Gratitude Filled Leadership (GFL)

Mentors and Heroes

GFL starts with reflecting on those who have been influencers in your own personal road to success. They could be anyone; someone who led you, a teammate, someone you led, or even a child who's courage was an inspiration to you (thinking Make-A-Wish, yet there are many others). They all start by touching something in your heart and then leaving a legacy in what they brought to your mindset and finally your values.

One such person was "Ox". I'll use his call sign until I can connect with him. I'll always remember him chewing on a cigar, sipping some bourbon, and laughing that soft but ever so contagious laugh. Ox loved to revel in something we had just done, were in the process of doing (no sipping then), or were in the stages of planning. His line I'll never forget was:

"It only costs a nickel more to go first class". Simple as that

Sometimes it meant a little finer cigar or a better whiskey. But the true message it put forth was that sometimes our next endeavor may present the option of greater costs, greater effort or greater commitment. And usually it meant all three. As leaders in this highly competitive world we often seek the lowest bid and fastest route to get something done. I like to step back, hesitate and think of what Ox said before I make a decision. And I share my thoughts with my team before we go forward. What will be the value added by that "nickel" more? Do we have the commitment necessary to reach the pinnacle of the success pyramid?

Ox, thank you sir for your wit and your wisdom. Your memory makes me smile and your words have made me better.

Next time, another of my icons in the Gratitude Filled Leadership journey. Who are the influencers for whom you are thankful? Why?