Are We Asking Too Much of One Person?

Today is the culmination of a very hyped up election season. In talking with my friends and thinking about why I voted the way I did, I realized how much our discussions focused on what one man could do for us. Are we expecting too much from our future President?

I am not downplaying the tremendous role and the level of responsibility that the President holds. But, with all the issues swirling around, I am concerned that Americans are expecting one person to come in and "fix it all". No matter who we elect, that won't happen. As any leader knows, real change happens when the members, citizens, or employees take the initiative and take action. We can vote in a new President, but if we as citizens aren't taking care of our business like we expect the President to take care of the country's business, change will not happen.

If you are looking for a leader who is positive and forward-thinking, are you? If you are looking for a leader who is inclusive and respectful of others, are you (and this includes those people who are politically against you!)? If you are looking for a leader to get us on stronger financial footing, are you making personal financial decisions that support this? If you are looking for a President who supports the environment, are you? If you are looking for a President who is working for solutions, are you? How is electing one person going to fix all that is wrong? It won't, but collectively, individuals can.

There is an excitement in the air knowing that our country will experience a change in leadership, one person or another, but it will be a change. We can't think that our job is done once we cast our ballot. We must "be the change we want to see in the world". All issues begin and end locally. Every time you talk about what you like or don't like about what the new President is doing, ask yourself if you are part of the solution or part of the problem.

What are you doing to reflect what you expect from the new President?