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As we have all learned through some of life’s harder lessons – whether from helping a friend through a tough time, coaching a little league team, or working on a critical project – giving our best always gets the best results.
The moment we totally commit ourselves and begin giving 100 percent, a certain momentum develops. People naturally gravitate to those who are fully committed and start working in the same direction. Total commitment results in a certain magical boldness – a boldness that has magnetism and power.
Andrew Carnegie said, “The average person puts only 25 percent of his energy and ability into his work. The world takes off its hat to those who put in more than 50 percent of their capacity and stands on its head for those few and far between souls who devote 100 percent.” We compete against our own potential every day.
I personally experienced the power of 100 percent commitment (and lack thereof!) when I wrestled with publishing my first book for two years. I was consulting and writing leadership articles, so I thought it might also be time to write a book. I went through all the motions, from working with agents to sending proposals to writers’ conferences, but I never seemed to turn the corner from being an aspiring writer to a published author. There always seemed to be an obstacle, although I now realize it was a result of my less-than-full commitment to my goal.
One obstacle after another, for two years and counting. Then one day, I was at a client’s office. My defining moment of commitment came when I saw a big box filled with practical handbooks sitting on my client’s desk.
I quickly flipped through one of them and jotted down the publisher’s name as I said to myself, “I can do this!” My moment of commitment turned into action, and with the incredibly gracious support of the publisher, I had my first book in print six months later. I was able to envision possibilities that I could only see through fully committed eyes.
Our commitment to our teams can have the same transforming effect. Committed leadership inspires committed teams.
Even with 100 percent commitment, leadership is not always a smooth flight. If we want to pilot our teams to full engagement, we must understand we can’t just kick back in a comfy first-class seat. Now we have responsibility for not only ourselves but also for the safety and success of our teams. Our teams depend on us to set a good course, keep them posted on our progress and make smart decisions.
Jumping into the pilot’s seat brings many more responsibilities than privileges. But those defined by their 100 percent commitment reap the rewards of flying high above the rest!
“7 Moments... is concise and compelling. By applying Lee’s practical and inspiring insights, the reader takes a big step toward achieving excellence. The return on investment for this quick-read book is measured by leadership and personal success.”
– Roger T. Staubach, NFL Hall of Fame quarterback, Dallas Cowboys