The leadership principle this week seems rather obvious, but the high number of failed start-ups in the last several years tells us that not all understand this idea. One out of three students I teach says he wants to be rich when he grows up. I always tell the kids that I’ll never be rich because I’m always spending all of my money on the school… on them. It’s my pleasure to do so! I’m so glad God has given me enough money to be able to give some to others.
It is our responsibility to teach our children that the greatest joy comes not from pursuing wealth, but from providing something (a service or good) that people need. This is literally the recipe for success. Find something people want and do a good job giving it to them. They will spread the word, and your business will grow. This will, in turn, give you enough money to get what you want.
I see two areas that keep people from employing this simple idea. The first is an inability to see how one’s very best effort is what a customer wants. It’s not enough anymore just to have a recognizable brand. People expect high quality from a company or person who enjoys a widely-recognized brand. No longer is the brand itself enough. Dissatisfied customers take their complaints to the Internet. Get enough of those, and soon there is no business. I’m not sure, having seen how shoddy work from some of my students is, that excellence is a goal for many.
The second block has to do with being content. We have got to teach our kids how little they need to be truly happy. Most love the anticipation of the next acquisition more than the actual item itself.
As we have learned as owners of this school, one can give a quality service and still not become rich. We’re enjoying so many successes, though. When it comes down to it, this is really what we want. Sure, we’d love to be able to afford more, but truthfully (for me, at least), most of that more would be for the school kids. My husband and I have two children who are happily married and employed; my parents are still gainfully employed and healthy.; all of us own homes; and we’re able to pay all of our bills pretty comfortably. I’m content!
The key that we have to teach our kids is that joy comes when they provide a service that is truly needed well. Every interaction becomes a potential blessing!
- Michelle