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Against popular opinion, becoming indispensable in the workplace is easier and more achievable than ever before. In fact, you can become indispensable by cultivating the essential qualities of an excellent employee. Throughout this book, I have listed the most common qualities among those who have achieved great success in business. These attributes are time tested and will work for you if you implement them into your everyday work life. This list of qualities is not exhaustive by any means, but it lays the foundation for personal achievement in any endeavor.

I have written this book to provide for you the necessary momentum to press beyond the mediocrity that may be holding back the wonderful future you desire. All of us must fight against the spirit of mediocrity. It attempts to stop us by telling us that we have done enough and don’t need to pay such a great price to achieve our dreams.

Every boss, supervisor, and employer is more than willing to promote someone who has rightfully earned it. For many years, promotion has gone to the person who has been there the longest regardless of his production. In fact, he may even be mediocre at best, yet he is the one promoted because there is no one better. What about you? You can change this trend; you can alter the curve by choosing to become an excellent employee.

Don’t worry about what other co-workers say or what they think about you. You are not assigned to please them nor do they sign your paycheck. You are employed to be the best employee you can become regardless if others follow or agree. There is nothing wrong with living at a higher standard.

In fact, it is necessary if you want to achieve success in the workplace. Sure you may feel pressured to compromise, but the benefits of being the best employee far outweigh the consequences.

Please understand, I am not referring to nor am I encouraging competition in its original meaning. You are not out to defeat the other employees in your workplace. You are on a team and must help others grow.

Don’t measure yourself against others. You are competing against yourself, not others. You are not trying to defeat your counterparts or purposely trying to make them look bad. Always measure yourself against your own standard and strive to surpass that level each and every day. Stay consistent and you will gain the attention of your employer. Once you gain his attention, you are guaranteed promotion. So allow me to take you through the 20 everyday qualities you must possess to enjoy success at work.

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Chapter 1

Love What You Do

“Work Is Love Made Visible.”

- Kahlil Gibran

There is no substitute for devoting yourself to what you do. There is a longing in all employees to do something they love. Unfortunately, many follow their pocketbook rather than their heart. And although they make good money, they are discontent at their job. Money only brings temporary happiness. It doesn’t fill the inner void of purpose. Purpose and passion go hand in hand. If your job’s only purpose is to make you rich, then that job will not bring you any lasting fulfillment.

Many have labeled me a “workaholic” or a “type A personality,” but I disagree. I don’t work. I am devoted to my assignment. I live with passion and express it in everything I do. Sure, there are tasks I don’t necessarily enjoy, but the purpose behind the task carries me through. I did not choose what I do for the money; it chose me. In return, I chose it because I am in love with helping people succeed. I am passionate about helping others achieve their destiny.

Do you do what brings you energy? Do you wake up and want to go to work on Monday? Research shows that approximately 95% of employees do not enjoy their job. They stay because of convenience, salary, or fringe benefits. Nevertheless, such motives do not satisfy your longing to fulfill a purpose. The money may bring you a better house, but it won’t make a happy home. You may have nice clothes, but your wardrobe won’t satisfy you. Although you may move up the corporate ladder, you’ll soon find out the ladder leans on the wrong building! Wanting to do what you do is important to your success. Now, I understand that we must go through seasons in life, especially in our earlier years when we don’t have the job of our dreams, but we still can move in the direction of what we want to do. Consequently, you may have to endure seasons of doing things you don’t enjoy. Just make sure it is a means to an end, an end in which there’s a lifelong purpose, not just an income.

Ask yourself this question: “If every job paid the same wage, which job would I choose?” Answering this question will free you from money’s influence and allow you to discover what it is you truly love to do.

You still may say, “I don’t know what I love.” That’s understandable, so answer these questions to start discovering the right direction.

• If you could do one thing all day at work, what would it be?

• If you could do any job or full-time activity without pay, what would it be?

• What type of work or activity gives you the greatest joy and satisfaction?

• For what would you like to be known?

Doing what you love is your choice. No one can make you do anything. If you don’t like what you do and you continue simply because of money, begin a pursuit of what you want to do. It will take time, but even a one thousand mile journey starts with the first step.

One final reason men and women do not do what they want is fear - fear of failure - fear of not making enough money - fear of the unfamiliar. The only way to overcome fear is to face it. The giant named FEAR always seems more terrible than he really is. Run toward your giant and face him head on.

Do what you love, and your life will be fulfilled. Go after your dreams. Live with passion and never settle for something you ultimately don’t love to do. Can you imagine actually waking up wanting to go to work? I do, and I believe the same can be true for you!

“Find Something You Love To Do And

You Will Never Have To Work A Day In Your Life.”

-Harvey Mackay

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

Every May, corporations across America receive a deluge of applications from college graduates seeking employment. After the strenuous hiring process, new employees must be trained for their particular assignment. The personnel responsible to train new employees is often frustrated by young men and women who think that having a college degree means they don’t need training. Some trainers have resigned to this annual problem as an inevitable challenge within the corporation.

One trainer, Maggie McConnell, found this “problem” to be her golden opportunity. She too went to the company after college with hopes of finding a worthwhile career. She was disillusioned, though, by the tedium and lifelessness of computers, emails, memos, and letters. When the company announced they were looking for someone to train new recruits on the company’s general procedures, Maggie volunteered. She immediately adapted to her new responsibility as though she had slipped on a well-fitting glove. Her first conversation with new employees startles and excites them as they catch the genuine love she has for her position.

In the recent years Maggie has served in that capacity, the new employees have generated greater productivity than ever in the history of the company. They often take a moment to thank Maggie for her contagious love for what she does.

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Chapter 2

Perform At Your Best

“Always Live In Pursuit Of Becoming The Expert In

Your Chosen Field Of Endeavor.”

- Robb Thompson

Life is not worth living if you don’t give it your best. What reward do you have if you live half-heartedly? There is no joy in doing an average job. Do every task as if you were to sign your name on the finished product. Ask yourself, “Do I want others to know that I did this?”

Only we know when we do our best. Only we decide when we give the extra effort. It is at the offering of our best that we get noticed by those who can promote us. Doing your best must become a daily habit. Like all habits, this one is formed through repetition. As you do your best in one area of life, you’ll discover that it’s contagious - it spreads to everything else you do!

I can’t imagine doing something and not giving my best effort. I would feel as though I wasted my time and the time of those who counted on me. What if the barber didn’t do his best? How about the tailor? The mechanic? The surgeon? You may say, “They’re expected to do their best because someone else is affected by their mistakes.” What about us? Aren’t people affected by what we do? And can you honestly expect to receive what you are unwilling to give?

The coach who doesn’t do his best cannot expect his players to give him their best. Nor can a mediocre boss expect excellence from his employees. The boss who doesn’t do his best indirectly encourages others to be average.

What You Do, No Matter Who You Are,

Affects Those Around You.

Don’t expect from others what you are unwilling to give. Wake up with the commitment to do your best no matter how you feel or what you do. When Michelangelo’s assistant asked him, “Why are you taking so much time painting the corner of this chapel? No one can see it.” Michelangelo responded, “God can see it!” And God also sees your work. He sees the final touch you make and every corner you cut. Every time you approach life with the “just good enough” attitude, you abort your future promotion.

Doing your best is part of the meaning of the word excellence. Excellence is the passionate pursuit of distinction, and distinction requires you to do your best. What makes you different from those around you? I guarantee you this: those who do their best are in the top ten percent of employees in any corporation. Post this question where you can see it often:

Is This The Best I Can Do?

Think back to your days in school. How many people do you know who really did their best in class? How many of your classmates went to lectures prepared, excited, and ready to participate? How many read the textbook, asked questions in class, and did more than what the professor assigned? Very few, no doubt!

Since those are the same people in the workforce today, why is it any different? The same people who trudged through school are those who hold the majority of jobs. And just as only a few students in the classroom did their best, only a few people in the workforce give their all to their job. Unfortunate as this is, it means that there’s plenty of room at the top for anyone willing to do their best.

“When We Do The Best We Can,

We Never Know What Miracle Is Wrought

In Our Life Or The Life Of Another.”

-Helen Keller

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

The owner of a growing fancy chocolate company located in New England has a revolutionary philosophy that he adopted after years of working in a large, cold, chocolate processing plant. At the plant, the employees were discouraged from talking, forbidden to eat any of the chocolate, and expected to keep to their work.

The plant experienced massive turnover rates, and their profit margins steadily declined. The man, now into his more mature years, decided to open up his own chocolate company. The building where the chocolates are made is full of bright colors. The chocolates are handmade, and the employees are encouraged to make mistakes, since they could lead to new ideas.

Once the final product is completed, the employees are asked to put their own chocolate trademark on it to show that it was their handiwork. What the owner has created with this philosophy is a staff of employees who are eager to do their best work, and his profits have reflected their remarkable efforts.

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Chapter 3

Adopt A Willing Attitude

“There Are No Menial Jobs, Only Menial Attitudes.”

- William John Bennett

Have you ever come across an individual who is willing to do whatever you ask regardless of its inconvenience? This is the employee of which every boss dreams. A study in Psychology Today stated that bosses would rather have a happy and willing employee over a competent, unwilling employee. A willing person can learn a skill, but very rarely will a talented novice change his attitude.

Attitude is expressed in many ways, but here are three prominent indicators: countenance, body language, and tone of voice. Your countenance is the outward expression of your inner attitude. You show what you feel on your face.

Body language is also an attitude indicator. Any time you do something you really enjoy, your body takes on a different posture. You stand straighter and poised for action. When asked to do something you feel is bothersome, your shoulders drop and your posture sags. Changing your body posture can actually alter your attitude. If you stand up straight, keep your head up, and smile, your attitude will follow.

The last indicator of your attitude is your tone of voice. Your verbal reply to instructions reveals whether or not you are willing. Willing individuals have energy in their speech. They communicate with enthusiasm and passion. Infuse your words with passion instead of the monotony and dullness of most people’s voices. You can consciously change any of these three aspects and your attitude will follow.

Your Perception Of Life Determines

Your Attitude Toward Life.

So from where does a negative attitude come? The main source is wrong perspective. People perceive other people and situations around them through the lens of negativity. But how do you perceive those around you? How do you perceive your work environment? How do you perceive your boss and your coworkers? Your perception determines your attitude, good or bad. Change your perception and your attitude will follow suit.

Do you see work as a way to make money or as a way to express your God-given talents? Do you see your boss as a taskmaster using you for his own glory, or do you see him as someone who helps you get to the top? Your perception makes all the difference. There are always two ways to perceive everything, and the choice is always yours to make! Your “attitude determines your altitude.” The following poem depicts that principle so well.

Attitude

I woke up early today, excited over all I get to do before the clock strikes midnight. I have responsibilities to fulfill today. I am important. My job is to choose what kind of day I am going to have. Today I can complain because the weather is rainy or I can be thankful that the grass is getting watered for free. Today I can feel sad that I don't have more money or I can be glad that my finances encourage me to plan my purchases wisely and guide me away from waste. Today I can grumble about my health or I can rejoice that I am alive. Today I can lament over all that my parents never gave me when I was growing up or I can feel grateful that they allowed me to be born. Today I can cry because roses have thorns or I can celebrate that thorns have roses. Today I can mourn my lack of friends or I can excitedly embark upon a quest to discover new relationships. Today I can whine because I have to go to work or I can shout for joy because I have a job to do. Today I can complain because I have to go to school or eagerly open my mind and fill it with rich new tidbits of knowledge. Today I can murmur dejectedly because I have to do housework or I can feel honored because the Lord has provided shelter for my mind, body and soul. Today stretches ahead of me, waiting to be shaped. And here I am, the sculptor who gets to do the shaping. What today will be like is up to me. I get to choose what kind of day I will have!

-Author Unknown

The Greatest Weakness Attitude Possesses

Is Its Incapacity To Remain Hidden.

Be Pleasing

Pleasing others should be our motive in everything we do. If bringing pleasure is your motive, your attitude will remain positive, even if you aren’t recognized or acknowledged. If your motive is personal glory, your attitude will go sour at the slightest inconvenience.

I always encourage my employees to please those above them. No matter how much others may mock you for being a “brown-noser,” you will enjoy the benefits that bringing pleasure adds to your life. Any boss favors the person who is pleasing to them.

Employees spend too much time trying to please their coworkers instead of their supervisor. The person whose approval you want is the one who can promote you, not those on the same level as you. Your top priority is to please your boss. Ask yourself what you can do for him and how you can make his life easier. Make the choice to do anything in your means to please him. In the long run, you benefit as well.

The first step to being pleasing is to focus on the details. When you pay attention to the small details, you never fail in the big things. Neglect of detail is your one-way ticket to demotion. A boss simply won’t put up with a reoccurring oversight of details. Don’t make your superior search for help elsewhere.

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

The whole crew of flight attendants was friendly, but Jeanne stood out. She treated Mr. Smith like he was someone special. His initial gruff greeting didn’t scare her a bit. She must have seen something in his tired eyes that told her he wanted someone to care about him. She couldn’t have thought he had anything to offer her - his wispy hair and flannel shirt gave no hint of affluence. As far as he could tell, there was no reason for her to treat him as warmly as she did.

During the long flight, she became exactly what he needed her to be - genuine, caring, and patient. He stepped off the airplane refreshed, like he was young again. He didn’t have the means to thank her for her kindness - his gratitude was all he could offer. Somehow, though, he thought that was all Jeanne was hoping for.

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Chapter 4

Do More Than You Must

“Giving People A Little More Than What

They Expect Is A Good Way To Get

Back More Than You’d Expect.”

- Robert Half

Many refer to doing more than you are paid to do as “going the extra mile.” I touched on the importance of doing your best, but this concept goes one step further. Although you may do your best concerning what is required of you, it may not get you promoted. You arrive at promotion when you do more than what is required. Just because the boss didn’t ask you to do something does not mean you aren’t supposed to do it. Take the initiative and go the extra mile.

Promotion Is Never Granted By Performing

The Tasks You Are Already Paid To Do.

Those who only do what is required should not expect any type of promotion. Promotion only comes to those who do more than they are paid to do. If you are paid to do a task, and you complete the task, why would you be promoted? You did what you were paid to do. But if you did more than what was asked, that gives you a reason to expect promotion.

A son who is expected to keep his room clean cannot ask for a special treat because he did it. If he is asked to clean his room and he cleans the whole house, he rightfully earns a reward. He did more than was required, and therefore he deserves a prize. What have you been asked to do? Do it with excellence and to completion. Only then are you qualified to go the extra mile. Once you complete your assignment, go beyond what was asked by doing more than you were paid to do.

Promotion is granted to those who go the extra mile. Take the initiative to reason what the boss would want done, and then get started on it. What employer wouldn’t want such an employee? A boss is more than willing to promote this type of individual.

Ask yourself, “Have I done what was asked of me? If so, what can I do to go the extra mile? What would my boss love for me to get done without him having to ask?” Do it immediately and you will reap the reward of promotion!

“You Need No Fear Of Competition

From The Person Who Says,

‘I’m Not Paid To Do This And I’ll Not Do It.’

He Will Never Be A Dangerous Competitor

For Your Job. But Watch Out For The Fellow

Who Remains At His Work Until It Is Finished

And Performs A Little More Than Is Expected Of

Him, For He May Challenge You At The Post

And Pass You At The Grandstand.”

- Napoleon Hill

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

Diane created Fine Foods Delivery Company from the expression of a love for cooking and serving she inherited from her mother, but the dream of making a living from it turned into a management nightmare.

Her staff consisted of delivery drivers, customer service representatives, a secretary, stock boys, marketers, and in-house chefs for catering. When business was good, she hardly noticed the corners being cut by almost every employee. As business slowed and competition won many of her customers, she realized something was wrong. Those she had trusted with responsibilities were doing just enough to get by.

Diane held a staff training night (which she catered herself), and she challenged them to improve their performance for the sake of their own character, not just the business. Only a few of the employees responded to her challenge, but what a difference it made! Though she hadn’t been able to give them a raise before, their greater efforts during the day and their added hours off the clock revitalized business enough to reward those few.

Within a few months, Diane had replaced seventy-five percent of her staff, and profits reached new records every month. Diane made it worthwhile for the employees that carried her company to success even before they saw a benefit for themselves. They were rewarded because they were willing to go the extra mile.

* * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 5

Manage Time Well

“Time Is The One Things We All Possess.

Our Success Depends Upon The Use

Of Our Time And Its By-product,

The Odd Moment.”

- Arthur Brisbane

Life is measured by time. Everyone has twenty-four hours in a day. How we use those twenty-four hours determines the outcome of our lives. How well do you manage your time? Do you have purpose in every day? Hour? Minute? Second? You may think that is impossible, but high-performers know where their time goes and why it goes there. They have purpose in every second.

Time is the tool God gave us to create any future we desire. The rich don’t receive twenty-five hours while the poor only get twenty-three. Everyone has twenty-four hours. Time is an inexplicable resource given to mankind. With it, all things are possible; without it, we cease to achieve.

A Great Life And A Mediocre Life

Cost The Same Price - Time.

Every tomorrow is created by every TODAY! If you don’t like your today, just know that it was created with the time you were given yesterday. If you want a better tomorrow, change the way you use your time today.

If you were to take an inventory of your time for a week, would the results frighten or satisfy you? Be honest. We want to believe that we manage our time well, but the truth is that we can all manage it better. It has been said, “Time is our greatest commodity.” I certainly agree. There is no greater possession than time, but the fleeting thing about time is that it has to be used. You cannot carry it over to the next day. You must use it right here and now. If you don’t know what to do with it, then surely you will waste it.

You may not like the way your life is turning out, and you may feel that things should be better than they are. Surely, we all have thought this at one point or another, but can we change it? Certainly! Change the use of your time, and you’ll change the course of your life.

Although you may have wasted millions and millions of seconds (we all have) that soon add up, you still can change. You can decide today that you will manage your time in such a way that you create a better tomorrow - a future you want. You are the master, and time will create whatever it is you desire.

Time Is The One Thing Over Which We Have

Been Given Complete Control. Your Success Depends

Upon How You Spend Your Time.

We all have our standard eight hours on the job. History shows us, though, that no self-made millionaire worked from only nine to five. They all used the time after work to their advantage. Research tells us the difference between the rich and the poor is how they use their time between 6:00 and 9:00 p.m. One may go home, watch TV, have a meal, and take a nap. Another may stay late at work, read about improving at the job, and spend an hour learning a new skill. Can you guess what will happen to both individuals after two, five, and even ten years? They no longer will be in the same class. How they use their time determines the outcome of their life.

Ask yourself these questions:

1. What is the most valuable use of my time right now?

2. What is my highest priority task?

3. What hour of the day can I set aside to work on personal development?

4. How will I log where my hours go for the next week?

5. Who manages their time well? When will I set up a meeting with them to learn from them?

All Of Us Have Twenty-four Hours In A Day.

How We Spend Those Twenty-four Hours

Determines The Outcome Of Our Lives.

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

Medical school taught Brittany Richards much more than treating the sick. Her demanding course load forged her ability to make the most of her time. Her part-time job and social obligations tightened her schedule even more. By the time she completed her residency, she thought she had mastered her own clock.

As a physician, she experienced an overload of impatient patients. Her waiting room was often crowded beyond comfort. Despite Dr. Richards’ ability to manage her own time effectively, the demand for her attention grew. Her responsibilities at home were no small matter, either. The stress of life forced her to make changes.

Her attention to patients couldn’t lessen because it was the cornerstone of her practice. Instead, she delegated every task that could be handled by a nurse or an office aide. All the non-immediate issues were assigned to after office hours. Even at home, she intentionally took time to relax rather than fitting it between phone calls and paperwork. Knowing her need for sleep, she gave herself a non-negotiable bedtime that she followed faithfully.

These changes, among others, were by no means easy, but within a few months they produced a relatively peaceful atmosphere that was healthy, profitable, and enjoyable.

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Chapter 6

Take Initiative

“They Always Say That Time Changes

Things, But You Actually Have

To Change Them Yourself.”

- Andy Warhol

“If it is going to be, then it is up to me,” is a famous saying by motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar. Most successful people I know are people of action. They constantly go, do, and achieve far more than the average person.

Your success lies in your ability to take initiative. As an employee, your promotion is hidden within the seed of your actions. What can you do that will impress your boss? What can you do to become more skilled at what you do? Be creative. Think of new ways something can be done or a new position that is needed. Go to work and make it happen. Take immediate action whenever you get an idea. I wonder how many ideas go to the grave never to be acted upon. Begin now - not tomorrow, not next week, but today - to seize the moment and make this day count. Yesterday is gone and tomorrow may never come.

Remember the story of Rudy, the young man who had a dream to play football for Notre Dame? His dream became a reality only after he took initiative.

Do you want a promotion? I haven’t seen any boss hand them out like they were candy. You have to earn them. This happens when you take initiative - put your ideas into action, take on tasks that normally wouldn’t be assigned to anyone, and do things before you are asked.

Man Cannot Fail Without His Consent

And He Cannot Succeed Without His Participation.

A Brief Word On Problem Solving

Most people don’t understand the correlation between solving problems and rewards. Your value is linked to your willingness to solve problems for others.

What problems can you solve for those who are currently further up the ladder of life? What can you do to make their lives better? The problems you solve also determine how you will be remembered. The greater the problems, the more you will be rewarded.

All you have to do is recognize a problem and put some thought into a solution. Be careful, though, to avoid bringing a problem to your boss’s attention without a solution on hand. You only aggravate a person who already has enough to balance, and you get no reward when the problem is eventually solved.

The existence of a problem proves there is a solution. You are paid by your employer to solve the problems he gives you, but if you want to be promoted, then solve greater problems. Posture yourself as a “go-to” person.

Benefits Of Solving Problems

1. Solving problems creates favor with your boss. You will become indispensable, and in order for your boss to benefit more greatly from your service, he must move you to a place of greater responsibility.

2. Solving problems motivates the rest of the team. When you solve problems for your employer, your coworkers will respond in one of two ways. They will be inspired to do the same, or they will resent you for making them seem less valuable.

3. When you solve problems, your self-confidence increases. Your sense of worth is proportional to how valuable you are to the people around you. Solving problems boosts your confidence. Knowing you have pleased your boss lets you lie down at night, satisfied with your day’s work.

One final note: Don’t try to solve problems you can’t handle. Find those you can, and start by solving them. As you grow in problem solving, what once seemed impossible will become possible. Take your time and be patient. Problems are not always easy to distinguish, but when you see them, be the first one to solve them. That is where your difference lies.

Becoming Indispensable In Life Is Easy;

Solve The Problems Others Refuse To Solve.

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

Nate grew up in a home where both of his parents worked full-time jobs just so they could pay the bills for the family. At sixteen, Nate got his first job. By twenty-one, he had worked at thirteen different jobs, rarely making much more than minimum wage. Frustrated with his own shortcomings and determined to improve his circumstances, he enrolled in night courses to study business.

For the first time in his academic life he was motivated to learn. During the two summers previous to graduation, he interned at a large marketing firm downtown, receiving a meager stipend for his efforts. Shortly before graduation, he was offered a full-time position at the firm, which he graciously accepted. Spending two summers in the office taught him much of the responsibilities of the different departments, the protocols for working with clients, and even a bit of the company culture.

As an employee, he quickly learned the remainder of the workings of the company, but he also noticed the problems the firm faced. When Nate started coming up with solutions for those problems, his employer was surprised, and his coworkers were resentful. Within a few years, Nate’s actions and dedication as well as his humble attitude toward the office staff promoted him past many of his seniors and earned him a salary much nobler than his parents had ever known.

* * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 7

Radiate Enthusiasm

“Enthusiasm Is The Fuel That Propels You Into A Successful Future.”

- Robb Thompson

What is the major difference between the person who perseveres and the person who quits? ENTHUSIASM! Think back on your past and see if you can recognize the times you lost your enthusiasm. You more than likely threw in the towel shortly afterward. I’m guilty of this, and I still have to work on being enthusiastic in some of the things I do.

Enthusiasm is the fuel that drives you to excel. Without it, you won’t persist in any endeavor. It is possible to lose your enthusiasm. The good news is it can be rekindled - for work, marriage, exercise, and even learning.

One Feels The Noblest And Acts The Best

When The Inspiration Of Enthusiasm Drives

Him Onward Toward The Attainment

Of A Well Defined Goal.

How do you define enthusiasm? Do you see it as a feeling, an emotion, or a mental state? Enthusiasm comes from two Greek words. The first is Theos, which means God. The second is En-Ta, which means within you. The original meaning of the word, then, is God within you. Enthusiasm is allowing God to express Himself through you. Allow God’s emotions, ideas, and creativity to flow through you into everything you do.

Whatever your occupation may be - banker, baker, coach, minister, printer, officer, superintendent, or teacher - you will encounter many struggles before you will achieve your dreams. But you can overcome with the force of enthusiasm. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Enthusiasm is the mother of effort and without it nothing great will ever be achieved.”

How To Develop Enthusiasm

1. Stay focused on your objective. Whatever you focus on grows. The more you place your thoughts on your main objective, the more your desire to attain it grows. Put your goals before you every day. Paint a picture of them onto the canvas of your mind. This simple practice refreshes the enthusiasm you once had.

2. Take action. Emotions always follow action. As you act the part, you soon feel the part. Act enthusiastically even if you don’t feel like it, and you soon will see a transformation in the way you feel.

“If You Want To Be Enthusiastic,

Act Enthusiastically.”

-Dale Carnegie

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

At a large corporate office and warehouse in the Midwest there’s an older fellow whose contagious grin brings a holiday-like cheer to passing employees. Gene works as one of the janitors for the packaging department. On his supply-closet-turned-office door are taped newspaper comics of custodial workers.

The only clue that Gene is well into his sixty’s is his bright white head of hair and whiskery jaw line. He has the pep of a man in his twenties and the physique of a runner. Dressed in a flannel shirt, blue jeans, and a pair of sneakers and packing an arsenal of spray bottles, Gene’s attitude at work radiates an enthusiasm that far surpasses that of even the most promising executive in the office. Gene hasn’t made millions of dollars, and there isn’t much room for promotion in his line of work. He could choose to be a gruff old man, resentful of the hundreds of young men and women who rush past him every morning on their way to their computers, faxes, and e-mails.

Instead, there’s a pervading gratitude in his eyes and in his smile that celebrates every moment of life. The employees could forgo one of their lunch breaks to learn a thing or two about enthusiasm from Gene, as it is more valuable than a midday meal.

* * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 8

Personify Diligence

“He Who Labors Diligently Need Never

Despair, For All Things Are Accomplished

Through Diligence And Labor.”

- Menandor of Athens

Diligence is the speedy attention to an assigned task. Diligence is getting the job done promptly and in excellence. Do you act quickly when your supervisor asks for something? Do you do it immediately or wait until later? This is yet one more difference between those who are mediocre and those who excel. Your immediate attention to an assigned task proves to your boss that he is your priority. He sees you take notice of what is important to him.

Are you known as a completer or as one who leaves projects unfinished? Practice finishing tasks more strongly than how you began. Complete everything you start unless you know it has become unnecessary. Make sure to finish every project you start. Otherwise you will have the memory of incompletion every time you think about that project. When assigned a task, don’t stop until you are finished.

One effective technique I use is to work on my most important task until completion. It means not starting another task before the one at hand, the most important one, is completed. Diligence is the key to completion. Be known as the person who always completes the assigned task.

An Excellent Employee Gives Results -

He Doesn’t Give Regrets.

Become results orientated in everything you do. Your boss is focused on results and production, not on your sincere intentions. When asked to do something, immediately get to work until it is completed. If you do a little here and a little there, you double or triple the amount of time it takes. Instead, work on it until you can say, “It is finished.”

Practice this, and you will develop the quality of diligence in your life. It carries over into others areas, too, creating rapid change. Ask yourself these questions:

• To what areas can I apply diligence?

• Are there any projects I have not completed?

• Do I finish stronger than I start?

• Am I known as the one who gives immediate attention to an assigned task?

“Diligence Is The Mother Of Good Fortune.”

-Miguel De Cervantes

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

Many years ago, I worked for a well-known parcel delivery service. That job was essential to my development; it helped me get off the ground financially and it gave me a few lessons in character. I would regularly approach my boss in the morning and say to him, “Sir, I am here today to help you get a promotion. Whatever you want from me is what I’m going to give and even more.” Now, my boss was not a particularly kind man, and he didn’t care for my personality. He never showed any sign of graciousness toward me, and he regularly chimed in with the fellow drivers to belittle me. Still, none of that mattered to me. I meant what I said. I wasn’t looking to be a friend of the boss. I desired to do my job the best way I knew how.

There were trying moments to say the least, but all the ridicule I endured was worth it. I was often given two or three times as many packages to deliver than the other employees, yet I always seemed to finish before them. They’d say, “Hey Thompson, what are you doing? You’re making us look bad!” The truth is, they made themselves look bad. They lived at the lowest acceptable standard. I lived at the highest. What was the result? Well, here I am today, getting to do what I love - helping people all around the world.

* * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 9

Exemplify Self-Discipline

“An Excellent Employee Doesn’t Require

Oversight And Always Welcomes Inspection.”

- Robb Thompson

Self-discipline is the ability to do what you know you need to do when you need to do it, whether or not you feel like it. The single most important quality for success is self-discipline. Self-discipline takes you to places and keeps you there while your enthusiasm builds. Your job requires of you to do things you won’t necessarily feel like doing. This is where you must apply self-discipline and complete the task, regardless of how you feel.

It is not what you intend to do or what you know to do that determines your future. It is whether or not you discipline yourself to pay the price, over and over, until you finally obtain your objective.

Those who are trusted to manage themselves and their time are given more responsibility. Discipline allows you to master your time, emotions, and desires. The urge to procrastinate is suppressed by the disciplined person. You need self-discipline to delay gratification, to organize your work area, and to work on your highest priority task.

There are days when you don’t feel like going into work. There are times when you don’t feel like completing a project. You must apply self-discipline and decide to do what needs to be done, regardless of how you feel. Practice this, and it becomes more natural. The purpose of discipline is solely to create a habit. We are a living expression of the habits we develop, positive or negative. Discipline yourself to do what you are assigned to do. This practice alone will advance you beyond your contemporaries.

“Simply, Self-discipline Enables You

To Think First And Act Afterward.”

-Napoleon Hill

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

One employer said to his aspiring novelist, “Progress is a matter of self-discipline.” The employee didn’t understand. “C’mon,” he said, “self-discipline is important for athletes and soldiers, but all writers need is a good idea.” The boss smiled at the aspiring writer’s oversight. “How many times when you were trying to come up with a story did you check your email? How long were you on the phone? How many times did you wander away from your desk to get a snack? Is it any wonder you haven’t come up with a good storyline?” The writer saw what his boss meant.

To get the job, he spent weeks writing and perfecting his application short-stories, hardly leaving his chair but to satisfy his hunger or go to the restroom. He produced a number of highly acclaimed stories in his first months on the job, but after that he seemed to forget the effort it took to take him there. His boss had been gracious enough to correct him gently. Nonetheless, the writer knew he’d better adjust his habits, or he would be released to waste his own time.

What followed was remarkable. He didn’t produce any masterpieces for a number of years, but he did notice every irrelevant thing that fought for his attention. By refusing to give in to his every whim, he refined his character so much so that in the following years he was able to write nationally recognized stories, which brought substantial income to himself and his employer. Discipline was his ticket to promotion, and by it he became famous for his work.

* * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 10

Practice Assertiveness

“The Basic Difference Between Being Assertive

And Being Aggressive Is How Our Words And

Behavior Affect The Rights And

Well Being Of Others.”

- Sharon Bower

Being assertive is the balance between being aggressive and being passive. Aggressive employees seem demanding and controlling. Passive employees are afraid to express their feelings, voice their opinion, and share new ideas. Coworkers dread working with the aggressive type. Working with the passive is no better, though, because they add no value to the effort. Consequently, both personalities are ineffective in the workplace.

What does it mean to be assertive? It means to be open and honest to those around you, even to your boss. To be assertive means to feel free to express new ideas, opinions, and feelings in a professional manner. Bosses appreciate an employee who is respectfully open. To an employer, the more important aspect of a suggestion is its presentation - not its raw content.

I am reminded of the dialogue between Andrew Carnegie and one of his employees. The employee approached Carnegie and requested a meeting with him. Mr. Carnegie agreed, and they met. The young man brought a new way of advertising to Mr. Carnegie’s attention and assured him that it would save money for the company. Mr. Carnegie disagreed. Still, the young man said, “Okay, you are the boss, but I assure you that I have studied this, and you will lose money.”

Mr. Carnegie took to heart what he said and implemented the new idea. That idea saved the company millions of dollars. That young man’s name was Charles Schwab. His idea saved the company money; his assertiveness was awarded by promotion.

Charles Schwab brought his suggestion respectfully and confidently. Few employees understand how to do this successfully. If Mr. Schwab had presented the new idea too aggressively, the idea would have been forgotten. If he had timidly shared his idea with Mr. Carnegie and acquiesced at the first sign of disapproval, he would have failed as well.

Be open and honest with those around you, especially your boss. Always present your feelings and opinions in a respectful manner. Don’t bring your personal feelings or life into the work environment. If you have an idea, opinion, or feeling, cordially share your thoughts with your employer and coworkers.

You may notice something about the operations of your company that your boss has overlooked. Bringing it to his attention may be very welcomed. Be willing to present new ideas to your boss, but be prepared if he refutes them. Don’t take it personally, but accept his decision, knowing that you did what was expected of you.

Assertiveness takes practice, but it can be mastered by anyone. Practice with your spouse, children, friends, and coworkers. Be open and honest yet remain respectful. Seek to understand rather than to be understood. The more you practice, the more assertive you will become.

“Joint Undertakings Stand A Better

Chance When They Benefit Both Sides.”

- Euripides

* * * * *

Lesson to Learn

Derrick used to walk into the office every morning dreading his first encounter of the day with his boss. Mr. O’Neil, the manager of a large accounting firm, was known to be somewhat harsh with his staff. Derrick, a recent graduate from a prestigious school, studied long and hard to make the grades that would qualify him for what he thought would be a career of easy money and cookbook responsibilities.

In school, he devoted hours to studying every financial term and legal loophole, but he nodded off in his human relations and interpersonal communications courses. In his mind, he would be plenty successful as long as he knew everything there was to know about accounting. Mr. O’Neil shattered his hopes. He barked instructions to Derrick from the coldness of his office chair. When Derrick completed them, Mr. O’Neil would utter a gruff, “It’s about time,” only to be followed by the complaints, “This isn’t what I asked for,” or “Kid, if you turn in something like this again, it’ll be your last assignment in this office.”

By the end of each day, Derrick was so frustrated at Mr. O’Neil for his rude manner and caustic remarks that he left in tears. When Derrick finally quit, Mr. O’Neil wondered why such a talented young lad walked away from a dream career without ever mentioning a word of discontent.

* * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 11

Join The Team

“Success Is A Team Sport.

No One Ever Climbs To The Top Alone.”

- Robb Thompson

Selfless teamwork adds value to you, your coworkers, and the future of the company. In any organization, we are bound by a common cause. Until we become inspired by the spirit of teamwork and recognize the role each part plays to lead an organization to success, we forfeit the benefits of teamwork.

What is teamwork? It is a group of individuals that join together to accomplish a single goal. They are agreed in their objective and enthusiastic in their pursuit. Their motive is to add value, not to seek their own good. A company without trustworthy team players cannot excel.

Michael Jordan’s basketball talent alone couldn’t win championships. Only when he developed a teamwork mentality were the championships won. Notice also that the Chicago Bulls won the trophy, not Michael Jordan. No one makes it to the top alone.

True teamwork depends on relating to others in such a way that they cooperate with you. It begins with you. You must first be willing before you can expect others to be. Management expert Peter Drucker says, “All employees have to see themselves as executives so that they will see the work they do in the context of the entire corporation.”

I constantly remind my employees they are part of a team. They play a role that no one else plays. It is up to them to take care of their responsibilities. Otherwise, the organization doesn’t succeed. My personal successes are only possible because of the team that supports me. Not everyone can be the star player. Role players are just as important. Although I may receive most of the credit, I know those who truly deserve it. We are a team, and when the team wins, everyone deserves the credit.

Cultivate the spirit of a team player. Seek to harmonize with your coworkers in the achievement of the organization’s vision. Be willing to sacrifice time, credit, money, and effort to enhance the team’s potential. A team is only as strong as its weakest player, so make sure to help others grow. Find ways to bring out the best in your teammates. Teamwork costs relatively little for the great dividends it pays.

“The Achievements Of An Organization

Are The Results Of The Combined Effort

Of Each Individual.”

- Vince Lombardi

Lesson to Learn

Interviewing the applicant for the position reminded Mr. Harris of his youthful naiveté. Their conversation started out very cordially as Matt shared some of his past experiences that he thought qualified him for the job. “I always liked wrestling. It was the only sport where I was in complete control of the outcome. I didn’t have to depend on anyone to come through for me.”

Immediately a red flag went up in Mr. Harris’s mind. He knew whoever he hired would need to depend on other members of the company to be successful. He followed through with the rest of the interview, giving Matt a few other questions to answer. The man truly did have some impressive qualifications, but something in his attitude worried Mr. Harris.

Matt left the office that day in high spirits. The next applicant warmly greeted Mr. Harris as he took his seat. A few minutes into the interview, the man mentioned, “I always loved baseball…” Mr. Harris didn’t hear the rest of what he said. He chuckled at the irony of the situation. Never before had he realized the common denominator among all of his current employees - the quality that made them effective. Mr. Harris hired this man on the spot, and Matt wondered why he never got a phone call.

* * * * * * * * * *

Chapter 12

Risk Doing Something Great

“Most People Live And Die With Their Music

Still Unplayed. They Never Dared To Try.”

- Mary Kay Ash

I like individuals who are willing to take risks and put themselves on the line to get ahead. They don’t fear mistakes or failure. They are unaffected by the opinions of others, which allows them to express themselves freely and openly. When they have an idea, they share it, unafraid of rejection. Their creativity flows because of the freedom in which they live. They willingly invest hours of their personal time on a project, recognizing the possibility that it won’t be accepted.

Risk-takers take initiative and make executive decisions. Sometimes such actions get them in trouble, but many times those decisions get them promoted. Going the extra mile in taking risks is worth the effort even if failure is the result, because the experience and growth from the risks are priceless.

- Are you willing to take risks?

- Do you fear to fail or make a mistake?

- Do ideas linger within you because you fear you will be rejected?

- Do you have a difficult time expressing a new way of doing things because you don’t want to be corrected?

I want risk-takers on my team. Here’s how I define a risk-taker: he is someone who collects the facts and knowledge concerning his idea and accurately assesses if the value of its success is worth the price it requires. He has collected enough evidence to support that his risk is good for both the company and for those around him. I do not consider a risk-taker to be the one who makes decisions or presents ideas flippantly. I only want those who are confident that the return is greater than the risk.

Steps To Develop Risk-taking:

1. Face the fear of failure. This one fear aborts many great futures. There are books unwritten, songs unsung, ideas not expressed because of the fear of failure. The only way to conquer the fear of failure is to face it.

2. Practice taking small risks. You don’t need to start big. Just a little risk here and there gives you confidence to take bigger risks down the road.

3. Be willing to take responsibility for failure. Express to those around you that you will take responsibility if something does not succeed. Fortunately, failure is just an opportunity to learn what not to do. But you cannot do this at the expense of the organization. Take risk, but take it responsibly.

4. Take the risk confidently and enthusiastically. Many risks fail because people attempt them with too much reserve. Your success calls for a whole-hearted effort. You must take a risk with confidence knowing you will succeed and bring value to the organization.

“Play The Game For More Than You Can

Afford To Lose. Only Then Will You Learn The Game.”

- Winston Churchill

Take a moment to read the following poem entitled The Comfort Zone and see how it relates to you.

The Comfort Zone

I used to have a comfort zone where I knew I wouldn’t fail.

The same four walls and busy work were really more like jail.

I longed so much to do the things I’d never done before,

But stayed inside my comfort zone and paced the same old floor.

I said it didn't matter that I wasn’t doing much.

I said I didn't care for things like commission checks and such.

I claimed to be so busy with things inside my zone,

But deep inside I longed for something special of my own.

I couldn't let my life go by just watching others win.

I held my breath; I stepped outside and let the change begin.

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