Are you over-worked and under-paid? Have you ever felt the sacrifices you have made to the organization’s success were not appreciated? If you have been laid off or fired, do you regret giving everything you had to a company that discarded you like yesterday’s newspaper?
If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes”, then you would identify with Aaron Cross. Cross, played by Jeremy Renner, is the central character in the fourth installment of the Bourne series, The Bourne Legacy.
The problem with sequels is that they are always compared to the original. The Bourne series, previously starring Matt Damon, are simply action movie classics. The Bourne Legacy as a stand alone is a fun movie. The challenge for the viewer, however, is the default mode of comparison.
The following are six leadership quotes and principles that leaders can apply to the family, church, business, athletic, or non-profit sectors:
- “You were given a Ferrari and your people treated it like a lawn mower” – Regardless of the amount of intelligence they collected or their effectiveness in the field, the agents were deemed to be a liability and eliminated. Successful leaders value poeple. People are your only appreciable asset. Viewing them as replaceable commodities is a mistake made by many of today’s leaders and organizations. Leaders, please value people.
- “We are morally indefensible and absolutely necessary.” – Leaders know that the end never justifies the means. Sustainable leadership is built upon a platform of character. Otherwise, though you may be extremely talented, your talent will only take you to places where your character cannot sustain you.
- The Value Of Preparation – Cross was participating in an Alaskan training exercise in the film’s opening scene. I was reminded that the level of your success is in direct proportion to the price you are willing to pay in the area of preparation.
- The Value Of Skill – As in all the Bourne movies, whether it is fighting, weaponry, or government intel, the agents frequently use their incredible level of skill to solve issues. Developing high levels of skill and competence is critical to a leader’s success.
- The Value Of Creativity – My favorite scene in the movie is a confrontation between Cross and a wolf. Depending on the issues a leader may face, traditional solutions may not be an option. Leaders always “find a way” and thinking outside the box is often necessary to advance mission and vision.
- The final leadership lesson has specific meaning to church leaders. The movie does an excellent job weaving in the story lines from the previous three films. Leaders know that in established environments with deep roots, you cannot move into the future without first touching the past.
I recommend seeing The Bourne Legacy. You will have a great time. Let me know what you think of movie.
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