It is our choices … that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.
- J. K. Rowling (Harry Potter and The Chamber of Secrets)
When my son shared that quote with Thomas and I from the backseat of a long car ride home, it sparked a conversation about success. Towards the end of the conversation, Braedon said somethings I will never forget.
“Well,” he stated so matter-of-factly, “When I’m successful I want people to look at me and say ‘Wow. I am so happy for Braedon. He totally deserves it!’ not ‘Oh no. Braedon was so mean! He doesn’t deserve anything!’”
Then he, our wise old owl, mentioned a story about an earthquake that hit California. He told me all about how there was all this horrible stuff going on all over the place. Buildings crashing down. Cars smashing into one another. Fires.
“There were really mean people who pushed others out of the way to get to safety. They were knocking everyone else over, only thinking about themselves.” I held my breath. “But then there were these other people, Mom, who stopped everything and helped people up. They carried people who had broken legs. They even helped lost children find their moms and dads.” Exhale.
When you look at how you are running your business, or living your life, which one are you? Are you dashing to your finish line at any cost? Or are you leading with your heart?
Know this (based on my own experience): it is never too late to stop elbowing people in the back, and start reaching out a hand instead.
