Category: Motivation

What’s the fourth most important lesson I learned during 2017?

Unbreakable Code – There were lots of problems this year with breaching of personal data – and as one who twice was the victim of identity theft, I assure you it takes a lot of time to recover. So, I decided to change all our passwords to a single one: the last seven digits of pi. Actually, we started using a multi-factor authentication password manager that links to all of our financial accounts. If you haven’t done this… might be time to consider.

Now the fifth most important lesson I learned this year:

Story Teller – One of the real characters in college football past was the coach of Texas Tech… Spike Dykes, who died in April at 79. That reminded me of a story he told at a Southwest Conference kickoff luncheon: “My daughter called me to the phone saying, ‘Dad, Sports Illustrated wants to talk to you.’ I banged my knee scrambling into the room for the big national interview. I said, ‘This is Spike Dykes.’ The person on the other end said, ‘Mr. Dykes, for only $29.99, you can have a full-year subscription…'”

We’re halfway there. The sixth most important lesson of 2017:

Customer Joy – We use our Weber Grill a lot… and the ‘flavorizer’ bars that reflect the flames downward were starting to erode after 10 years. I called Weber to see what we could do. “You’re out of warranty, but I can send you new ones for half price including shipping. Will that be ok?” Of course! I won’t buy another Weber grill anytime soon, yet the CSR went out of his way to take care of me. Wish the places we spend money year-round would consider treating us that well.

Here is the seventh most important lesson I learned this year:

Clear Direction – A friend shared how learning to fly helped him better communicate with employees. The cockpit conversation went something like this. Trainer: “It’s time for you to take control.” Student: “OK, I’m going to take control.” Trainer: “Yes, take control.” Student: “I’m taking control.” That many rounds may seem overkill; however, remember… people aren’t necessarily ready to receive information when you’re ready to give it.

What’s the eighth most important lesson I learned during 2017?

Unique Insight – The VP of sales for a health care supply company told me the one thing he asks every candidate during an interview: “‘I love to win’ or ‘I hate to lose’. Which are you?” He said it’s not about the choice; it’s the level of passion exhibited during the response.