Legacy is movement – it’s not what you have done but what you SET IN MOTION. It is not what you leave behind but WHO you leave behind.
Tan Seow How
Have you been in a situation where you need to get something done, but it required you to do it yourself or find someone you completely trust to do it on your behalf as you would? Money alone wouldn’t solve this – it needs someone with not just the competence but also the discretion and confidentiality the task requires, along with a personal commitment to getting it done. If you haven’t been in this scenario, sooner or later you will find yourself there.
Having reliable people in your circle doesn’t happen overnight – it is developed over time. People do it for different reasons, but you will find a common thread amongst the most influential people – a fiercely loyal and committed following. This loyalty is a function of a disposition that chooses to invest in people – doing it early, doing it continually. It’s the investment in people, when we can, as much as we can, and as often as we can, that makes the difference over time and pays off when you least expect it.
I encourage you to invest in people – do it early, do it continually. Our greatest assets are the people around us. You can get started by reflecting on and taking action on these three questions:
- Who are you investing in? Continual investments lead to continual returns, though not always from the same place. Avoid placing obligations on others.
- Who are you surrounding yourself with? Be selective and very intentional. Anyone who cannot be around you at all times should not be around you at any time. Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant both learned that superstars win games, but great teams win championships. You will rise or fall to the quality of your ‘team’ – period (or periodT,
). - Who are you invested in? Commitment, like love, should not be concealed. Let those you are invested in know you care, and you are committed to them.
Zig Ziglar said, “You don’t build a business. You build people, and people build the business.” I agree, and I believe it extends beyond business. Replace “business” with anything you desire to build – perhaps a nation? An organization? A family? How might this ‘people investment’ philosophy help?
I look forward to reading your reflections and feedback.
Yours in possibilities,
TKO