Wisdom
Larry’s Leadership Lineup
We were in Kentucky exploring part of the famous Bourbon Trail. As we toured different facilities, I was amazed at the different yet very similar stories I was hearing about bourbon, families, farmers, struggles and the recent boom. We were at one small distillery that offered a unique experience. I noticed that one of the team members, Evan, was especially skilled at his craft.
This is where the fun started for me. I walked up to Evan and began a conversation. I eventually asked his expert opinion on the barrels that we were observing. He was hesitant at first to give me his opinion, not wanting to sway me in one direction. Eventually, as I kept asking questions, he revealed his wisdom to me.
I followed Evan’s advice to the letter and wound up with a fun, memorable, and unique experience.
I know very little about the Bourbon Trail. I know even less about the skill it takes to produce a good product. But I did recognize that Evan was incredibly knowledgeable. I knew if I could glean his wisdom, I would be able to make a much better decision. This meant I had to ask good questions, listen, and learn from this craftsman.
When we know what we don’t know, it opens the door for those with wisdom to speak into our lives. The problem is that many times, we don’t know what we don’t know. Our lack of self-awareness means that we don’t see our own limitations.
Those who don’t have to be experts on everything will experience better relationships in their lives. When we choose to learn from others, we will make a difference.
Dr. Larry Little
Eagle Center for Leadership
In today’s evolving world, the Decatur Police Department is called upon to demonstrate a unique blend of strength, integrity, and compassion. At the heart of effective policing is not only a commitment to justice, but also the wisdom to handle complex social situations with empathy and understanding. Wisdom goes beyond knowledge or technical skill; it is the ability to apply experience, insight, and good judgment to challenging situations, especially those involving people from diverse backgrounds. For police officers, wisdom means understanding when to be firm and when to show flexibility, recognizing the nuances of each encounter, and making decisions that not only uphold the law but also promote peace and trust. Achieving this requires grounding in the core principles of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and Conflict Resolution—skills that build trust within the community, strengthen relationships among colleagues, and support personal well-being in a demanding profession.
“Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.”
Emotional Intelligence is the ability to recognize and manage one’s own emotions while understanding and influencing those of others. It is an essential tool for officers on the front lines. When you are aware of your emotions and can respond calmly and thoughtfully, you are better equipped to de-escalate potentially volatile situations. This self-awareness, combined with social awareness and empathy, enables officers to make quick decisions that prioritize safety and respect, even in high-pressure situations.
Conflict Resolution skills enhance Emotional Intelligence by providing structured strategies to address and resolve disputes effectively. For police officers, these skills are crucial both in the field, where de-escalation is often needed, and within teams, where strong, cohesive relationships boost teamwork and morale. Mastering these skills can transform public interactions, empowering you to build trust and understanding within the communities you serve.
In this module, we will explore the principles of Emotional Intelligence and Conflict Resolution. Applying these skills can help law enforcement not only enforce the law but also serve as anchors of stability, respect, and compassion within our community. With each session, we’ll strengthen your ability to connect, resolve, and lead—qualities that define impactful policing. Let's get started!
