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Rethinking Success
Tom Doescher
On June 8, Doescher Advisors was honored to have Doug Holladay, author of Rethinking Success, make a presentation to the Flint Business Executives Forum via Zoom. Holladay was actually in Manhattan, speaking with a group of successful business owners/CEOs, and stepped out of that meeting to spend some time and share his thoughts with us. I’ve had the pleasure of hearing him on several occasions, and I always find his message challenging and thought-provoking. This time was no exception.
Here are four major takeaways and/or homework assignments he gave us:
1. Personally and/or professionally, you’re either having trouble, are just exiting trouble, or you’ll be entering trouble soon. To support his observation, Holladay quoted several sources, including the Bible, where Jesus said: “In this world, you will have trouble.” In other words, since trouble is inevitable, be prepared to deal with it and don’t be surprised when it happens.
2. Be your imperfect self. Take off your mask. Don’t try and pretend you’re someone else. Holladay provided several compelling stories to support his advice.
3. Holladay says he’s frequently asked, “What should I do with my life?” He answers that question by saying: First, think about what you liked to do when you were young; then, think about what other people said you were good at. Design a life that includes those interests.
4. Finally, Holladay challenged us to think about our moms and dads, and had us write down their individual strengths and weaknesses. Wait a day or two, then circle the traits that apply to you. Follow up with actions that will help you become the best version of yourself.
I believe Holladay’s book is a must-read for all business owners/CEOs. After you finish reading it and want more, check out his organization, PathNorth (pathnorth.com). You may have heard some of these thoughts before, but Holladay definitely manages to get my attention every time.