Proverbs 1.5-6 explains that to change my behavior I must become more discerning. Thus, discernment drives wise behavior.
Absorbing the precepts yields a wise and discerning character that’s rewarded with multiplied learning through the impartial advice of others. Proverbs 1.5-6 paraphrase
The Precept Explained
Discernment is a valuable trait for me to develop as a leader.
In fact, I must be perceptive about what’s happening around me if I’m to think clearly, form sound decisions, and behave wisely.
To become more discerning, I need a passion for personal growth. And, growth requires purposeful character change.
As such, Proverbs 1.2-9 outlines the process for clear thinking, sound decisions, and wise behavior that are grounded in who I am.
Character Formation
My changed behavior is rooted in the development of my character.
Thus, my capacity to think clearly, decide rationally, and behave wisely improves as I undergo character growth. And, that growth is measured against the precepts.
Circle of Competence
It’s wise for me to listen with my heart and not just with my head because that’s how I become most impactful.
Likewise, it’s discerning for a leader to expand his/her circle of competence by heeding sound advice.
In addition, a wise and discerning leader grasps underlying meaning and draws from sound counsel. Then, the leader acts in the long-term, best interest of the organization.
Multiplied Growth
Whereas, the phrase “increase learning” in Proverbs 1.5 describes the compounding of character. So, it’s just like the compounding of interest.
That growth occurs in my personal and professional life as I absorb the precepts.
As a result, by using the compounding principle, my growth can be geometric, not simply linear!
Leadership Insight
First, the progression in Proverbs 1.2-6 teaches that a wise and discerning character produces clear thinking.
Second, clear thinking influences sound decisions.
Third, those decisions drive wise behavior.
Discernment Drives Wise Behavior
Thus, to improve my effectiveness as a leader I must get to root cause because character impacts behavior.
In short, I believe this HEART –> HEAD –> HAND progression in Proverbs 1 is a version of the widely used Know-Do-Be leadership framework.
1). Head is what I know.
2). Hand is what I do.
3). Heart is who I am – the “Be” of this model.
Apply This Today!
Who I am at my core drives how I think. Also, my character controls what I do!
Ultimately, discernment drives wise behavior. Why? Because when I choose to know wisdom I choose to change who I am!
What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com