Have you ever wondered, “How in the world did that person become so successful?” She’s outspoken. He flaunts his wealth and talks down to people. She thinks she’s so brilliant. These people get appointed to boards only because of their wealth, yet actually believe they were appointed due to their brilliant insights. The moment they start talking at these meetings, everyone just rolls their eyes.
It is in these moments that we really get to practice our servant leadership habits. Many will aspire to be a servant leader when they are in the company of like-minded people who share your perspective of people and the world. However, we are challenged when we start thinking, “Why them? Why not me instead?” For most of us, the temptation is too great, and we wish we had their life or their money. We think of all the good we would do and all the money we could spend.
Jealousy creeps into our thinking and we can’t help imagine what life would be like if we had this and that — danger zone. As business people, we have to guard against wanting more and more and never being content with what we have, and more important, with whom we determine to share or help with our blessings. Another lesson from life — what you see is only a small fraction of what is really happening. In most cases, if we really knew the pain of others we would be more content with what we have.
So, stop wondering and instead be more curious of what you might learn from their stories that will help you become a better servant leader to your family, friends, and co-workers. Emerson wrote, “Every man I meet is my superior in some way, and in that I learn from him.” Embrace life and the people who have been brought across your path to help you help others.
Here are a few principles from Dale Carnegie that are grounded in fundamental truth that might help you this week:
- Fill your mind with thoughts of peace, courage, health, and hope.
- Count your blessings — not your troubles
- Try to profit from your losses.
- Create happiness for others.
- Do the very best that you can.
- Put enthusiasm into your work.
How has the Midweek Mentor helped or inspired you? What topics would you like to be addressed in the future? Please take a moment to let me know.
Onward!