While seeking my WHY, I became obsessed with slogans. My insta-life friends like to share quotes about living a full life and overcoming adversity. And now we’re all decorating our space with trendy signs. We just hung up a shabby-chic billboard that says, “Life is a lake. Jump right in!” — a fitting message for us at this point in our lives, but mostly it is a cute piece of wall décor.
In search of my own slogan and to understand my vision, I decided to write down the first 50 words that came to me; words that I connected with. This was a quick and enlightening exercise. The first word to appear on the page was INSPIRE.
A few years ago I met an inspirational author and speaker, a guy I had stumbled upon via TED Talks. I spotted this fellow in a hotel lobby in Vegas. I shouted to him, “Simon!” like we were old friends. He and his companion turned to me and I introduced myself. I told him that I loved his message, thanked him for his work and conveyed that he was making a positive impact on all who crossed his path.
Simon Sinek is a gracious, modern day hero teaching fundamental principles of caring for each other, especially in the workplace. His theme is beautifully simple and forged on the back of the token he placed in my hand as he said, “Please take this and then pass it on to another. It is a reminder to take action and inspire others to do the same.”
I selfishly held on to the coin for more than a year before giving it to Shea Carlson — an amazing builder who embodies kindness and caring for his employees, family and friends.
For more Simon Sinek check out one of the top ten most watched TED Talks, How Great Leaders Inspire Action or pick up one of his books: Start With Why, Leaders Eat Last and Together is Better.
Dana J Creative 