Take Your Lead

""As an educator, leader, and project manager, I felt deeply honored to review this work before its release. Richard's insights are both timely and timeless-his words inspired me on multiple levels. The diagrams, illustrative examples and personal narratives are not only engaging but also deeply practical. This book is a powerful tool for anyone seeking to build resilient, empathetic leadership and team culture. I'm grateful for Richard's voice and Dr. D's reflections in this space-it has strengthened my own connection to purpose and the work I've been called to do."" -Dr. Elwanda M. Bennett, MEDP, PMP ""Richard Dillard truly has the heart of a servant leader-always giving himself away for the benefit of others. In Take Your Lead Richard takes us on a personal journey of how he constructed his Personal Leadership Platform and then gives the reader some practical tools to apply in constructing our own. No matter where you are in your maturity as a leader, the Leadership Enrichment LIFE-cycle (LEL-c) is a continual improvement process that can help you construct (or improve) your personal platform, as well as that of your organization. You will find yourself returning to this book as your personal and organizational platforms mature."" -Evan Breedlove, Lt Col, USAF (retired) ""If you are stone-cold serious about becoming the best leader YOU can possibly be and raising the lid on leadership in your organization, I highly recommend Take Your Lead. But do not approach it the same way you would any other book about leadership; READ it for content first, then go back and STUDY it critically. This is not a typical 'feel good' or 'happy talk' generic leadership 'how-to' guide-this book requires work on your part. This book compels you to look at AND evaluate the person that you see in the mirror every morning. You will have to look deep within yourself and your organization-even in places that may make you a little uncomfortable. But if you can find the strength to open your mind for honest evaluation, this book will without a doubt help you and your organization reach maximum potential!"" -Frank Ciszek, MSgt, USAF (retired) ""Grow, change, or wither."" Leadership and organizational behavior are dynamic, ever-evolving fields that demand constant reflection and adaptation. For those willing to challenge their perspectives and elevate their leadership approach, Take Your Lead by Richard S. Dillard and Dr. Brian G. Dillard offers a transformative journey. Rooted in the authors' own experiences, the book offers practical tools and profound insights that seamlessly integrate leadership with organizational culture and performance. The book explores innovative methods for leadership development while clearly defining the personal growth necessary to enhance both individual and organizational performance. ""Richard and Brian share a deeply personal and authentic narrative which emphasizes the importance of introspection, emotional intelligence, and moral authority as the foundations of effective leadership. Their concept of the ""Leadership Platform"" introduces a refreshing framework that evolves through real-life experiences, guiding leaders to align their values, beliefs, and behaviors in a meaningful way. Unlike conventional leadership guides, Take Your Lead challenges readers to embrace ""non-neutral learning,"" a transformative approach that pushes beyond comfort zones and demands sustained personal growth. Take Your Lead is a true call to action for those ready to commit to authentic, purpose-driven leadership. Highly recommended for individuals willing to undertake the hard work of building something meaningful and lasting."" -Cynthia J Martin, Organizational Transformation and Performance