Policing’s processes and values of control often get in the way of its own development. It is this culture of policing that struggles in the constant daze of metamorphosis, almost to the point of cultural paralysis.
Podcast – Stepping out of the status quo closet
I was bullied in school. At 17, I was left at the crossroads of pursuing a career as a DJ or becoming a police officer, and for purely monetary reasons, I chose the uniform. Even with the uniform, the bullying continued, but I survived for 26 years in the line of duty working my way up the ladder, leading the status quo life, becoming "King of the S**t," and then stepping up the ladder to consider becoming "S**t of the Kings!" Finally, the status quo of life sent me to the dark places of anxiety and depression. I recently appeared on the 'Life (Un)Closeted Podcast as a guest of Rick Clemons, Inspiring Speaker, Status Quo Disruptor and Bold Move Expert. Sharing my truth, my journey, and my 'uncloseting' from living a status quo life, even when others scratched their heads thinking, "What's wrong with this bloke? His life looks pretty damn good to me!"
Big Four Weeks
I know that in my business there will be peaks and there will be troughs. Even though the troughs may at times feel like the deepest of trenches, it is these peaks that keep me going and reaffirm for me that my message is right, my message is strong, people want to hear my message and the giving back to the community pays itself forward, back to me in the long run.
Strength lies in Humility
Showing humility is hard, especially for traditional leaders. Old power and old culture suggests that leaders are the ones that tell people what to do, they have answers. Humility can feel soft when times are hard and may make leaders appear vulnerable. Be here’s the thing. This is exactly humility’s virtue.
Show Empathy – Even when you’re stuck – Part 2
When he arrives he sees the car is in fact stuck on the traffic island. All four (4) wheels are off the ground. The engine is running. There is only one person in the car and he is driving!
Show Empathy – Even when you’re stuck – Part 1
When he arrives he sees the car is in fact stuck on the traffic island. All four (4) wheels are off the ground. The engine is running. There is only one person in the car and he is driving!
Devalue values at your peril
Antoine De Saint‐Exupéry, author of The Little Prince once said, ‘If you want to build a ship, don't drum up the people to gather wood, divide the work, and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea.’
I needed to get away from the habit
On the third of July 1987, I am sworn in a police officer in the Queensland Police Force. On the very same day, the Queensland government announces that it is launching the biggest royal commission into police and government corruption in Queensland and perhaps Australia’s history.
Drinking from the Carafe
I notice the look on the defendant face change to one of confusion. I see the defence solicitor out of the corner of my eye also look weirdly at me. I still haven’t realised that I’ve picked up the carafe.
To thine own self, be true.
I’d like to think that if people were to describe me, they would suggest that I have a strong moral compass. The final part of my solution to you, to be a leader even if you are the only one in the team, is, to Be True. Be authentic to yourself and those who follow … Continue reading To thine own self, be true.
