Walk Off Winning

19True Success

I have a small yet powerful exercise I do quite frequently. Whether I am speaking to an organization about leadership or engaging in a one-on-one conversation, I find it fascinating to ask people about their idea of true success. I ask this question to get an immediate response—I want the first thought that comes to mind. Most of the responses go something like this:

• “I want to have enough money to retire and take care of my family.”
• “I hope to be able to send my kids to a great college.”
• “I want to provide my family with a great place to live and allow us to travel to expand their experiences.”
• “I would love to be on TV and in the movies.”

I look for a quick response because it is usually followed up with what I label a guilty conscience answer:

• “But most important is the health of my family, and happiness.”

Naturally, we all want our family and ourselves to be healthy and happy. That is really what we are trying to get to when we strive to be successful. But what this means is that most people associate health and happiness, or success, with money, possessions, and fame, which is perfectly okay. Who wouldn't be happy with a stress-free lifestyle because finances were not a concern? But as we outlined earlier, focusing on money as the path to success usually drives a leader down the path of a dictator, for short-lived gains. This is not sustainable when it comes to a strong program or organization.

Leadership will serve as a guide to long-term success, and ...