my everyday decisions. Additionally, in divine centered leadership it is important to hold yourself accountable for your choices and to accept personal responsibility.  It’s my responsibility to commit myself to become more like Christ. 

            Being a divine centered leader means that I must be able to manage my own life.  I learned this summer that I have a lot to work on.  I need to become more organized and use my time wisely.  It is important that I start setting S.M.A.R.T goals that I will be able to measure and reflect upon.  It is said that goals are dreams in writing.  I know that I need to make sure to write down goals in order to make my dreams for this year to come true.

            Coming into BYUSA I didn’t really know anybody, I knew a few people’s names but I didn’t know anything about them.  I was excited to meet my Clubs team, but nervous at the same time.  What if we didn’t get along?  What if they didn’t like me?  I had a lot of doubts but after meeting and getting to know each other I know that we are supposed to work together.  Our team was able to grow really close over such a short period of time and I am truly grateful for Haley, Devin, and Steven.  I feel that we have grown together as a team and are able to trust each other’s opinions while being professional when need be, but always friends.  Elder Maxwell said that Paul was a “great follower, and therefore, a great leader”.  This summer I have learned there are times to follow others and a time to lead.  I know that my opinion and vision is not the best there is and it is important I follow others. 

            Another lesson I learned was the importance of managing time.  There is going to be times during the semester where I feel overwhelmed with school, work, BYUSA, my church calling, my social life, and family life.  In order to avoid this stress, I will need to manage my time wisely.  Adrian showed us an effective tool to manage our time.  He stressed the importance of keeping a calendar and writing everything down that you have to do.  But the first thing he told us to do was to prioritize.  I need to keep in mind that I am a student first and a leader second.  My studies, family, and the gospel need to come before BYUSA. 

            “Never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved”. Devin quoted this statement by President Monson and it has become one of my favorites.  Sometimes we get so caught up in the problem or issue in front of us that we overlook the people that we are working with.  Christ always paid attention to “the one” and it is vital that we do the same.  It’s easy to just try and solve a dilemma before finding out what is wrong with someone that you are serving with, but we cannot do that.  Everyone is important and their feelings matter more than solving an issue.  In the book A More Excellent Way, Maxwell quotes C.S. Lewis and states that “there are no ordinary people”.  Everyone is special in their own way and will influence our lives whether we recognize it at the time or not.   

            Through reading A More Excellent Way, and having many discussions on it, I have realized the importance of love in leadership.  Maxwell states that “leadership is love in action”.  The decisions and actions we make displays our love for those that we are serving.  “No leader can be fully effective without love,” Maxwell also states.  Love is the driving force between our choices and we can truly serve those around us to the best of our ability with love. 

            After working in the office I have seen how everyone around me truly loves those that they are serving.  It is seen through their words, attitude, and decisions.  There is just a positive vibe in the office that I feel every time I walk through the doors.  I know this is because we are all striving to build up a Zion like community here at Brigham Young University.  If we do not love the ones that we are serving, then it is not charity but just work.  I know that if we love those around us and have a positive attitude while serving, we will be able to make a difference on campus. 

            “Where there is no vision, the people perish” Proverbs 29:18.  Coming into BYUSA I noticed the emphasis placed on the vision, I now understand why it is referred to so often.  Without a vision there is not a common goal for the association to strives towards.  The BYUSA vision allows for all volunteers in the office to work towards accomplishing a common goal.  Each and every decision we make in BYUSA should correspond to the vision.  I know that it is important to make sure all activities we plan within our area is going to help make the vision come true. When people ask about BYUSA I now always refer to the vision since that is the main purpose of the association.  It is important to share the vision with those around us so they understand why do the things we do. 

            The main difference between student government and a service association is the mentality behind the events.  As the vision states, we are trying to build up Zion communities that are united in heart and mind.  In order to do this we need to have love in our hearts while we simply serve those around us.  I truly feel that if we were a student government, we would not be able to complete the BYUSA vision we have in place.  Charity is the pure love of Christ, and that is exactly what we are trying to portray to the students at Brigham Young University. 

All of these concepts tie into being a divine centered leader.  Since Christ was the perfect example, it is important to study his leadership styles and to strive to be like him.  As a leader in BYUSA I have learned so much this summer and I know I still have a lot more to learn. I’m so grateful for the opportunity I have to be a student leader in BYUSA this year and I know that I will learn lessons that will help me throughout my entire life. I know that by striving to be more like Christ I will be able to help complete the vision of BYUSA. 

Practicum

For our practicum, we planned a booth to have at Involvapalooza in September. Through the practicum I was able to learn a lot about BYUSA protocol and how to work in a team.  When first given the task, we had to clarify with Devin on what he exactly wanted us to plan.  I found that it is important to ask questions when you don’t understand something completely so you can accomplish the task successfully.  When starting our initial planning we made a list of items that we would need.  By making a list we were then able to check our resources to see what we would actually have to buy.  By checking what we already had we were able to cut down on costs.  For example, we already had some otter pops so we didn’t have to allot money for a larger quantity then we needed.  Additionally, this was the first event that we planned together as a team and it was interesting to see different people’s opinions.  We also learned that we can’t always rely on other people to make things happen for us.  For example, we were interested in getting a Clubs spider for Involvapalooza and the rest of the year.  When we spoke to Devin about it he said he would speak to Ryan.  Long story short it took a long time to get a response and we never got a definite answer.  If we could have done something different, we should have started planning sooner so we would have enough time to get the spider approved and ordered.  Also, through this process I learned how to fill out EAFs and Meal Doc forms.  I learned that it is extremely important to be very specific on the forms so the accountants can know the purpose behind the purchase as well as what exactly it is we are buying.   

inspire and educate

Through my role in BYUSA I can inspire and educate other students about the honor code by being an example.  An example is the best way to express your standards and motives in a nonconfrontational manner. It is important to not force the honor code on people, but to share your love for it. If you are a "honor code policeman" you will just drive others away from the blessings that come from abiding by the honor code. It is important to have a good attitude while living the honor code so others can see how happy you are while living it. I know that the honor code brings me true happiness and that by living it I can be the best that I can be. The honor code helps us to become more like Christ which is our overall goal here on Earth. By living it and sharing the happiness that it brings, you can bring more students unto Christ. I know that the gospel correlates with the honor code and it is important to be consistent in both.

how the honor code has blessed me

I have definitely seen the honor code bless my life.  It has helped me socially, intellectually, and spiritually.  I know that the honor code has helped me make better choices in my life.  As I look at my friends attending various universities across the country, it amazes me at the choices they are making.  They believe that they are happy, when truly I know they could be even happier if they were making better decisions.  For example, one of my best friends is living in a house at her school with guys and girls.  When I heard this I forgot that at other schools you could live with the opposite sex.  I know that the having the honor code at BYU helps students to obey the law of chastity and to refrain from making poor decisions that could lead to difficult circumstances.  Additionally, by dressing modestly I have a different type of confidence. I know that it is important to not have people like me only for the my body. It is important to develop relationships with people on a more personal level. Additionally, the honor code has helped me intellectually since I never feel tempted to go out and party through the late night like my friends do at their schools.

Why the Lord has established an honor code at BYU

I believe that the Lord has established an honor code at BYU to help us to become more responsible and accountable.  The honor code allows us to live our lives in a more Christ like manner and help us intellectually, spiritually, and professionally.  The honor code helps me to hold myself accountable to living a virtuous life. I believe that the honor code is consistent with the gospel of Jesus Christ and that is why he established it at BYU.  BYU wants to see its students develop characteristics that will help them exceed not only in this life but after as well. BYU cares about us becoming men and women with standards that will help us succeed in our family life as well as our professional life. In order to be held accountable for something there needs to be some sort of commitment. The honor code gives us the opportunity to be committed to living a life that is virtuous and filled with integrity.

Measuring Success

Self-efficacy- In order to stay organize and to execute objectives, I will keep a monthly calendar. I will make sure to schedule everything that needs to get done onto my calendar. It is important that I look at what is truly a top priority so I schedule those things first. I will schedule my week every Sunday night so I can reduce my stress load and perform to the best of my ability.
Self-determination- In order to stay determined I hope to write in my journal every day.  This way I can start seeing the progress I make over the semesters. Reading over old journals I am always able to see how much I have grown.  This will be a great opportunity for me to see my progress and strive to do even better.
Personal consequence- At the beginning of each month I will write down 5 goals that I have for that month.  At the end of each month I will check back on  my goals and see how I have progressed and what I could have done differently.  By doing this I will be able to make a bigger change and will be able to accomplish more of my goals.  I will also be able to check my own progress.
Meaningfulness- I want to make sure that the volunteers I work with keep in mind the vision of BYUSA since it should be the drive behind every decision we make. In order to do this I will have us say the vision at every meeting.  This will help to remind us of the meaning behind BYUSA and how important the vision is. Also, I want the people I work with to feel like they mean something and to know that they are important to me. Once a month I will write a little note to everyone that I work with.
Trust- I will establish trust with those that I work with my having weekly stewardships with them. At those I will make an effort to get an update on their lives in the BYUSA office as well as outside of the office. It is important that I share information about my own personal life so I will be able to create strong relationships with them.

1 Specific Action Item

One specific action item I will implement to improve the five core dimensions of empowerment for the organization and my area is providing support.  There will be times throughout the year where members of my team will feel down and inadequate.  It is important that I am there to support them by listening, giving them words of encouragement, expressing my gratitude, and providing feedback.  By doing these things I will be able to provide emotional and professional support to my team members.  This will help improve the confidence of others,  make them feel more valuable, become more determined, help them try to become more efficient, and to have more self-determination.  If I recognize the efforts of those around me and show my appreciation they will be driven to do more and to be the best they can be. In order to accomplish this I will tell my fellow Executive Directors, Devin, and my program directors weekly what I appreciate about them in an area meeting or a stewardship.

Become more of a DCL of leaders

I can become a more divine centered leader of leaders by drawing myself closer to the Lord.  I know that I need to study my scriptures more and by doing so I will learn more of Christ's example.  Christ was the perfect leader and I want to strive to be like him everyday.  To do this it is important to build unity, inspire others, work hard, and aim for the heart.  Building unity of those that we work with will help to accomplish the vision and the cause. If everyone knows what they are striving for, they will be able to produce better results.  Additionally, it is important to inspire others to do and be better.  A way to do this is to become and example to them by working hard.  It is important to love those that you are serving with and those that you are serving.  Look into their hearts and see what you can do to truly help them.

Love reflected to others

The love that I reflect can be reflected to volunteers.  A persons attitude is contagious, and it can determine the mood of everyone in around them.  When volunteers come into the office it is important to display the love that we have for what we are doing.  It is vital to express the vision of BYUSA since that is the drive behind every decision we make.  Our love that we reflect will then be recognized by the volunteers and they will then reflect it themselves to those around them; it is a never ending circle.  Eventually, we can reach a  majority of the students on campus by simply showing our love to our volunteers. Charity is the pure love of Christ and is important that love is the drive behind all of our service.  If we serve without love then we aren't really serving.

Leader of Leaders

In the Clubs area we each are a steward of 15-20 clubs on campus.  We assist the club presidents in planning events, meetings, and running their club.  We are resources for the presidents and help then fill out paperwork, advertise, their budget, or simply planning their events. The presidents are leaders of their particular club while we help lead them.  It is an awesome chance for us to impact different groups of people across campus since each club draws different people.

Another way that we are a leader of leaders is by working with other volunteers throughout the year.  We will have program directors, committee members, and volunteers throughout the year that will each be a leader at some point.  It is important that we help them become the best they can be.  We will be a leader of leaders in this way since we may have them in charge of a certain aspect of a program. It is important to train them on protocol and the BYUSA vision.

Conflict: Prepare, Practice, Present

I decided to research, practice, and  present the skill of managing emotions.  Emotions can be a cause of conflict or they can prolong prior conflicts.  It is important that we learn to manage our emotions so we can deal with situations more effectively.  According to a study done by the University of Colorado there are steps to managing emotions.  First, is to recognize your own emotions as well as the person you are working with.  If you realize what your own emotions are you will be able to manage them better.  Additionally, you can manage your emotions to work with the emotions of those around you. Next, find where the source of the emotion is. If it is a negative emotion and you find the source you may be able to work through and remove the emotion. Also, it is important to talk about your feelings. If you withold everything from those that you work with you will not be able to connect and become a team.  It is important to no let things bottle up inside so you don't blow up.  Express your feelings in a non-confrontational manner.  If you are genuine and sincere when expressing your emotions, people will be able to understand where you are coming from.  It is important to no be confrontational because people will feel threatened. Don't react emotionally to emotional outbreaks.

I practiced managing my emotions this week by expressing how I was feeling, taking others emotions into consideration, being quick to forgive, and not reacting to things in an emotional manner. Typically I don't express how I am feeling to others but this week I made an effort to do so.  By doing this I felt that I was able to communicate to those around me effectively.  For example, one of my roommates never does her dishes and I typically do them for her.  I felt that it was time for me to express to her that I was tired of doing her dishes and I would appreciate if she would start doing them.  She didn't realize that it bothered me so much and she started doing her own dishes.  I love the quote, "never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved," by President Monson.  I feel that we can accomplish this by taking other people's emotions into consideration when issues come up.  Sometimes people are going through things that we are not aware of.  Additionally, this past week whenever said something I took as offensive I was quick to let it go and forgive them.  People sometimes say things that they don't realize can be offensive.  To them it could be a joke and they don't intend for it to be mean.  It is important to not take things too personal.  For example, someone said something to me this week which I could have blown out of proportion but instead I forgave them. 

From this experience I learned how to communicate and effectively solve conflict with those around me.  Whether it be with family, roommates, or people in BYUSA it is important to manage your emotions to solve conflict.  I know that if I continue to do this I will be able to have a great year in the office and will not let emotions take control.  I also know that by understanding others emotions I will be able to get to know them on a more personal level and will be able to develop friendships that will last a lifetime.

BYUSA performing

I will help BYUA achieve and maintain the performing stage by helping my area reach their performing stage as well as working with the other areas.  It is important that each area doesn't seclude themselves from the others.  Each area has something different to offer and has different resources.  If we all work together and utilize all of our resources we will be able to perform as an association.  In order to accomplish this, I plan on working with other areas, offering them help if they need it.  Additionally, in order to maintain a performing stage, we will need to become a Zion community.  One way to do this is to be welcoming to everyone and to serve with love.

Area Performing

I will help my area achieve and maintain the performing stage by always giving 100% effort into everything that we do.  To help perform, it is important that we actually follow through and carry out our plans.  If we don't do this, then we are not performing.  It is important that we do not just focus on our own tasks but our tasks as an area as well.  It is vital that we are there for each other and that we help with everything we are trying to accomplish.  It is important that we keep our area vision in mind when planning and implementing activities.  To make this happen, I will be reliable and support my fellow team members.

Area Stage

I believe that my area team is in the norming stage.  We formed together back in April where a sense of trust was established. When we first came together we were quiet, shy, and didn't say much.  At the beginning there was some tension during discussions and I could tell that some people were afraid to speak up and share their opinions.   Eventually we began to speak up more and people had differences of opinions.  At Adventure Experience I felt that some people had conflicting views but we never essentially fought.  The storming stage allowed for us to share our opinions and to grow as a team.  Currently we are in the norming stage.  We are individually planning and working on our certain tasks and preparing for the Fall.  We are able to ask for each other's opinions and suggestions on certain issues but we are not yet performing.

2 Things I learned from the Marketing Style Guide

After reading the marketing style guide I learned that the BYUSA brand is extremely important. It is vital to include the brand on all forms of advertisements so people can associate the activities to our organization.  I also learned that the slash in the BYUSA logo is copyrighted.  Additionally, I believe that the style guide allows for us to become more creative with our advertising.  Also by reading this I found a list of contact information for all of the buildings on campus where we can advertise.

Importance of consistent branding in BYUSA

It is important to have consistent branding in BYUSA so people will be able to associate BYUSA to a particular message.  Consistent branding allows different activities and events to be associated to one organization.  It is important to use the correct branding for BYUSA so people do not get confused.  Consistency allows for repetition and reinforcement of a message and brand.  Also, with consistent branding we will be able to portray our vision of BYUSA.

Get a friend involved

I got my friend Adrianne Syme to get involved in the Activities Area.

Make BYU a Zion Community

I can personally make our BYU community a Zion community in many ways.  First, by having a positive attitude.  Attitude is everything, if you are positive than those around you are more likely to be positive as well.  Smiling is another way to do this.  It is important to walk around campus with a smile and to say hi to people that you come across.  Also, it is important to be inclusive and to not exclude people from things.  I can do this by always being welcoming to people I meet and invite them to do things.  Also, I can continue to create relationships with people in the office so we can create a Zion community in BYUSA which can then spread throughout all of BYU.  It is important for us to be examples to our fellow peers.

Contributing to the Culture of the Office

I plan to continue contributing to the culture of the office by saying hi to everyone and always smiling.  It is important for our team to be like a Zion community so our mission can spread campus wide.  One way to do this is by becoming good friends that are always there for each other. Also, whenever new people come in for tours and are looking for volunteer opportunities it is vital that we are welcoming.  It is important we show an interest in them and assist them in what they are looking for. The culture of the office is to be welcoming, inclusive, and happy.

Why do I volunteer?

I volunteer mainly because I love seeing the smiles and happy looks on other people's faces after they are served in some way.  I love helping people and making them happy.  When people feel like they belong somewhere and are cared about they tend to be happier.  Also, when we serve others we are serving the Lord.  Our whole purpose on Earth is to become more like Christ and return to our Heavenly Father.  Christ was the ultimate example of service; he would help the poor, the sick, the lonely, and the sinners.  It is important for us to serve others so we can feel the spirit of charity which is the pure love of Christ.  When I first started at BYU I just felt that something was missing; I was spending too much time just thinking and doing stuff for myself, I wasn't helping anyone.  I decided I wanted to make a difference on campus and serve those around me, that is when I found BYUSA.

My own finances

The BYUSA financial process will assist me in my own finances by helping me to really think  before I make a purchase.  This process will also help me to keep track of my money and to make sure to save it for future purchases.  Additionally, this will help me to really think if something is important enough to purchase before just buying  it.  It is vital to keep track of all of your expenses so you will be able to pay bills, make payments, and support your family.

Finances Training

I will make sure that each new person in my area is trained and held accountable for the financial process by making sure they get certified.  Certification will help them understand the BYUSA financial protocol.  Additionally, I will stress the importance of following the rules. Also, Administration has told us that each new person that comes into the office needs to get checked in with them in order to be put in the system.  Additionally, admin is training the volunteers and helping them to get certified.  Although, Admin is doing this, it is important that I be proactive in assisting my volunteers to get certified.

Protocol

Organizations use protocol to stay organized and on top of things in order to run successfully.  It is because of protocol that organizations are able to run smoothly for such long periods of time.  A great example of this is the Church.  There are certain rules and regulations on how things work within the Church which helps it to run across the world.  For example, how the bishopric is set up is the same in every ward around the world.  Additionally, we have protocol for all of the finances in the office.  If we didn't have these rules and procedures everything would be extremely chaotic.  

Professionalism

Professionalism creates credibility for numerous reasons. First, it establishes a sense of trust between you and those around you.  Professionalism allows you to be punctual, credible, confident, respectful, and knowledgeable.  It's said that "you only have one chance to make a great first impression."  I believe this to be true.  If you show up to a job interview in shorts and a t-shirt, you will not impress the company.  If you show up in a business suit, they will most likely take you seriously.  It is important that we maintain a sense of professionalism when we are dealing with outside vendors, administration, and different entities on campus.  By being respectful and on time to things we will establish a professional relationship with those around us. Also, by communicating with our team members around us we will be successful in our endeavors and it displays a sense of professionalism.

Divine Leadership

Yes I read the Divine Leadership section in the binder

Knowing the Heart

Knowing a person's name is completely different than knowing their heart.  This term I have been able to truly know the hearts of those that I work with.  I didn't know Devin before I accepted the position as his Executive Director.  But after getting to know him I truly know that he loves those around him and loves to serve.  He is more than just a leader, he is a leader that loves everyone.  Love is the drive behind every choice of his and it is important that I learn from him.

To Be List

6. To Do Be List:

·        The change I wish to see in the world

·        Charitable

·        Loving

·        Kind

·        Genuine

·        A good listener

·        A friend

·        A loving mother

·        A kind sister

·        Dependable

·        Spiritual

·        Christ like

LOVE and SERVICE

5. My motive for service is the look on the person’s face after you have served them in some way.  Additionally, our whole goal here on Earth is to become more like Christ and one way to do that is through service.  Love is the driving force of service for me.  If you love those that you serve, you will be able to make an even larger impact on their lives.  Serving without love is pointless; if you serve for the wrong reasons it isn’t really service.  In our area we talked about our goals for the year, service was the center of all of them.  

RACE

4. I plan to use RACE this year in helping Clubs with their advertising and especially for Care Week.  Care Week is a major activity to plan and RACE will help me to stay organized and on top of things.  Also, RACE helps to space the process of planning and implementing a plan out, so it is easier to manage.  Using RACE for Care Week will help me organize who will be my Program Directors, figuring out what all is needed before actually ordering it, and will help me to organize advertising for it. 

RACE

3. RACE prepares you to become a more successful leader in many ways.  Using RACE helps to produce meaningful results in an organized manner.  Additionally, by using RACE we can guarantee that the events we are planning are centered around the vision.  In RACE we set SMART goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound.  If we follow these guidelines when setting goals, we are more likely able to complete or reach them.  By using RACE, leaders are able to be more focused and organized when planning an event or activity.  Also, this will help us to be more successful leaders because it will help us to make sure that all of the guidelines are met, we follow a time line, and that the goals we set are reasonable.  

Mission

2.  I believe that the BYUSA Mission will truly help us to attain our vision.  By helping make students feel like they belong we are creating a Zion community.  Through the BYUSA class and office hours we are able to develop various leadership skills that will last us a lifetime.   Each activity that BYUSA plans and puts on should have a purpose of meeting the vision behind it.  It is important that every activity lifts those around us.  Additionally, with have Christ the center of our lives and every decision we make, we will be able to truly serve BYU students.  The Honor Code is what distinguishes our university and I think it is so important for us to promote the Honor Code to other students.  BYUSA will help us to develop a love for service that will go on beyond our time at BYU.  We will have opportunities to serve in the future and as long as we have our lives centered on Jesus Christ, we will be able to truly help all of those around us.  

Vision

1."As part of a BYU education, the Student Service Association's vision is to be leaders centered on Jesus Christ, who contribute to the building of Zion communities which are united in heart and mind that there be no intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, or physically poor among us." The BYUSA vision is the motive behind every action and decision we make in BYUSA.  In the Clubs area I especially feel that we are able to implement the vision.  With the various clubs on campus, each student can find a place to belong.  There are clubs that are intellectual, spiritual, emotional, and physical.  For example, there is the Quiz Bowl Club, S.T.O.P., Club Style, and so much more!.  My specific role in the Club’s Area is to be over advertising and Care Week.  Through advertising I will help students to become aware of various activities going on around campus that they can participate in to fulfill their needs, whether they be physical, spiritual, emotional, or intellectual. Through Care Week, clubs are able to raise money for various charities and organizations.  Through this activity BYU students are able to help the temporal needs of those around the world.