Happy Wednesday Everyone! Today’s Core Value is: We Create Our Future.
The Holiday Parties are in full force, which reminds me of a story. Several years ago, I was at a dinner party, and somehow, I got in a conversation with a few lawyer-types about what we’re all good at. As I’ve mentioned before, I don’t give compliments well and I don’t take them well…the only thing more awkward than my relationship with compliments is vocalizing what I think I may be good at. “Get me out of this conversation” was the only thing going through my mind.
So, to keep the conversation moving, as in move it to completion and walk away, I said: “I can’t think of one thing I’m particularly good at professionally speaking, except understanding people.” The group looked at me and was quiet for a second or two which felt like eternity…then an attorney in the group said: “And that’s why you will end up being more successful than any of us.” With that, I said: “Oh…I don’t know about that…” and pretended to need to use the restroom.
My point in sharing this story is to point out something the attorney understood much better than I did. Looking back on my career, I’ve learned that relationships and connections drive success and build futures, not rugged individualism. Being the warrior in the colosseum, making sure full credit and attention falls on you, can make you a hero for a day, but it’s hardly a good formula for long-term success. Be sure you have the technical skills to do your job and do it well, but always be open to meeting people, understanding them, learning from them, and investing yourself in them. It is one of life’s great mysteries – the surest way to create the future you seek is to work at helping others create the future they seek.
Have a great day! John