Happy New Year!
I’m pretty sure most of you will not be reading this newsletter in December, but for the record, it’s still 2012 here in Chicago as I’m typing. I really didn’t mean to wait until the last minute to get in touch with you this month, but this month has been crazy busy.
For this final communication of the year, I wanted to talk briefly about 2 ideas that had a major impact on my thinking over the past months. Maybe they’re not new to you, but I think they’re worth rehashing.
Let’s go!
The Necessity of (Servant) Leadership
People generally don’t like to be told what to do. But, people need leadership. They crave it.
Leaders create a vision for the future. They inspire others and give them courage to move forward. They know (or at least seem to know) just a little more than the rest of us and provide lantern-light so we can follow their path.
You have to start thinking about your business in terms of leadership. We’ve talked about becoming an authority in your field and demonstrating your expertise. Leadership goes one step further. Your customers and prospects are looking for someone to help them do what they already want to do. The person or business which can eliminate the risk they’re facing, help them make tough decisions with confidence and show them the best path they can take to get to get what they want in life will gain unconquerable loyalty from those whom they serve.
The kind of leadership I’m talking about is based on just that: serving people. You’re leading them because you care. Leading because you can honestly help them achieve something great. Believe it or not, making their best interests your priority will pay off for you. As the late Zig Ziglar said, “You can get everything in life you want if you will just help enough other people get what they want.”
“Didn’t Come Here to Read”
Rumor has it that during the World Series in 1957, Yogi Berra, catcher for the New York Yankees, was trying to distract Hank Aaron during a crucial at-bat. Well, Tony Evans tells the story better than me. Check out this 1-minute video –> http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=0a3XygWsHEI
You have to know what you’re here for. What’s your purpose? Who is the audience you’re called to lead and serve? That’s really where business success starts.
If there’s any area I’ve struggled with this year, it’s right here. Knowing and being consistent with my “why” has been a challenge I need to tackle better in the new year.
Thanks for spending 2012 with me. I would love to hear from you, and I’d love to connect with you on social media.
As always, feel free to let me know if there’s anything I can do for you.