There are three central themes running through the book:
1. The Spark: Why Are You Here?
When we discover
The reason why we are here on Earth—our Destiny;
How we will be in the world, and how we wish to impact others and influence them through our example—our Character; and
What we will do with our gifts and talents to serve others—our Calling;
…we become inspired and therefore inspiring. This is our North Star. In addition, organizations and people need:
A dream which fuels the Spark—ONE Dream™. And since the Spark relies on the ignition of relationships, we need
A tool to help us strengthen them—5 Dynamics®
Developing an understanding of these five concepts gives rise to our Spark—we awaken to our potential and the realization that we can live large and are capable of changing the world.
2. The Flame: How Will You Inspire and Lead, and Change the World in the Process?
Once we have ignited our own Spark, the next step to becoming an inspired and inspiring individual and leader is to become a Flame for the world by living a set of values called the CASTLE Principles™. CASTLE is an acronym that stands for Courage, Authenticity, Service, Truthfulness, Love, and Effectiveness. When fully lived, these principles are the path to becoming freed from enduring small, uninspiring lives. They enable us instead, to live bright lives—as a Flame that lights the way for others, making a difference, inspiring others and lifting their spirits.
3. The Torch: How Will You Share Your Wisdom with Others?
The spark ignites the flame, and the flame sets fire to the torch. We convert the Spark into a Flame, using it to light the Torch, which we pass to others. The Torch is the legacy we create; it is the gift of mentoring, coaching, and supporting people's growth so that their Spark is awakened. The Torch is paying it forward, teaching others, helping them to develop, and sharing the philosophy of inspiring leadership with them. And when we light another’s Torch, our own Flame is enhanced, burning even more brightly. Values-centered Leadership® is a unique methodology that helps us to be more effective in these areas.