One of our core values at East Mountain is a commitment to Life-Long Learning. We believe true leaders are men and women who wholeheartedly engage in the process of personal growth and development - head, heart and hands. They embrace their need for growth and restoration by committing themselves to a life of ongoing learning in theology, identity and mission. For this reason we not only host/ lead workshops for residents but also participate in them as a whole community (residents alongside staff and sometimes partners) once a month at what we call “community enrichment” to learn about a topic together.
As much as possible, we try to use “Adult Dialogue Education” (ADE) Methodology at our classes and workshops, which shifts the focus from the teacher to the learner as an active participant in the dialogue that leads to learning. This includes lots of learning tasks and open questions, inviting learners to interact with the content and valuing the diversity of thoughts and experiences in our community.
Our community enrichment last Thursday explored characteristics of successful leaders and practical tips for leading. We discussed concepts such as the importance of knowing your “why,” starting by leading yourself well, being willing to get feedback from others, getting in the “right seat” or role based on your character, conviction, conduct, chemistry, clarity, competency and capacity, and the 5 Practices of successful leaders outlined in Kouzes and Posner’s “Leadership Challenge.” These practices are discussed using real-life examples, movie clips and Scripture.
View a video with a few clips from our most recent community enrichment day:
