What a tragedy!  I put the last drop of syrup on my pancakes and now the container sat empty.  Shaped not unlike the figure of my own grandmother, Mrs. Butterworth had given her all in the cause of tasty breakfasts.  Her one purpose was to provide the finishing touch to a plate of crispy bacon, two eggs over easy, and a slice of orange.  Now that was fulfilled and she was headed for the trash can.

Meanwhile, Honey Bear sat smuggly on the shelf.  We have had Honey Bear for over a year now.  He too sweetens our meals - drizzled over biscuits, fruit, even chicken and fish, and spooned into afternoon tea.  But he never seems to run out of yummy honey.  Yes, Honey Bear will be around for a long, long time.

As a leader I sometimes feel like Mrs. B.  I am filled with wonderful ideas, skills, and talents.  I am willing and able to serve my organization and others with "all that I am and all that I have" - words from the traditional wedding vows!

But my "stuff" is quickly used up and I am tossed aside; another takes my place and life goes on.

What if I were more like Honey Bear - filled with something that flowed out more slowly?  Would that make me a better leader... if I could stick around longer?

I put Mrs. Butterworth in the dishwasher and will refill the bottle with rich, thick Vermont maple.  She's going back in the pantry with Honey Bear.

Being transparent is a key attribute for those who lead and serve.  However, if folks can see inside you and your are getting close to empty, what good is that? 

When have you given until you had nothing left? 

Do you have a plan to renew and refill before you get to your "last drop?"