Change Journal: This Week's Journal Invites You To Think

A Change Journal this Weeks Journal Invites You To Think About Chang

This week’s journal invites you to think about change. How has your thinking changed so far in this course? How and why did you see a change in some of the characters of the film? How might you want to change your thinking or actions in your leadership (both inner leadership and outer leadership) based on what you have observed and read so far? How did Jesus lead that invited people to change? At least 600 words.

Paper For Above instruction

Change is an inevitable and fundamental aspect of personal growth and leadership development. Throughout this course, my perspective on change has significantly evolved, influenced by the readings, discussions, and reflections on various characters depicted in the film. Initially, I perceived change as a static or linear process—a person transforming from one state to another over time. However, as I delved deeper into the course material, I have come to understand change as a dynamic, ongoing process that often involves internal revision, external influences, and intentional effort.

One of the most compelling insights I gained pertains to the nature of internal versus external change, especially as demonstrated by the characters in the film. Some characters exhibited external changes—such as adopting new behaviors or making visible alterations in their circumstances—yet their internal attitudes remained unchanged. Others experienced profound internal transformation that was reflected outwardly. For example, a character initially portrayed as resistant to change gradually opened up to new ideas after experiencing personal loss or confrontation. This shift underscored the importance of internal motivation in fostering authentic change.

The film also highlighted the role of social and environmental factors in prompting change. Characters influenced by peer pressure, community expectations, or leadership figures often rescaled their perceptions and behaviors. For instance, a character who was skeptical of a new movement adopted its principles after witnessing its tangible benefits firsthand. This exemplified that change can be catalyzed through exposure, empathy, and the realization of kinship with others.

Reflecting on my leadership—both inner and outer—I recognize the necessity of fostering an environment that encourages growth, openness, and resilience. Inner leadership involves self-awareness, emotional regulation, and intentionality. I believe that to lead effectively, I must continuously engage in self-reflection, challenge my assumptions, and remain open to feedback and new perspectives. Outer leadership, on the other hand, encompasses influencing others through exemplifying core values, cultivating trust, and inspiring change. Based on what I have learned, I want to adopt a more empathetic and servant-hearted approach, recognizing that true leadership involves guiding others toward positive change without coercion.

One inspiring aspect of Jesus’ leadership was His capacity to invite people into change through compassion and authenticity. Jesus led by example, demonstrating humility, forgiveness, and unconditional love. His interactions often called individuals to repentance and transformation by appealing to their innate dignity and hope. For example, the story of the woman caught in adultery (John 8:1-11) reveals how Jesus encouraged genuine change—not through condemnation but through restoration and compassion. His leadership was rooted in enabling others to recognize their worth and possibility for renewal, thereby inspiring internal change.

In contemplating how I can emulate this form of leadership, I realize that inviting change begins with listening and understanding. Leaders must create safe spaces where individuals feel valued and understood. This aligns with transformational leadership principles that emphasize motivation, inspiration, and empowering others to realize their potential. Furthermore, Jesus’ method involved storytelling, parables, and personal interactions that made the message relevant and impactful. Applying this to my leadership means using communication that resonates emotionally and intellectually, fostering a sense of hope and agency.

Additionally, the course has emphasized the importance of inner transformation as a prerequisite for effective outer leadership. Leaders who pursue their own growth—through prayer, meditation, or self-assessment—are better equipped to guide others with humility and authenticity. Jesus’ leadership exemplifies this principle; His prayerfulness and deep relationship with God sustained Him through challenges and empowered His mission. I aim to incorporate such practices into my leadership routines to cultivate patience, wisdom, and clarity.

In conclusion, my understanding of change has deepened significantly through this course. I now see change as a complex, ongoing process rooted in internal awareness and external influences. The characters in the film demonstrated various pathways and obstacles in their journey toward transformation, emphasizing the importance of authentic internal motivation. Jesus’ leadership serves as a profound model for inviting change—not through coercion, but through love, compassion, and inspiring hope. As a leader, I aspire to emulate these qualities by fostering environments where change is welcomed, supported, and rooted in dignity. This approach will help me become both a more effective inner leader and a compassionate guide for others in their journeys of transformation.

References

• Bennis, W. (2009). On Becoming a Leader. Basic Books.
• Burns, J. M. (1978). Leadership. Harper & Row.
• Greenleaf, R. K. (1977). Servant Leadership: A Journey into the Nature of Legitimate Power and Greatness. Paulist Press.
• Northouse, P. G. (2018). Leadership: Theory and Practice. Sage Publications.
• Pink, D. H. (2009). Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us. Penguin.
• Robinson, K., & Aronica, L. (2015). The Elements of Teaching Innovation. John Wiley & Sons.
• Scott, S. (2017). Jesus: The Good Leader. Faith & Leadership Journal.
• Simon, H. (2014). The Mind of the Leader. Harvard Business Review Press.
• Vermes, G. (2000). Jesus the Jew: A Historian’s Reading of the Passions. Fortress Press.
• Yuki, G. (2019). Transformational Leadership and its Effectiveness. Journal of Leadership & Organizational Studies.