Tag: personal-development
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NorthStar Perspectives – November Edition Theme: Leadership in Times of Change
Opening Message From David Hanslip, Founder of NorthStar Perspectives November is a season of transition. The vibrant colors of autumn remind us that change is not only inevitable—it can be beautiful. Leadership works the same way. When uncertainty arrives, great leaders don’t cling to the past; they adapt, inspire, and guide others toward a future…
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Leadership Starts With Self-Leadership
When we think about leadership, we often picture guiding others—giving direction, making decisions, inspiring teams. But the truth is, leadership begins long before you step in front of a group. It starts with the person in the mirror. Self-leadership is the foundation of every great leader. It’s about managing your own thoughts, actions, and habits…
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Calm Under Fire: Why Tactical Communication Is a Leadership Superpower
In moments of crisis, leadership isn’t measured by titles—it’s measured by composure. When the pressure rises, the ability to remain calm and communicate effectively becomes the difference between chaos and control. This is where tactical communication shines as a true leadership superpower. What Is Tactical Communication? Tactical communication is more than just talking—it’s strategic dialogue…
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Leadership Is Not a Title—It’s a Responsibility
Leadership is often misunderstood. Too many associate it with rank, status, or authority. But real leadership isn’t about being in charge—it’s about being accountable, being present, and being willing to serve. After more than 36 years of experience in military policing, security, and youth mentorship, I’ve come to understand leadership as a daily practice rooted…
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🧭 Leadership Starts With You: Understanding, Supporting, and Leading by Example
What is leadership? It’s more than a title or a position. True leadership is about responsibility, empathy, and example. It’s not just about doing the job—it’s about knowing the job, understanding your people, and being willing to walk beside them, especially when the work gets tough. Leadership is influence. Done well, it uplifts, motivates, and…
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Where Have All the Leaders Gone? A Call to Cultivate Leadership in the Next Generation
In my years of working in security, mentoring youth, and serving within the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet program, one truth has become increasingly clear: leadership is not a title—it’s a responsibility. It’s a calling to serve, to guide, and to inspire. And yet, as I look around at the world today, I see a troubling…
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Pushing Forward—Even When the Odds Are Against You
Pushing Forward—Even When the Odds Are Against You Recently, I received some tough news: my goal of joining the Canadian Armed Forces Cadet Instructor Cadre as an officer may not be possible due to medical concerns. It was a hard pill to swallow. This is something I’ve worked toward with passion and purpose, and hearing…
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Lighting the Way: Why I Started NorthStar Perspectives
Every journey begins with a question. Mine was simple: What happened to respect? After decades in the security industry, working alongside people from all walks of life—many of whom became like family—I’ve seen the best and worst of human interaction. I’ve witnessed leadership that inspires, and leadership that discourages. I’ve seen communication build bridges, and…
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When Leadership Hurts: Navigating Disagreement in a Community That Feels Like Family
In the security world—and especially in volunteer-driven communities—relationships often run deeper than job titles. We work side by side, share meals, support each other through life’s challenges. Over time, colleagues become friends, and friends become like family. But what happens when someone in that “family”—especially someone in a leadership role—starts setting poor examples? It’s one…
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Leading Through Fear: Choosing Courage Over Comfort
Leadership is not about having all the answers. It’s about having the courage to ask the right questions—even when the answers might be uncomfortable. Fear is a constant companion in leadership. It whispers doubts: What if I make the wrong call? What if I lose the respect of my team? What if I fail? These…
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