About
On the one hand, we are similar–even alike (see Maslow and Glasser for more on that). On the other, we are complex and unique. An individual is a challenge. Put individuals together in a group and the complexity increases exponentially. This said, the hardest understanding for us is to “know thyself.”
In one sense, I’m a generalist, comfortable in nearly any setting, and content with a great deal or not much. However, the common denominator always coursing through my head is formation–what, how, why, and what now?
By training and education, I’m a counselor. I was in private practice for years. That’s where I learned about people. But then I built an organization and learned about groups of people and leadership. After while, I had the opportunity to go into other organizations and learn about diverse individuals and groups. Then, I got to do this not only across America, but internationally. And I was always thinking about individual, group, and personal formation, development, strategy, and growth because that’s the way God wired me to think.
As you explore PrestonGillham.com this is the common thread. You’ll see it whether I’m talking about fishing or transitioning a family-owned/run business. The starting point for the human, after the needs of safety and shelter are supplied, is the heart. I’ll talk about “heart” a lot, but mostly I’ll illustrate it and demonstrate it because it is best shown and easily evades definition.
I have worked with many churches and Christian organizations. My own faith is extremely important to me (more about that later). As a result, spiritual formation–how we grow in our faith, what importance should this have in life, how to remedy a spiritual life run-aground or abused, faith in the marketplace, etc.–is an area of my expertise. I believe I’m especially skilled at practically integrating spiritual formation with leadership principles. I’ve had the opportunity to help guide this process–for pastors and CEO’s, Executive Directors and Presidents, ministry staffs and executive leadership teams.
I’m a writer. I write books and blogs, and I write to think; sometimes, I just write because it is in me and has to come out. As my thoughts come together into something worthwhile, my commitment is to transfer the contents of my head and heart into PrestonGillham.com for your consideration. Once I get started, my hope is to post more often than not. Thank you in advance for reading, commenting, and telling your friends about the things that you find meaningful.
I’m also a consultant. You can find all you want to know about my consulting under “Resources.” I ran a nonprofit organization for nearly thirty years. (That’s hard to do when you are only forty-one years old.) Most people don’t realize what a rough and tumble place the nonprofit business world is, especially the religious nonprofit world. But, it’s true.
Over the years, our staff did great work and we were successful. We put a serious dent in our ambitious mission statement, did so with exemplary financial accountability and efficiency, and were wildly blessed to influence the lives of thousands all over the world. We dealt with our donors relationally and built a family that collaborated in reaching beyond themselves to achieve more than any of us could have individually dreamed.
As a result, leaders began contacting me for advice and consultation. One of the gifts God has given me is that of being able to see through complex, challenging situations and help others focus on what is truly important and right for them. I’m also skilled at communicating the practical application of the next steps necessary to get down the road. Over the years, I’ve gotten to assist churches, nonprofits, business leaders and their companies, groups of lawyers working to rebuild countries ruined by Communism, and individuals trying to discern their heart’s desire. In addition, I’ve developed a specialty in guiding transition processes–transitions of leadership, transitions of change, transitions of family-run businesses, and transitions from one area of expertise to another.
I am a committed follower of Jesus Christ. I don’t wear that on my sleeve–don’t typically talk matters of faith with the person sitting next to me on the airplane, etc.–because that’s not my personality, but neither is it the way Jesus opened up His conversation with me about faith. I’ll tell you what I think, offer some pointers as we go along, but mainly I’m committed to taking you with me on my adventure of faith in Jesus Christ.
I’m married to Dianne–have been since 1990. She’s a delightful lady. I know I’m biased, but other people think so too. She teaches Kindergarten and it is an amazing thing to behold. I’ll mention her from time to time because she’s important and I love her.
I’ll also mention my bicycle and my fly fishing because they are also important and I love them. Differently than I love Dianne, but my conviction stands. When I have some heavy lifting to do in my soul or spirit, I ride. If it is truly weighty stuff, I fish. Truth be told, most of the time I ride and fish because that’s what I do.
Thanks again for the investment of your time and heart at PrestonGillham.com. If you have something you think I need to know or that is beneficial, please contact me. Oh, and feel free to pass along what you like or find important.
