If greatness is your goal, whether in your business life, your personal relationships or your own personal growth, here are some guidelines to get you on your way. Greatness is possible! You can achieve the goals you set for yourself and you can make a difference in your own life and those who live and work around you! Set greatness as your goal! Here’s how:
Identify greatness for yourself. While there are some basic generalities that most people would consider great, there are broader definitions of greatness, ones that each individual sets for him or herself. For example, most people would consider Mother Theresa great while only some would consider Donald Trump great. Helping humanity is a broad generality while building a real estate fortune isn’t. So what you need to first do is ask, “What does greatness look like for this company, organization, family or for myself?” From there you can develop values and a mission statement etc. But if you don’t first identify it, you’ll never reach it.
Maximize targeted end results. As Covey says, “begin with the end in mind.” What end results do you want. Be specific. Come up with all of them. Maximize them. Leave no stone uncovered. Set out for yourself all of the goals or end results you must hit in order to reach greatness. Write them down, memorize them and distribute them broadly (if doing this for a group). Maximize your targeted end results!
Make distinction your endeavor. What is the endeavor of the great? Usually it is to distinguish themselves from the average. They seek to rise above the rest by the quality of their product or service. Everything goes toward the goal of making themselves distinct from the run of the mill. That is their mission. And in doing so, they make themselves great!
Map your effort thoroughly. The three most important words in real estate are “location, location, location.” In reaching a goal, the three most important words are “plan, plan, plan.” Okay, “execute” and “persevere” work too, but go with me here! Too many people wish they would achieve something but never write down a plan for getting there. When I want to go on a long trip I don’t just wish to get there. I plan on how to get there. I get a map, I figure out distances, times etc. Map out your goal thoroughly. This will help you achieve greatness.
Regularly take time for regeneration. Achieving greatness is hard! You will care more, work harder, and take more lumps and setbacks than the rest. So you will need to take time to regenerate so you can fight again another day. Your body needs rest. Your mind needs rest. Your emotions need rest. Your spirit needs rest. I firmly believe that a person who rests well can do more in less time than the one works without setting aside time for regeneration. You may be able to reach goals without rest, but somewhere along the line, you will fall harder and longer if you aren’t regularly regenerating yourself. So take your vacation time this year!
Have a strict evaluation process. Every plan and goal needs an evaluation tool. And it should be a strict evaluation process. This is how you objectively decide whether or not you are proceeding toward your goal. If you have the right evaluation tool and you look six months into it and you aren’t hitting the goals, perhaps you need to change the goal or the way you are going after it. The evaluation process is not to be underestimated in its importance!
Take somebody else with you. True greatness is not individual. The one who becomes great spreads the reward of greatness around. Incorporate many people into the plan and let them eat of the fruit of success. I live in an area that has literally thousands of millionaires created by a company that had a vision of greatness. And while yes, they experience the reward, the rewards then go out many levels through the whole community, from businesses that support our community to non-profit groups, churches, and schools. True greatness blesses those many levels away.
Learn to party! Party? Yes! What good is greatness if you can’t enjoy it? And not just the final destination but also the entire journey. Be sure to stop along the way and relish in your movement. Celebrate small and large victories. This keeps the sprit high and the big mo rolling! Spend the money, buy the food and blow up the balloons – it’s time to celebrate!
Friday, September 26, 2008
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
THE THREE SKILLS OF "ORDINARY" GENIUS
A couple of weeks ago I wrote that "it's the little things" that make all the difference. Many people wrote to say how helpful that was and asked me to write more about it. I'm convinced that a great life is rarely built on a brilliant flash of inspiration or one profound insight. More often great lives are built by ordinary people, doing ordinary things, extraordinarily well. Do you remember the old cliché that even the rich and famous "put their pants on one leg at a time?" I've always loved that insight. It gives me a sense of power and freedom and boosts my self-esteem. It gives me a chance to be "just like" my heroes.
This week I read Stephen Ambrose' biography of President Eisenhower. Obviously, "Ike," was one of the great heroes of World War II and arguably one of our better presidents. But he wasn't "brilliant" in terms of IQ. He was in the middle of his class ("average") at West Point, and no one saw him as a unique talent. Ambrose makes the comment that if one fortuitous promotion that sent him to work in Washington had gone differently, "the world would never have heard of Col. Eisenhower." How true! And, in a wonderful way, how inspiring!
Eisenhower did have three great gifts, but they were "ordinary" gifts that you and I can learn and apply in our lives.
First, he worked very, very hard. He was up early, stayed late, immersed himself in each task until it was done right and on time. His "genius" was the "ordinary genius" of dedication, duty and discipline. I may not be able to copy that exactly, but I can certainly learn from it. I can do my best and appreciate the results of "out working the competition."
The second of Eisenhower's great skills was his ability to focus on things that mattered! Many of us work hard. In fact, I often argue that many of us work too hard because our time, our energy and our focus is on things that don't really matter. We "sweat the small stuff." Ike never did that. Even his critics acknowledged his gift for calmly assessing a situation and spotting the "leverage point" that would make all the difference.
Here's an example. For six months before D-Day, June 6th 1944, he made a point to meet with his chief meteorologist every single day. He knew that guns and ships and strategy were all important, but ultimately the invasion would depend on the weather and he wanted to assess the skills of his chief forecaster. In the end, on a stormy night with rain pelting against the windows, he made the decision to "go" because he trusted his weatherman. He knew he would get a 6-hour window of clearing weather and that was all he needed. The course of the war changed over-night because Ike focused on the weather and knew his meteorologists could be trusted.
Finally, Eisenhower insisted on choosing the right people and relying on them. He frequently refused to work with people if they were unreliable or ineffective. He wanted the best people around him. Notably, after giving the order to "go" on June 5th, Ike went to bed. There was literally nothing more for him to do! All the orders, all the staff work, all the plans were in capable hands and his work (for the moment) was done. He didn't try to do it all himself. He chose good people, delegated responsibility and trusted that the right things would be done, in the right way, at the right time.
For me, there is great hope in this! Eisenhower wasn't some unique genius beyond my ability to comprehend. To the contrary, much of his achievement came from knowing three basic skills that I (or anyone) can learn. He worked hard. He could identify the key leverage points. He chose to work and associate with the best people he could find, and he trusted them. I can do this, and so can you.
Quotes of the Week
"It only takes one person to change your life - you." -- Ruth Casey
"God gives talent, work transforms talent into genius." -- Anna Pavlova
"Change cannot be avoided... change provides the opportunity for innovation. It gives you the chance to demonstrate your creativity." -- Felice Jones
"Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is." -- Mary Anne Roadacher-Hershey
This week I read Stephen Ambrose' biography of President Eisenhower. Obviously, "Ike," was one of the great heroes of World War II and arguably one of our better presidents. But he wasn't "brilliant" in terms of IQ. He was in the middle of his class ("average") at West Point, and no one saw him as a unique talent. Ambrose makes the comment that if one fortuitous promotion that sent him to work in Washington had gone differently, "the world would never have heard of Col. Eisenhower." How true! And, in a wonderful way, how inspiring!
Eisenhower did have three great gifts, but they were "ordinary" gifts that you and I can learn and apply in our lives.
First, he worked very, very hard. He was up early, stayed late, immersed himself in each task until it was done right and on time. His "genius" was the "ordinary genius" of dedication, duty and discipline. I may not be able to copy that exactly, but I can certainly learn from it. I can do my best and appreciate the results of "out working the competition."
The second of Eisenhower's great skills was his ability to focus on things that mattered! Many of us work hard. In fact, I often argue that many of us work too hard because our time, our energy and our focus is on things that don't really matter. We "sweat the small stuff." Ike never did that. Even his critics acknowledged his gift for calmly assessing a situation and spotting the "leverage point" that would make all the difference.
Here's an example. For six months before D-Day, June 6th 1944, he made a point to meet with his chief meteorologist every single day. He knew that guns and ships and strategy were all important, but ultimately the invasion would depend on the weather and he wanted to assess the skills of his chief forecaster. In the end, on a stormy night with rain pelting against the windows, he made the decision to "go" because he trusted his weatherman. He knew he would get a 6-hour window of clearing weather and that was all he needed. The course of the war changed over-night because Ike focused on the weather and knew his meteorologists could be trusted.
Finally, Eisenhower insisted on choosing the right people and relying on them. He frequently refused to work with people if they were unreliable or ineffective. He wanted the best people around him. Notably, after giving the order to "go" on June 5th, Ike went to bed. There was literally nothing more for him to do! All the orders, all the staff work, all the plans were in capable hands and his work (for the moment) was done. He didn't try to do it all himself. He chose good people, delegated responsibility and trusted that the right things would be done, in the right way, at the right time.
For me, there is great hope in this! Eisenhower wasn't some unique genius beyond my ability to comprehend. To the contrary, much of his achievement came from knowing three basic skills that I (or anyone) can learn. He worked hard. He could identify the key leverage points. He chose to work and associate with the best people he could find, and he trusted them. I can do this, and so can you.
Quotes of the Week
"It only takes one person to change your life - you." -- Ruth Casey
"God gives talent, work transforms talent into genius." -- Anna Pavlova
"Change cannot be avoided... change provides the opportunity for innovation. It gives you the chance to demonstrate your creativity." -- Felice Jones
"Live with intention. Walk to the edge. Listen hard. Practice wellness. Play with abandon. Laugh. Choose with no regret. Do what you love. Live as if this is all there is." -- Mary Anne Roadacher-Hershey
Monday, September 22, 2008
HOW TO ASK FOR ANYTHING YOU WANT
One of life's fundamental truths states: Ask and you shall receive. Isn't that simple? Of course it is. The world responds to those who ask. Most people in this world, however, find themselves in settled lives, never really achieving or receiving what they hold in their dreams... because they just never ask.
There are many good reasons to ask, and the rewards are substantial. If you're not moving closer to what you really want, you probably aren't doing enough asking.
Reasons Why We Don't Ask
So, why do people stumble when they have an opportunity to ask? Five reasons, really:
Ignorance. Many of us don't know what to ask for. Either we don't know what is available to us because we have never been exposed to it, or we are so out of touch with ourselves that we no longer are able to perceive our real needs and wants. And, in many cases, we don't know who to ask, when to ask, or even HOW to ask.
Limiting and Inaccurate Beliefs.
Since our childhood, we've been programmed by our parents, and through schooling, religious training and even the media to STOP asking.
Fear. Having learned all about rejection, embarrassment, vulnerability and hurt in our childhood and early adult years, we find it easier to settle for less than deal with the fear that's resulted from these past experiences.
Low Self-Esteem. Most of us feel unworthy or too inadequate to create the kind of life we want. As a result, we don't believe our needs and wants are worth pursuing.
Pride. Many of us are convinced we need to do everything for ourselves, or we'll look foolish or lose respect among our family and peers.
Take Control!
The truth is, when you take control of your life by asking for what you want and need, you can accomplish anything your heart desires. No doubt, you know of people who seem to walk into any situation and any relationship expecting success. They achieve success again and again because they've learned - and acted on - one simple truth: You will reach your goals only with the help of others.
What are common characteristics shared between people who've mastered the art of asking?
They know what they want. They are clear about their vision, purpose and goals.
They believe that what they're asking for is very possible.
They are passionate about what they are requesting.
They act even when they're afraid or feel fear.
They learn from experience so that they become better "askers" with every ask.
They are persistent. If at first they don't receive, they ask, ask, ask until they do.
You can turn your life around, regardless of the obstacles you currently face. Get clear. Get passionate. Take a giant step past that fear. And if at first you don't succeed, take this minor setback as a signal to you . . . to ask again!
There are many good reasons to ask, and the rewards are substantial. If you're not moving closer to what you really want, you probably aren't doing enough asking.
Reasons Why We Don't Ask
So, why do people stumble when they have an opportunity to ask? Five reasons, really:
Ignorance. Many of us don't know what to ask for. Either we don't know what is available to us because we have never been exposed to it, or we are so out of touch with ourselves that we no longer are able to perceive our real needs and wants. And, in many cases, we don't know who to ask, when to ask, or even HOW to ask.
Limiting and Inaccurate Beliefs.
Since our childhood, we've been programmed by our parents, and through schooling, religious training and even the media to STOP asking.
Fear. Having learned all about rejection, embarrassment, vulnerability and hurt in our childhood and early adult years, we find it easier to settle for less than deal with the fear that's resulted from these past experiences.
Low Self-Esteem. Most of us feel unworthy or too inadequate to create the kind of life we want. As a result, we don't believe our needs and wants are worth pursuing.
Pride. Many of us are convinced we need to do everything for ourselves, or we'll look foolish or lose respect among our family and peers.
Take Control!
The truth is, when you take control of your life by asking for what you want and need, you can accomplish anything your heart desires. No doubt, you know of people who seem to walk into any situation and any relationship expecting success. They achieve success again and again because they've learned - and acted on - one simple truth: You will reach your goals only with the help of others.
What are common characteristics shared between people who've mastered the art of asking?
They know what they want. They are clear about their vision, purpose and goals.
They believe that what they're asking for is very possible.
They are passionate about what they are requesting.
They act even when they're afraid or feel fear.
They learn from experience so that they become better "askers" with every ask.
They are persistent. If at first they don't receive, they ask, ask, ask until they do.
You can turn your life around, regardless of the obstacles you currently face. Get clear. Get passionate. Take a giant step past that fear. And if at first you don't succeed, take this minor setback as a signal to you . . . to ask again!
Friday, September 19, 2008
5 TIPS FOR DEVELOPING POLICIES FOR YOUR BUSINESS
5 Tips for Developing Policies for Your Business
-Think ahead. Establish policies before you need them. Doing so helps avert crises and awkward situations, and helps solve problems before they arise.
-Determine what policies you need. Some you’ll want early in your business include a mission statement, as well as compensation, performance evaluation and employee policies.
-Get input from key employees, as well as from members of your advisory board, your board of directors, and/or your professional advisors and consultants.
-Communicate policies to everyone in your business.
-Review policies on a regular basis—once a year, for example—and revise them as necessary.
5 Tips for Effective Business Planning
-Clearly define your business idea and be able to succinctly articulate it. Know your mission.
-Examine your motives. Make sure that you have a passion for owning a business and for this particular business.
-Be willing to commit to the hours, discipline, continuous learning and the frustrations of owning your own business.
-Conduct a competitive analysis in your market, including products, prices, promotions, advertising, distribution, quality, service, and be aware of the outside influences that affect your business.
-Seek help from other small businesses, vendors, professionals, government agencies, employees, trade associations and trade shows. Be alert, ask questions, and visit your local SCORE office.
5 Tips for Making the Most of Your Business Plan
-Take the long view and do long-term planning. Map out where you want to be five years from now and how you plan to get there.
-Write the plan yourself. You will learn more about your business by doing so.
-Think of your plan as a living document. Review it regularly to make sure you are on track or to adjust it to market changes.
-Share the plan with others who can help you get where you want to go—such as lenders, key employees and advisors.
-Understand that you might pay a price in the short run to obtain long-term business growth and health
5 Tips for Using Colleges and Universities to Help Your Business
-Volunteer your company to be a business school case study. You’ll learn much about your company in the process and get good ideas for the future.Obtain management and technical assistance from one of more than 50 Small Business Development Centers.
-Check the U.SC#. Small Business Administration web site at for locations.
-Participate in special programs. Many colleges and universities sponsor venture capital forums, entrepreneurship centers and family business programs.
-Work with the business school to offer internships to graduate students.
-Find out what expertise is on a business school’s staff. You may find just the right person to hire as a consultant or serve on your board.
5 Tips on Budgeting
-Think of a budget as a useful tool—a written financial plan that helps you set goals and measure progress.
-Start by coming up with a sales revenue target. Make it your best estimate.
-Based on past experience, estimate your cost of goods sold (e.g., 70 percent of sales) and subtract it from the sales revenue to come up with your estimated gross margin.
-Forecast variable expenses (items such as travel and commissions that vary according to the level of sales) and fixed expenses (items like taxes and rent that stay the same, regardless of sales). Subtract these expenses from your gross margin to arrive at your estimated net income (before federal taxes).
-Break your annual budget into quarters and monitor your progress every three months to detect problems and make corrections.
-Think ahead. Establish policies before you need them. Doing so helps avert crises and awkward situations, and helps solve problems before they arise.
-Determine what policies you need. Some you’ll want early in your business include a mission statement, as well as compensation, performance evaluation and employee policies.
-Get input from key employees, as well as from members of your advisory board, your board of directors, and/or your professional advisors and consultants.
-Communicate policies to everyone in your business.
-Review policies on a regular basis—once a year, for example—and revise them as necessary.
5 Tips for Effective Business Planning
-Clearly define your business idea and be able to succinctly articulate it. Know your mission.
-Examine your motives. Make sure that you have a passion for owning a business and for this particular business.
-Be willing to commit to the hours, discipline, continuous learning and the frustrations of owning your own business.
-Conduct a competitive analysis in your market, including products, prices, promotions, advertising, distribution, quality, service, and be aware of the outside influences that affect your business.
-Seek help from other small businesses, vendors, professionals, government agencies, employees, trade associations and trade shows. Be alert, ask questions, and visit your local SCORE office.
5 Tips for Making the Most of Your Business Plan
-Take the long view and do long-term planning. Map out where you want to be five years from now and how you plan to get there.
-Write the plan yourself. You will learn more about your business by doing so.
-Think of your plan as a living document. Review it regularly to make sure you are on track or to adjust it to market changes.
-Share the plan with others who can help you get where you want to go—such as lenders, key employees and advisors.
-Understand that you might pay a price in the short run to obtain long-term business growth and health
5 Tips for Using Colleges and Universities to Help Your Business
-Volunteer your company to be a business school case study. You’ll learn much about your company in the process and get good ideas for the future.Obtain management and technical assistance from one of more than 50 Small Business Development Centers.
-Check the U.SC#. Small Business Administration web site at for locations.
-Participate in special programs. Many colleges and universities sponsor venture capital forums, entrepreneurship centers and family business programs.
-Work with the business school to offer internships to graduate students.
-Find out what expertise is on a business school’s staff. You may find just the right person to hire as a consultant or serve on your board.
5 Tips on Budgeting
-Think of a budget as a useful tool—a written financial plan that helps you set goals and measure progress.
-Start by coming up with a sales revenue target. Make it your best estimate.
-Based on past experience, estimate your cost of goods sold (e.g., 70 percent of sales) and subtract it from the sales revenue to come up with your estimated gross margin.
-Forecast variable expenses (items such as travel and commissions that vary according to the level of sales) and fixed expenses (items like taxes and rent that stay the same, regardless of sales). Subtract these expenses from your gross margin to arrive at your estimated net income (before federal taxes).
-Break your annual budget into quarters and monitor your progress every three months to detect problems and make corrections.
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