Transformation is about becoming better, about positive change.
These were the words of the world-renowned American author, coach and speaker, who wrote many books on leadership. His books sold millions of copies with some on the New York Times bestseller lists.
He runs the Maxwell Leadership and was in the East New Britain capital of Kokopo this week with his team.
He was invited by the PNG Tribal Foundation on a five-year national transformation program.
Mr Maxwell told those gathered at the Rabaul International School hall that transformation does not begin with everyone, instead it starts with someone.
That someone is you. Be the change you want to see in PNG.
It starts with you. Many people want to see change in their country, but are not willing to change themselves.
You see, we do not mind change as long as it is about someone else. When it comes to us making the change, it gets more difficult.
John C. Maxwell
Mr Maxwell said that his greatest challenge as a leader is leading himself.
I am the problem. It is easy for me to give your direction and leadership but it is difficult for me to do what I should do for myself.
Maxwell
He said change makes people feel uncomfortable and do not want to come out of their comfort zones.
Mr Maxwell said that transformation begins with an individual but must also join with someone else as partners in transformation.
People need each other to be part of transformation to happen.
Maxwell
He also said that transformation is like a ladder, helping people wherever they are to climb up, to rise to reach their potential.
I have to come to PNG to hold the ladder for you. I want to give you all the power to climb up. I do that by serving you. I am a servant leader. I lead from the bottom. I hold the ladder and hold you achieve greatness.
Mr Maxwell
He said that great leaders add value to the lives of their people and Transformation PNG is a new day for the people.
He said that transformation also comes from the heart, where the heart represents good values.
Transformation also begins from self worth, which also adds value to another person’s life.
John C. Maxwell
He said transformation also happens when people sit around a table and discuss values that help build bridges for a better future.
The team left yesterday for Eastern Highlands Province.