Boom!

1. Choose to Be a Player, Not a Bystander

"On the field of life, we are all called to be players and to actively engage in winning the game."

Players take charge. They bring energy, passion, and commitment to their work. Unlike bystanders who wait for direction or complain about circumstances, players proactively shape their environment and outcomes. They understand that leadership is not about position, but influence.

Players focus on what they can control. Instead of fixating on obstacles, they look for opportunities to make a difference. They ask themselves:

• What part of the problem do I own?
• How can I contribute to the solution?
• What about me needs to change?

Players also refuse to sell out their dreams and aspirations. They align their work with their values and passions, finding ways to express their authentic selves even in challenging environments.

2. Take Accountability: There Is No "They"

"The biggest problem and the real enemy we face is ourselves."

Reject victimhood. Blaming others for our circumstances or waiting for someone else to fix problems keeps us stuck. True empowerment comes from recognizing that we are responsible for our choices and outcomes.

Banish tribalism. Organizations suffer when departments or groups see themselves as separate from or superior to others. Break down silos by:

• Seeking to understand others' perspectives
• Collaborating across boundaries
• Focusing on shared goals

Expect no more from your boss than yourself. Leaders aren't perfect and don't have all the answers. Take initiative to solve problems and improve processes without waiting for top-down direction.

3. Serve Others Over Self-Interest

"The world is not here to make you happy; we are here to serve the world."

Find meaning through contribution. True fulfillment comes not from self-indulgence, but from using our talents to make a positive difference for others. Look for ways to add value and enrich the lives of colleagues, customers, and community.

Contagious service. When we genuinely serve others, it inspires them to do the same. This creates a virtuous cycle that transforms organizational culture. Examples of extraordinary service:

• Going above and beyond for customers in need
• Mentoring colleagues
• Volunteering skills to support company initiatives

Focus on responsibilities, not rights. Instead of fixating on what we're owed, consider how we can give more. This shift in mindset increases engagement and creates more opportunities for growth and impact.

4. Focus Forward, Not Backward

"Your future isn't in the rearview mirror."

Feed the good wolf. We have a choice in every moment to focus on the positive or negative. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude and possibility thinking creates momentum and attracts opportunities.

Nourish new ideas. Instead of reflexively saying "Yeah, but..." to novel suggestions, ask "What if...?" and "How might we...?" This opens up creative possibilities and encourages innovation.

Give complaining a permanent rest. Whining about circumstances drains energy and solves nothing. Instead:

• Look for solutions
• Express appreciation for what's working
• Take action to improve situations within your control

5. Play to Your Genius: Make Your Work Matter

"To know that our work counts is to know that we count."

Find your sweet spot. Align your natural talents, passions, and opportunities to contribute. This creates a sense of flow and increases both satisfaction and performance.

Redefine mundane work. Even routine tasks can become meaningful when connected to a larger purpose or approached creatively. Look for ways to innovate and add value in every role.

Create cool projects. Transform assignments by:

• Venturing into uncharted territory
• Moving with speed and momentum
• Leaving a lasting legacy
• Attracting other passionate people

6. Get Results: Success Comes from Making a Difference

"No one is paying you today for what you did yesterday."

Declare war on complacency. Continuously look for ways to improve and add value. Comfort zones are danger zones in a rapidly changing world.

Be a junction box for knowledge. Actively seek out, synthesize, and share information that creates new insights and solves problems. Make yourself indispensable through your ability to turn data into actionable knowledge.

Tell people what they need to hear. Have the courage to speak truth to power, challenge assumptions, and offer constructive feedback. Organizations need employees who will surface important issues and propose solutions.

7. Risk More to Gain More: Change Requires Courage

"If you think you are going to do something big and exciting without fear and doubt, and without worrying that you're making the wrong decision about a hundred times a day, you're being unrealistic."

Step into the breach. Recognize moments of opportunity to make a difference, even if they feel uncomfortable. Small acts of courage can have big impacts.

Embrace adventure. A life without risk is a life half-lived. Push beyond your comfort zone to discover your true capabilities and create meaningful change.

Face your fears. Courage isn't the absence of fear, but the ability to act despite it. Strategies for stepping through fear:

• Find a bigger "YES" that overshadows your fears
• Let truth strengthen your resolve
• Take charge of your thoughts
• Jettison the voice of condemnation
• Expect no guarantees

Remember: To live without risk is to risk not living. The greatest regrets often come not from failure, but from failing to try.

Last updated: July 19, 2024