On June 5, the Arvada Chamber of Commerce hosted the Membership Luncheon “A Community of Catalytic Leaders” to help members better understand what it takes to be a leader in Arvada. The program’s speakers discussed how members can grow as a leader, productively influence the community, and grow their role in Arvada and beyond.
The program featured a keynote speaker, Chris Adams (Thrive Workplace), and a panel of outstanding local leaders: Ray Gonzales (Adams County Manager), Leslie Dahlkemper (Jefferson County Commissioner), Emily Robinson (First Bank), Lisa Steven (Hope House of Colorado), and Larry Barker (Sonsio).
“There’s a significant difference between being in charge and being a leader,” said Chris Adams during his keynote. He defined catalyst as an agent that is brought into an environment and sparks a change. The difference between being in charge versus being a leader, said Chris, is the catalyst part.
What makes a catalytic leader? Chris offered three qualities:
- A Commitment to TRUTH. “The most powerful person in any room is the person who is most honest. Chris noted that on a day-to-day basis, we lie to ourselves all the time to cover up stress, discouragement, and secrets. Those actions are easier than the truth. Until we have ruthless honesty with ourselves, we cannot effectively influence others.
- A Commitment to EXPANSION. Catalytic leaders don’t stabilize. Commit to thinking big picture and setting higher goals. Then build a realistic plan to accomplish those goals. Always ask “What’s next?” with regard to expansion and arenas to make an impact.
- A Commitment to ACTION. “By nature, a catalyst does not sit still.” Great leaders are committed to action. They don’t sit back and think “eventually someone will get to it.” Catalytic leaders see where they can make an impact and take action.
Watch a video of the panel discussion below!
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