I bought moonshine today to give as a gift. I’m not talking about the kind of moonshine they would make and transport on the Dukes of Hazard but a premium one; a nutty, cinnamon and pumpkin laced delicious concoction. I spent more on it than probably any bottle of alcohol I’ve ever purchased but I felt good doing it. Why?
Why do your colleagues and customers engage with you every day? Out of all of the choices that they can make, why you? Some of the answers for me are tied up in the reason I put out the big bucks for the moonshine.
What does leadership have to do with moonshine?
It’s craft: Go into any liquor store and the shelves are lined with choices. Most of the time I don’t know what to buy so I just go for whatever one isn’t the cheapest or the most expensive. I’m stuck buying on price. What sets you apart aside from your title? What makes you stand out from the pack? Starting today you need to stop aspiring to “be” the next Steve Jobs like millions of other people. There is nothing unique that sets you apart when you’re focused on mirroring someone else’s leadership style. Why should you be promoted over someone else? Why should you be hired? Hard to tell if you never break from the pack of wanna-be’s. Never forget that you have everything you need to be a great leader and you are definitely more than a wanna be. You are like a craft version of an amazing leader. Your life and professional experiences shaped who you are today and differentiates you from other leaders. When you are truly yourself, your passion, caring, vision and leadership all shine more brightly.
Small biz with big dreams: I bought the gift from a small start up site that sells premium craft brands only. Sometimes a hefty shipping fee deters me from clicking the purchase button but I connected with their brand message. I got a good feeling not only about the product but also about the company and I sincerely want them to succeed. Leaders support the dreams of others not because there is something in it for them, but because they are passionate about making others successful.
It was made with love: Just reading the product description, I can tell that it wasn’t a five minute process to throw it together and get it on the market. Honestly, I’m amazed that it’s as cheap as is it is given all that goes into it! Leaders also talk through stories and communicate the value of a project or a program. Communicating openly, honestly and frequently helps people understand the big picture. When people know that their work has meaning, they give more!
The joy is in the giving: I bought the moonshine because I know that the gift recipient will love it. I also know that he’s going to share it with others and spread the joy. Leaders know that everything that they do defines their legacy. Pay it forward or stand alone.
I raise a virtual glass to you! Every day that you decide to break the frame and be your own unique version of pumpkin spice moonshine you are making your mark on the world.
ACTION:
Start a chain reaction: Go out of your way today to tell one person what you appreciate about them and what makes them special.
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