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Step out of your comfort zone
A few weeks ago daredevil Nik Wallenda walked – untethered – atop Orlando’s 400-foot high Ferris wheel – as it was spinning. This is the same guy who traversed a tightrope stretched across the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and between two Chicago skyscrapers. In an interview he said he wants to be an inspiration for…
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For long-term success, give up these detrimental traits
Success isn’t always about dominating the landscape. Sometimes, to be successful, you have to be prepared to give up some counterproductive behaviors that are holding you back – and you may not even realize you’re guilty. Old habits are hard to break. And if you don’t even realize that you are practicing some of these…
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Breaking down the meaning of leadership
U.S. President and five-star General Dwight Eisenhower used a simple device to illustrate the art of leadership. Laying an ordinary piece of string on a table, he’d illustrate how you could easily pull it in any direction. “However, try and push it,” he cautioned, “and it won’t go anywhere. It’s just that way when it…
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More street smart ideas to drive success
A man went to a rabbi and asked, “Rabbi, you’re a wise man, how is it that you’re wise?” The rabbi replied, “Study and hard work.” Then the man asked, “What made you study and work hard?” The rabbi replied, “A lot of experience.” Then the man asked, “And how’d you get a lot of…
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A great sense of humor makes great sense
We’ve all heard that “laughter is the best medicine.” It makes people happy and links us together. Humor and laughter strengthen our immune system, boost our energy by destroying boredom and keep stress at bay. Humor is equally beneficial at work, as it increases creativity, enhances communications, builds morale and minimizes workplace conflicts and tension.…
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Take charge of your attitude
A mother was ready for a few minutes of relaxation after a long and demanding day. However, her young daughter had other plans for her mother’s time. “Read me a story, Mommy,” the little girl pleaded. “Give Mommy a few minutes to relax. Then I’ll be happy to read you a story,” the mother replied. …
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Try brainstorming to remedy cloudy thinking
An electric utility in the northwestern U.S. had problems with ice building up on its power transmission lines during the winter. The company had to send linesmen out to climb the pylons that held the lines to clear off the ice and snow. It was difficult and dangerous work, especially as bears sometimes wandered close…
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Foster respect to improve results
One of my favorite old comedians, the late Rodney Dangerfield, was famous for his line, “I get no respect.” Then he would usually add a line like, “I remember when I was a kid and played hide-and- seek. The other kids wouldn’t even look for me.” If you want those who work with you to…
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Practice, practice, practice – perfectly
Everyone thinks practice makes perfect. That’s wrong. Legendary football coach Vince Lombardi said you have to add one word – “Perfect practice makes perfect.” I heard a man complaining that he had ten years of experience at work but never got promoted. Here’s the real question. Did he have ten years of experience? Or did…
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Business lessons from George Washington
As a history major, I am intrigued by the origins of our great country. George Washington is a logical place to start. This week we celebrate his birthday with Abraham Lincoln’s as Presidents Day – the third Monday in February. But what do we really know about this founding father who led our country through the…