Two of my former students spent the weekend with us.

I was privileged to have taught them at the undergraduate and graduate levels. I was blessed to officiate their wedding ceremony and baptize the groom on the night before his wedding. I'm happy they have kept in touch.

I've heard for years that some college professors develop gambling problems. The theory is that professors rarely see the outcomes of their work and become needy for the instant feedback provided by gambling. Thankfully, I don't need gambling therapy.

I learned that all my questioning about my "toughness" in the classroom was wasted. I was reminded that great students deserve demanding professors. Anything less is malpractice in teaching.

Demand must be a deliverable of any leader. A demand for excellence produces the future of the company. Those young people who choose to be average will find their mean outcomes. But excellence isn't built on average performance.

Demand students to write well and they will write copy and press releases for the CEO. Demand students to become excellent speakers and they will speak in large groups and in key meetings. Demand students to think and question and they will lead those who can't or won't.

I reminded the young couple this weekend that their twenties are for learning and their thirties are for earning. (And their forties are for owning.) I want more for them. They know I am demanding more excellence from them. They didn't come to me for a pat on the back.

They are focused on their relationship with the Lord, each other and their careers. Their priorities seem right. Their path is well lit.

Leaders don't need to gamble. Demanding leaders see great outcomes.

Tough on standards. Soft on people.

"Do you not know that all those who run in a race run, but one receives the prize? So run, that you may obtain it. Everyone who strives for the prize exercises self-control in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown, but we an incorruptible one" (1 Cor. 9:24-25).

Dr. Steve Greene is the publisher and executive vice president of the media group at Charisma Media and executive producer of the Charisma Podcast Network. His book, Love Leads: The Spiritual Connection Between Your Relationships and Productivity, is now available.

Leaders, Dr. Greene wants to help you understand the spiritual connection between relationships and productivity. Read his new blog, here.

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Dr. Steve Greene is now sharing stories, teachings, and conversations with guests who lead with love on Love Leads, a new podcast. Listen now.

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