For the past two years, I’ve been asking local business leaders what they’ve learned—from other people, specific situations, or their hobbies—and how they’ve used those lessons. They graciously and honestly talked about their successes and failures, their passions and professions. In the process, I learned some valuable lessons of my own.
“I learned that where you come from is more important than where you’re going. Many successful men and women come from humble roots, but they were fortunate to have parents and others who instilled in them honesty, integrity, and a sense of responsibility. The lessons they bring to the boardroom are ones they learned at the dinner table or on the family farm.
“I learned that people are multi-dimensional. That CEO you find intimidating and a little arrogant might exhibit a softer side when he’s tending his flowers or playing with his granddaughter. And that senior executive who is so serious and conservative in the office might be hell on wheels on the racetrack.
“I learned that success isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be. If you focus all your time and energy on climbing the corporate ladder or building a business, you might do so at the expense of relationships with family and friends.
“I learned that you can learn more by losing than by winning, and that sharing the burden is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you micromanage people, you stifle their creativity. Sometimes your employees perform better when you’re not in the office.
“I also learned that getting fired can be a blessing, giving you the opportunity to explore options you might otherwise have ignored, and that can point you in a new and exciting direction.
“I also learned to be grateful for the journey, no matter where it takes you or how long it lasts. And I learned that you can learn something from everyone you meet—if you just listen.”
