I am amazed how much pain it takes to cause changes in behavior. Warnings and headlines stimulate intrigue, at best. Examples are interesting but do not always generate empathy or activity. By default, there is often a selfish belief that we are in some way special or exempt.
Personal or professional, most leaders realize that a strong foundation, consistency and reinforced values are solid platforms but none can holistically determine the final attitudes, habits and ultimately, individual success. In the end, everyone must choose who we become and what we represent in the world.
If you find yourself frustrated by this circumstance, check yourself. It helps to examine personal credibility, the quality of your own leadership, habits and your ability as an influencer. All of these tie back to the choices that put you where you are and the view from that position can have a direct impact on your happiness.
A good counter-measure to complacency and indifference is inspiration. This fuels motivation, which enables change and one of the more inspiring things in the world is progress. A business colleague of mine once said, “Life is a game but if you’re going to play, keep score.”
How much of what you do and represent each day really matters to others?
