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Category: Leadership

Origin Story (Part 3)

Posted on by dan_adm

My Origin Story (PART 3)

“If you keep doing what you’ve always done, you’ll keep getting what you’ve always got.”

Tony Robbins

Recap of Part One:
As a child, my fascination with trucks led me to join the local volunteer fire department just for the chance to ride in them—quite a passion, right? I earned my CDL at 18 but spent years seeking to move away from trucking. When we last left off, I had recently become a licensed CDL tester for Colorado.

Recap of Part Two:
I was tasked with a significant challenge: transforming a large company’s compliance from 0% to 100% promptly after an audit.

After achieving a 98% compliance rate in less than 3 months, our company was acquired by a larger one, leaving me unsure about the security of my job. However, it also presented unexpected networking opportunities.

Let’s dive back into the story! Shortly after, I received an email from the CEO requesting my presence at their corporate office in Houston, TX. I promptly purchased my ticket and flew down the following week.

That week felt like an eternity, filled with doubt and fear creeping into my mind.

Upon arriving and entering his office, I found Tamisha and the former owner of my company already present. My heart sank—I anticipated bad news.

They invited me to take a seat, and the tension in the room was palpable.

My stomach churned with nerves as I anticipated the worst—they had called me here to terminate my employment. I braced myself for criticisms about my system failures, accusations of incompetence, and the dreaded news that my services were no longer required.

But then, to my surprise, they all smiled warmly. The CEO spoke up, “So, this is Dan, the DOT man Tamisha has been praising? Dan, these two haven’t stopped talking about you since our discussions about merging companies began. After Tamisha’s initial visit, she insisted on your inclusion as a condition for approval. So, what do you say? Would you consider joining our team?”

My stomach plummeted, and my thoughts raced in disbelief. My fears were unfounded.

He continued speaking, “Ez (the former owner) shared with us that when you took on the role of DOT manager, they were facing a potential shutdown due to an audit. However, you developed a DOT program that not only transformed the company culture but also boosted safety ratings and profitability. Tamisha raved about your program, calling it the best she’d ever seen after her visit. So, would you be interested in helping align our entire team?”

I couldn’t refuse such an opportunity, could I?

We successfully integrated my system across six different companies, totaling over 4400 employees and 2500 drivers. Over a span of two years, I collaborated with them to transform their DOT program from roughly 40% compliance to nearly 99% compliance. Our fleet spanned the lower 48 states and included over 3,800 pieces of rolling stock. Despite our small team of just four individuals, I was primarily responsible for travel and implementation.

I broadened my network beyond what I had ever imagined.

When the CVSA conference came around, I was asked to attend and represent our companies. While there, I also assumed a voting position on two separate committees, a unique role as the sole attendee with voting rights on both committees.

 

CVSA represents a collaborative effort among lawmakers (FMCSA, PHMSA), law enforcers (officers, police, DOT patrol), and industry representatives (companies) to enhance DOT standards across North America.

Shortly thereafter, we made the decision to establish a business aimed at assisting more companies with their compliance needs. This involved taking a leap of faith by leaving behind a well-paying job with an income exceeding six figures and leaving behind valued colleagues.

Initially, we only had one client. Yes, you read that correctly—we believed in our ability to succeed with just one client. Who does that? We dedicated ourselves to hosting numerous free live events to share our expertise with the community.

Then COVID-19 struck, halting our free events just as we were gaining momentum. We swiftly adapted, transitioning to digital platforms. Initially, attendance was sparse, with only one or two participants showing up at our events. I often questioned if our efforts were worthwhile and if we would ever reach enough people to realize our goal of assisting more companies.

However, there was a turning point when we hosted an event that reached maximum capacity. That success prompted us to pivot once again to share our knowledge more widely.

In our inaugural year of business, we experienced significant growth: a 30x increase in our client list, a 300x growth in our email list, and a 1000x increase in our followers. We consider this an exceptional first year in business.

While there have been numerous challenges along the way, we remain dedicated to helping all businesses that rely on trucks in their operations. Our mission is to empower every company, regardless of size, with a robust DOT program that transforms their operations. We aim to provide industry expertise to every company, ensuring they have the tools needed for success.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “God Wants You to Succeed.”. Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Outwitting the Devil

Posted on by dan_adm

Outwitting the Devil

“Your only limitation is the one which you set up in your own mind.”

Napoleon Hill, Outwitting the Devil

You may not be aware, but Napoleon Hill, renowned for his book “Think and Grow Rich,” also penned another work in the 1930s titled “Outwitting the Devil.” In this intriguing piece, Hill conducts an interview with the devil himself, uncovering his darkest secrets.

It’s truly a remarkable read. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend picking up a copy today—don’t delay!

I owe a huge thank you to Russell Brunson for recommending this book to me; it was truly eye-opening.

Let’s delve into it further.

Interestingly, although written in the 1930s, “Outwitting the Devil” wasn’t published until 2011. This delay was due to Hill’s wife initially refusing to allow its publication. Even after both Hill and his wife had passed away, their daughter withheld permission for publication. It wasn’t until two generations later that the Napoleon Hill Foundation finally released the book.

What’s truly remarkable is that, despite its age, the book’s insights remain entirely relevant today.

One of the most compelling aspects of the book is Hill’s exploration of how the devil employs fear to keep 98% of people “drifting.” It prompted me to reflect on times in my own life when fear may have led me to drift off course.

You might be wondering, “What exactly is drifting?”

Drifting occurs when a person navigates through life without actively seeking self-improvement or striving to better their circumstances. Instead of taking control and making deliberate choices, they passively allow events to unfold.

Think of it this way: When you’re drifting, you lack direction and purpose. You’re unsure of where you’re headed or what you’re doing. Remaining stuck in a job you dislike or repeating the same harmful behaviors despite knowing better are prime examples of drifting.

Let’s circle back to fear. When was the last time fear held you back from taking action? When did you refrain from speaking up out of fear of judgment? Fear immobilizes us and allows negativity to prevail.

Living in fear, especially in times like the COVID-19 pandemic, gives power to negative forces.

One significant lesson from the book is the importance of having a clear direction in life. With a definite purpose, drifting becomes impossible. Purpose fuels motivation and keeps us focused, leaving no room for aimless wandering.

Reading this made me reassess my own motivations. For instance, I write and send out devotionals not only to spread God’s word but also because I personally need the messages I share.

So often, I find myself reading devotionals and blogs that I’ve written months in advance, only to be struck by the relevance of the messages to my own life. It’s like getting a gentle (or sometimes not so gentle) reminder to heed the words I’ve shared. Sometimes, I even chuckle to myself, thinking, “Wow, this guy who writes these is really onto something!”

In designing software for Eclipse DOT, our aim isn’t just to earn more money; it’s to simplify DOT processes so effectively that anyone can use it. Similarly, when we assist companies, it’s not merely about financial gain. We do it to save them time and money while introducing industry-specific best practices.

Have you ever considered your purpose for what you do? Take a moment to reflect. Are you drifting, or is your purpose clear and defined?

There are countless valuable insights in the book, and I don’t want to spoil them all for you. However, there’s one more that significantly impacted my life: the importance of thinking outside the box.

Too often, we’re constrained by the desire to color inside the lines, both literally and metaphorically. We teach our children to stay within the lines when coloring a picture, but why aren’t we encouraging them to draw their own pictures instead?

By constantly praising conformity, we’re not truly helping them grow. Instead, when we encourage them to create their own designs, invent their own creatures, or innovate in various ways, we’re fostering their ability to think independently and problem-solve creatively.

The devil wants us to conform, to always color inside the lines, and to never question the status quo. But true growth and innovation come from daring to think for ourselves.

When we begin to question the status quo, that’s when we break free from drifting alongside the devil.

Here’s what I urge you to do next: Head to your preferred bookstore or audiobook platform and get yourself a copy of “Outwitting the Devil” by Napoleon Hill. I guarantee you won’t regret it.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Reconnecting with God“. Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Picking the RIGHT leaders, just got a little easier!

Posted on by dan_adm

Picking the Right Leaders Just Got a Little Easier

Finding the right leaders for your company or organization can be challenging, but this should help simplify the decision.

The world abounds with individuals who believe they possess the qualities of great leaders. However, the stark truth is that genuine greatness in leadership is a rare find. Looking back through history, one can discern only a select few who truly exemplified extraordinary leadership, including figures like Moses, David, Jesus, Abraham Lincoln, and Winston Churchill, to name just a few.

These leaders shared commonalities in their reluctance to assume leadership roles and their feelings of inadequacy for the positions they were thrust into. None of them actively sought power or leadership; rather, circumstances compelled them into these roles. They did not inherit their positions but instead found themselves thrust into positions of authority.

Why do we consistently prioritize individuals who actively pursue leadership roles within our companies and organizations instead of identifying the most qualified leaders? As leaders, it’s imperative that we closely observe our team members—I mean, truly observe them. Who naturally garners followership? Who humbly contributes ideas without seeking constant recognition? Who demonstrates resilience and determination when confronted with challenges? Aren’t these the qualities we seek in our leaders? Those who take the initiative to resolve issues without seeking permission and quietly handle situations without seeking acknowledgment are the ones we should prioritize for leadership positions.

These individuals often fly under management’s radar because they efficiently get the job done. Ironically, many managers perceive them as idle because they don’t feel the need to report on every task they accomplish. Consequently, their value often remains unrecognized until they depart the company or switch departments. Suddenly, their absence reveals a host of issues their manager had never faced before. What is the reason for this absence of problems in the past? Their “lazy” employee silently resolved them without seeking recognition—they just got things done.

Many great leaders initially doubt their qualifications when entrusted with leadership roles. Did you know that Moses, upon being called into a mentor position by God, argued vehemently, claiming he wasn’t fit to lead the Israelites out of Egypt? He even negotiated with God, citing his lack of eloquence and suggesting his brother Aaron as a more suitable spokesperson. Moses was adamant that he wasn’t the right person for the task. However, history reveals that he was precisely what the Israelites needed. Not only did he successfully lead them out of Egypt, but he also guided them through the desert for forty years.

How frequently do we overlook promising young individuals within our company who possess great leadership potential but aren’t pushed to assume leadership roles? I’ve witnessed this scenario repeatedly, where we promote based on tenure rather than merit. Sadly, this often results in missed opportunities to cultivate exceptional leaders because of our resistance to change. Arbitrary criteria such as residency, years of experience, age, appearance, or past management roles should not hinder someone’s progression. These biases serve as poor justifications for denying individuals the chance to advance and contribute to their fullest potential.

I urge all of you reading this to refrain from judging individuals solely by their appearances. Take the time to identify the leaders already present within your organization. Seek out those whom others naturally turn to for guidance in various situations. These individuals will bring immense value to the organization, as they’ve already garnered a following of individuals who trust their advice implicitly. Instead of solely prioritizing previous experience, focus on personality and attitude when hiring. The most effective leaders are often those who need convincing to accept a leadership role. Their humility and genuine desire to serve will make them excel in their positions.

Allocate the necessary time to step beyond your comfort zone and actively seek out a truly exceptional leader for your organization.

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘TRUST AS A LEADER‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at RealDanGreer.com.

Pivoting to where you need to be instead of where you want to be

Posted on by dan_adm

Pivoting to Where You Need to Be Instead of Where You Want to Be

Whenever I make such decisions, I express gratitude to the higher power for guiding me. Making tough choices is never easy, but ultimately, it’s always worth it in the end.

Consider this: What if the creator orchestrates events in our lives to guide us onto the right path? Think about it for a moment. Have you ever experienced a life-altering event? Most likely, yes. What if such events occur to prompt us to pivot and align with our destined path? Imagine if we had never made those pivotal decisions and instead stayed on our original trajectory. Where would we be now? What opportunities and experiences would we have missed out on?

How would your life have turned out differently?

At the start of this year, everyone was forced to adapt. Many of us had to undergo significant changes in various aspects of life, including business, education, and daily routines. With schools closing and children needing to study from home, workplaces that previously resisted remote work had to reconsider. Some businesses had to shift entirely to digital operations, while restaurant owners were restricted to offering only takeout or delivery services. These changes represented major shifts for everyone involved.

Reflecting on the pivots we made this year, one of the most significant shifts was towards a more digital sales approach. Initially, this transition was challenging for us, as we thrived on face-to-face interactions and the energy of in-person meetings. Personally, adapting to conducting pieces of training via Zoom felt like speaking to a wall at times, despite my childhood knack for talking to anything, even a fence post! However, embracing the digital marketplace turned out to be one of our best decisions. It exponentially expanded our reach, allowing us to connect with over 1,000 times more people than before. This led to a steady increase in our client base, exceeding our expectations and enabling us to assist more individuals than ever before. If given the chance to do things differently, I would have embraced the shift to digital sooner, recognizing its immense potential for growth and impact.

Consider hiring a coach.

Another significant pivot we undertook was enlisting the support of a coach to guide us towards our goals. Despite experiencing growth, we recognized the need for external assistance to ensure we were progressing in the right direction. After thorough research and consultations with friends, we interviewed several coaches and ultimately hired one. It was a daunting but essential step for us. By holding ourselves accountable and learning from their guidance, we avoided the common pitfalls associated with pivoting. Hiring a coach proved to be incredibly beneficial, not only for our business but also on a personal level.

The final pivot I’ll discuss is the mental shift I underwent. I used to believe I was ineffective at sales, and unsurprisingly, I struggled to make sales. There were moments in meetings where I doubted my ability to close a deal, and as a result, I failed to secure sales. Conversely, I’ve also been in situations where I knew our product was the perfect fit for a client, and I approached those meetings with confidence. The difference in mindset made a tremendous impact. I’ve come to love sales because I firmly believe in the value our product offers. Having a positive mindset is crucial; if you believe you can achieve something, you will. Conversely, doubts can sabotage your efforts. Today, I approach sales with confidence, knowing that our service is genuinely beneficial to our clients and the world at large.

Have you ever had to make a choice—a pivot—in life that completely altered your outcome?

Numerous times, I’ve faced such pivotal decisions in life. Each time, I express gratitude to the higher powers for guiding me in making those tough choices. It’s never simple, but invariably, the outcome proves to be worth the struggle. These decisions consistently led me down the path I was meant to follow, even if it wasn’t the route I initially envisioned needing.

Ready to transform your leadership approach? Delve into ‘Making Those Tough Decisions‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at Eclipse DOT.

Put Others First

Posted on by dan_adm

My Origin Story (PART 3)

“It’s the timeless notion that prioritizes others before oneself. This principle has been ingrained in me since childhood. You value others above yourself, so ‘don’t fuss, dear; get on with it’.”

Audrey Hepburn

Why is prioritizing others so crucial, and how can we do it without neglecting our own aspirations? Let’s begin with a timeless source of wisdom: my all-time favorite book, the Bible.

In 1 Corinthians 10:24, Paul imparts this wisdom to the Corinthian church, emphasizing, “No one should seek their own good, but the good of others.”

Speaking of games, have you ever played Catan before?

If you haven’t played before, let me give you a quick overview. In Catan, you start by placing your village at the intersection of three commodities (there are five total commodities on the board), each with a number assigned to it. When someone rolls the number corresponding to your commodities, you collect those resources. These resources are used to build structures and acquire special cards.

The objective is to construct settlements, cities, and roads and accumulate enough experience points to end the game. Experience points are earned through building and other game actions.

Yesterday, as we played, my 10-year-old daughter found herself in an advantageous position, consistently acquiring various resources.

There were moments when she had so many resources that the bank actually ran out of cards for those commodities. She made a point to trade cards on her turn to prevent this from happening again.

In the game, trading is a key mechanic, requiring both parties to agree for a trade to occur. Despite this, everyone was eager to trade with her during the game, even when it didn’t always benefit them.

You might be wondering, “Dan, why encourage your daughter to make deals that don’t immediately benefit her?” Here’s the thing—she always had more than enough resources and chose to be generous, prolonging the game instead of ending it quickly. Her generosity paid off as others continued to trade with her, ensuring she received the cards she needed.

It was a lesson in the principle that the more she gave, the more she received.

 

How can we prioritize others’ needs over our own in simple ways?

  1. Allowing someone to go ahead of us in line is a straightforward gesture.
  2. Offering a ride even when it inconveniences us (like when we’re headed to church or work) is another way.
  3. Giving up our seats on public transport and standing instead shows consideration.
  4. Helping our neighbor by mowing their lawn, even if ours also needs attention, is a kind act.
  5. Choosing to let someone else have the last piece of pizza demonstrates generosity.
  6. Opting to walk so someone else can use our car showcases selflessness.
  7. Going a step further, giving our car to someone in need is a bold act of kindness.

Putting others first may seem easy, but it’s often challenging because we tend to be self-centered. If we don’t see immediate benefits for ourselves, it can be difficult to prioritize others.

Why do we work? To earn money for our livelihood.
Why do we own cars? To reach the destinations we desire.
Why do we engage in activities? We anticipate some form of personal benefit from them.
Given these natural inclinations, why should we prioritize others when our instincts push us to prioritize ourselves? How does prioritizing others lead to our success?
The game example illustrates this well, albeit on a small scale. If my daughter hadn’t traded her surplus cards with others, she wouldn’t have gained the resources she needed but lacked.
One crucial aspect to remember is that prioritizing others doesn’t mean neglecting ourselves. It’s about understanding that success and fulfillment often come from symbiotic relationships and collaborative efforts rather than purely self-serving actions.

Just as in airplane safety instructions: “In case of an emergency, oxygen masks will deploy from the ceiling. Please secure your mask before assisting others.”
This serves as a critical reminder.

Here’s the rephrased version:
First, if you’re unable to help yourself, how can you help others?
Let’s delve deeper into this.
It’s challenging and unwise for people to seek financial advice from someone who isn’t managing their finances well.
Consider this: Would you heed advice on overcoming credit card debt from someone deeply in debt themselves?

Here’s the rewritten version:
If someone offers advice on business growth but their own business is struggling, would you value their input?
Would you consider getting advice on enhancing your company’s culture from a leader whose culture doesn’t align with your goals?
In all honesty,
NOT A CHANCE!

It’s essential to ensure we’re on the right track before offering advice.
However, that doesn’t mean we can neglect others along the way. There are still ways we can offer help and support.

Tony Robbins suggests that if you dislike money, you may not have given away enough of it. Some might retort, “But he has so much money, so it’s easier for him to be generous.”

In the book of Mark, Jesus also touches on this idea. He sat down across from where people placed their offerings and observed as the crowd made their contributions to the temple treasury. Numerous wealthy individuals generously gave large sums.

However, a destitute widow arrived and contributed two small copper coins, worth only a few cents. Jesus, summoning his disciples, remarked, “Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has given more to the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their abundance, but she, out of her poverty, gave everything she had to live on.” (Mark 12:41-44) This remarkable woman had faith that God would continue to bless her and provide for her needs.

Today, I want to inspire everyone to actively seek opportunities to help others. Find someone who needs assistance and offer your help willingly. Identify individuals whom you can support and go the extra mile to assist them. By prioritizing the needs of others, you’ll experience personal growth beyond measure as you give more generously than ever before.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “The Gift Of Giving” Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Putting in the Work

Posted on by dan_adm

Putting in The Work

Ensure that you’re not merely riding on the coattails of someone else’s hard work. Make sure you dedicate the time and energy necessary to be proud of your accomplishments—every single day!

At some point in our careers, we’ve all benefited from riding on someone else’s success. But how long did that last, and did we truly gain anything from the experience? Likely, it didn’t endure for very long, and the lessons learned might have been minimal. If you do believe you learned a lot, take a moment to reflect on how much more you could have learned by creating your wave.

If you sense that you’re riding on someone else’s success, it’s essential to reassess the situation. Ask yourself a series of questions to gain clarity:

Am I living in alignment with my purpose?
What actions did I take to reach this point?
Do I genuinely deserve the recognition I’m receiving?
Have I invested the necessary time and effort to achieve this success?
What steps am I taking to progress to the next level?
Who am I impacting or influencing while in this position?

There are numerous questions you could consider; these are just a few that I reflect on personally.

One such question is: What is your purpose in life?

That’s a question I find myself pondering nearly every day: Why am I here on this earth, and what is my true purpose? For me, there are several answers to that question. One is that I’m here to spread the word of God while aiding others. Another reason is to encourage growth and progress, both in myself and in those around me. I strive to be a supportive father, husband, and friend. After reminding myself of my purpose, I reflect on whether I’m truly living up to it. I consider what actions I can take to better align with my purpose. What about you? What is your purpose?

How did I arrive at this point?

One of the more challenging questions to tackle, in my opinion, is: How did I end up here? In my corporate days, I often pondered this question while traveling, staying in luxurious hotels, enjoying fine dining, and meeting remarkable individuals. Among all the employees, why was I chosen for this position? Why me? Upon deeper reflection, I realized it was both a blessing and a burden. While I relished the perks of my job, I also grappled with its drawbacks. Spending 50% of my time on the road meant missing out on 50% of my children’s lives and being away from my wife. Luxurious hotels meant sacrificing the comfort of my own bed and the intimacy of cuddling with my wife. Indulging in gourmet meals took a toll on my health as I traveled across the country weekly, longing for home-cooked meals and family dinners. However, the opportunity to meet extraordinary people was an undeniable highlight, enriching my experience and allowing me to assist others whom I might never have encountered otherwise.

I’ve also experienced riding on someone else’s success in the past, only to realize it was short-lived. I found myself in a place I thought I wanted to be, but it wasn’t where I truly needed to be. I hadn’t invested the time and effort required for lasting success. Have you ever found yourself in a similar situation, seeking a shortcut to a “get-rich-quick” life without putting in the necessary work?

What actions did I take to deserve this recognition or success?

I find myself asking this question every day, especially when good things happen. Did I truly put in the effort to earn this, or am I simply accepting a gift? Throughout my career, I’ve encountered individuals who constantly seek handouts rather than opportunities to improve themselves. Personally, as a naturally giving person, it’s challenging for me to witness this behavior. I’ve come to understand that some individuals become so accustomed to receiving without effort that they cease to strive for improvement. I’ve been in that position before, and I’m determined not to return to it. I prefer receiving a “hand-up”—advice and encouragement to help me stand on my own two feet—rather than undeserved gifts.

One example from my past stands out: a manager offered me a jacket as a reward. Instead of accepting it immediately, I proposed a challenge: give me two weeks to complete a project to their expectations. If successful, I would gladly accept the jacket; if not, they could keep it. This approach served two purposes: it made me accountable and provided a tangible reward for a job well done, while also incentivizing my boss to offer more rewards in the future. Reflecting on your own experiences, have you ever accepted a gift that you felt you didn’t deserve?

Have I invested the necessary time and effort to reach this point?

If you tend to be hard on yourself, your initial response to this question may be “no.” When I ask myself this question, my initial inclination is often the same. However, upon further reflection, I realize that I may be too harsh in my self-assessment. To determine if I truly put in the necessary time and effort, I consider some additional questions.

Firstly, I assess how much effort I’ve dedicated to the project, rather than solely focusing on the duration of time spent on it. There’s a significant distinction between the two. Some of my projects have remained incomplete for years, not due to a lack of time but because I haven’t invested much effort in them.

Secondly, I reflect on my level of dedication to the project. This is a question only I can answer, as my dedication greatly influences the outcome and reflects the true effort I’ve put forth.

Lastly, I question whether I genuinely believe in the project. There have been instances where I’ve found myself working on projects, I had little faith in, resulting in minimal effort. Alternatively, there have been times when I failed to take the initiative to understand the project fully, leading to a lack of effort in promoting or completing it.

What steps am I taking to advance to the next level?

Everything we do should be aimed at propelling us to the next level. Otherwise, what’s the point? Let’s take a moment to reminisce about the Miro brothers from our childhood. When we played, why did we smash every block? To collect coins or gain a mushroom. Why did we raise each flag? So, we wouldn’t have to start from scratch every time we failed. Life is akin to a game in many ways. Every action we take serves a purpose, even if we don’t realize it at first. I’m constantly pondering how to progress to the next stage of my life and what my ultimate goal is. Sure, I make mistakes every day. There are days where I misjudge, like jumping on a turtle only to have it rebound and make me small again. But I don’t see these moments as failures; I see them as opportunities for growth. Consider what you’re doing to propel yourself to the next level.

Who am I impacting while I’m here?

We all exert influence on others every day, whether we realize it or not. Even when we’re not physically interacting with anyone, our actions still have an impact on someone. For instance, my wife and I have a rule when it comes to posting pictures on social media: we ask ourselves, “What kind of memories will these pictures evoke in 1–10 years?” If they won’t bring back positive memories, we refrain from posting them. We cherish the memories that resurface on our feeds and strive to maintain a positive image for our followers. It’s not about portraying a fake life; it’s about showcasing our real experiences.

During my travels for previous jobs, I often reflected on the influence I had on others during each trip and whether it was positive. I regret to admit that there were instances where I had to apologize on my next trip for not being a positive influence. What kind of influence are you exerting on those around you? Take a moment to review your old posts and consider how you can improve your communication with your community.

Ultimately, you are the only one who can determine whether you’re putting in the work. It’s up to you, and you alone, to assess whether you’ve truly made the effort or simply coasted on someone else’s hard work. Instead of constantly seeking handouts, strive to be the person who offers a hand to those around you.

Ready to Transform Your Leadership Approach? Delve into ‘YOU HAVE TO BE WILLING TO PUT IN THE WORK‘ and enhance your skills. Follow our expert insights on this transformative journey. Explore more now at Eclipse DOT.

Serving Your Tribe!

Posted on by dan_adm

Serving Your Tribe!

Today, we’re delving deeper into the art of serving your tribe, understanding the essence of a tribe, and the crucial role of keeping God at the center of it all.

Let’s begin by understanding what a tribe entails.

Traditionally, when the term “tribe” is mentioned, thoughts often drift to the Native Americans.

This association is prevalent in many schools across the United States, including the ones I attended. However, I propose a shift in perspective.

According to Webster’s dictionary, a tribe is defined as a group of individuals sharing common characteristics, occupations, or interests. 
By this definition, we encounter numerous tribes in our lives.
For instance, I consider myself part of the tribes led by Russell Brunson and Tony Robbins, as well as those comprising my family, church, and colleagues at Eclipse DOT and DOT Docs. Additionally, readers of our devotionals at God First Life undoubtedly belong to our tribe.

Each of us is involved in multiple tribes, and some may even find themselves leading several, although it might not be immediately apparent.

Now, let’s delve into the heart of the matter.
Are you prepared?

Alright, let’s explore how you can serve your tribe. There are myriad ways to help and support others.

Jesus demonstrated service through various acts during his life. One notable example is his performance of miracles, showcasing compassion and power to help others in need. Additionally, he humbly washed the feet of his disciples, setting an example of servanthood and humility for all believers to follow.

Moreover, his sacrifice on the cross was undoubtedly a service to all of humanity. So, how can you also serve your tribe?

Let’s delve into the tribes I’m part of and how I contribute to them. Perhaps this will inspire some ideas for you as well.

My Family: This group is undoubtedly one that I am deeply committed to, making it effortless to serve them.

I serve my family by striving to provide them with the best life possible. This involves working diligently, being present for special occasions, helping whenever needed, guiding them to develop their core values, imparting a solid foundation for their lives, and allowing them to experience failure as a means of learning and growth. Perhaps I should consider writing a full devotional on this topic—sounds like a plan!

These are just some of the ways I serve my immediate family. But it’s important to remember that my family extends beyond just my wife and kids.

It extends to my parents, brother, my wife’s parents, and brothers. Then, it reaches out to our grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. Further still, it encompasses my grandparents’ siblings, their children, and their grandchildren. The family network continues to expand!

You’ve got the idea.

Serving our families can keep us plenty occupied, especially with teenagers around, ha-ha! Another tribe I serve is our Eclipse DOT and DOT Docs community.

These include our employees and their families, our customers and their families, potential customers and their families, the vendors we collaborate with and their families, the groups we support and their families, and many others!

You might be wondering why everyone’s family is included in who we serve. Let me explain.

Let’s say you receive that dreaded letter from the federal government stating that you are undergoing a DOT audit. It might cause a little stress, am I right?

You know I’m right.

Then what happens to that stress? You take it home with you, right? (Again, you know I’m right.) So, by removing that stress from you, our team and level of service are positively impacting our clients’ families.

The level of service we provide to the people in those tribes is significant! That’s why we don’t take it lightly. Now, what about our communities?

How can we serve them? Well, there are simple ways, such as volunteering for clean-up efforts or assisting anyone in our community who is in need.

We often witness people, especially around the holidays, volunteering at soup kitchens for a day or participating in roadside clean-up events once or twice a year. However, there are other ways to serve our local community as well.
 
One simple way is to observe a need and address it. When you encounter litter on the ground, whether it’s in a ditch, a park, or outside your home, take a moment to pick it up and dispose of it properly.

Perhaps you could offer a bit of money to someone who appears hungry, allowing them to purchase a meal. Often, those who need assistance the most may be too proud or scared to ask for it openly.

Therefore, rather than seeking out the beggar on the corner, take a closer look within your community to identify those who genuinely require help.

I could talk endlessly about serving your tribe, but I’ll refrain. One final point I’d like to emphasize about serving your tribe is to think outside the box.

Many of us seek the “easy” way out. (I know I do every single day!) However, when it comes to serving others, creativity is key. Avoid following the crowd. Instead, strive to go above and beyond, overdelivering on every tribe you’re a part of.

It’s time to spring into action!

It’s action time once more! Here’s your task: Firstly, identify the tribes you belong to.

Take a moment to jot them down. Seriously, I’ll wait…

Alright, now make a quick list of the ways you’re already serving them.
What are you waiting for? Go ahead and write them down. (You can set a timer for 2 minutes if it helps, and jot down everything you can until it goes off.)

Got it?

Perfect!

Now, here’s the challenging part. For each tribe, brainstorm one out-of-the-box idea to enhance your service to them.

Here is mine:

Tribes: Family, Eclipse DOT/DOT Docs, God First Life, Community

Family: Set a quitting time each day and never work past that time. Set a time when I no longer answer work calls on my phone. Take them with me more on work trips. Do something special for each kid and Jenna.

Eclipse DOT/DDOT Docs: I do everything I can to make each team member feel like family. (Not the bad family, but the ones you truly want to spend time with.) Lead by example for our clients and team. Think of ways to serve our tribe. Ask them how we can serve them better.

God First Life: continue to bring devotionals to them weekly. Daily post scriptures on social media. Never stop talking about God first. Show my love for God in everything that I do. Bring more events to our area.

Local Community: Give back more! Continue to be a leader in 4-H. When I see someone in need, don’t hesitate to help them.

Outside the box:

Family: Teach Nathen to drive a standard transmission. Support Billy with his falconry dreams. Be there for Brianna in her crafts and encourage her to continue to start tons of projects. Guide Jacob to learn his true potential (that kid has some major charisma). Take more walks with Jenna, slow down, and be present when I am with her.

Eclipse DOT/DDOT Docs: Go the extra mile, even if it costs more.

God First Life: Write a book about keeping God first in every aspect of your life.

Local Community: Be looking for the opportunity to serve. I know that God has huge plans for us. So, I need to be ready to take act when he calls.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Serving Your Tribe” Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Set Your Goals High This Year

Posted on by dan_adm

Set your goals high this year!

“Set a goal that captivates your mind, invigorates your spirit, and ignites your aspirations, and happiness will follow.” Andrew Carnegie

It’s that time of year again when we typically start making “New Year’s Resolutions.” But this year, I’m urging you to do something different. Instead of setting resolutions, I want you to set ambitious goals! Yes, you heard me right—audacious goals.

I want you to set goals that would make even the likes of Bill Gates, Tony Robbins, Mark Zuckerberg, and yes, even Donald Trump, say, “Wow, I wish I had goals that big!”

Here are a couple of compelling reasons why you should ditch the resolutions and opt for big, audacious, and scary goals.

Firstly, let’s consider how long most people stick with their resolutions. Resolutions are often easier to break than goals. A goal is something we actively work towards. And even if we don’t reach our goal entirely, we’ve still made progress, which is far better than not starting at all.

The second reason is that resolutions tend to lack specificity compared to goals. When we resolve to get into better shape, it’s a great intention. But how often do we go to the gym or work out at home consistently? With a goal, like aiming to do 50 pushups or 100 sit-ups, or to jog for 30 minutes straight, we get specific. This specificity makes it easier to track our progress and stay motivated.

The third reason to abandon resolutions in favor of goals is accountability. When you set a goal, you naturally hold yourself more accountable. At work, during those “water cooler” conversations, everyone often discusses their resolutions and how long they lasted. With goals, there’s a greater sense of commitment and accountability to follow through.

Interestingly, hearing about your peers’ struggles with their resolutions can subconsciously make it easier for you to abandon yours as well. It’s as if their lack of commitment permits you to do the same.

When you set goals instead, your mind doesn’t associate them with the struggles of holding resolutions. Goals, unlike resolutions, signify a higher level of commitment and determination. Consequently, it becomes more challenging for you to quit early or give up.

Here are some tips for setting exceptional goals that you can realistically achieve.

1. Dare to set ambitious, even intimidating, goals. If you don’t dream big, you’ll never achieve it. Did Steve Jobs envision Apple as a company with just one product, the Mac Plus? Absolutely not! He aimed to revolutionize creativity worldwide.

2. Establish reward milestones. These should be tangible markers of your progress. For instance, if your goal is to lose 20 pounds, celebrate when you reach 5, 10, 15, 17.5, and finally, 20 pounds lost.

Bear in mind that your rewards shouldn’t contradict your goal. For example, rewarding yourself with a cake for losing 5 pounds might undermine your progress. Instead, consider rewards like a weekend getaway once you’ve gained five new customers—these should align with your long-term objectives.

Each reward you establish should correspond to an achievement. For instance, when you reach 5 pounds lost, treat yourself to a healthy lunch outing. At 10 pounds, consider taking a day off from exercising. When you achieve the 20-pound milestone, reward yourself with something significant, like that bike you’ve always wanted but hesitated to purchase. These rewards serve as incentives to keep you motivated and committed to your success.

3.Share your goals with the world! One of the most effective ways to stay motivated and accountable is by sharing your goals with others. After all, if your goals remain a secret, how will anyone know if you don’t achieve them?

When you share your goals and deadlines with others, it boosts your motivation and keeps you focused on the path to success. I always begin by discussing my goals with my wife.

Without the support of your spouse, partner, or significant other, it’s challenging to even begin pursuing your goals. When they’re involved, they become your foremost source of encouragement, especially during challenging times.

Following that, I share my goals with my children. It’s surprising how their reminders, like “Daddy, are we still going on that vacation when you reach 20 clients?” or “How many clients did you say we need for our Disney World trip?” keep me motivated and accountable.

Then, I discuss my goals with my circle of influencers. When they’re aware of your aspirations, they become invested in your success. With a supportive circle, achieving your goals becomes more attainable as they actively work to help you reach your desired destination.

4. Finally, I announce my goals to the world via social media. Although I rarely disclose my financial goals there, I share many others. Typically, I share my big, audacious goals because those are the ones where I need the most support and encouragement.

Well, folks, that’s all for now. I hope you take what you’ve read here to heart and ditch those resolutions in favor of setting some audacious goals!

Go out there and create an impact.

P.S. One of my greatest aspirations is to expand the reach of our brands and businesses to over 1 million people within the next 5 years. As a reward, I plan to treat my entire family to a once-in-a-lifetime trip that will be enjoyed by all. (While I haven’t decided on the destination or activities yet, rest assured that I’ll keep you updated as we approach this milestone!)

Email me with your biggest goals at Dan@Eclispe-DOT.com.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Do You Set Goals?“. Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Solomon’s business principals Part 2

Posted on by dan_adm

Solomon’s Business Principals PART 2

Illegitimately obtained bread may taste sweet at first, but in the end, it leaves a mouthful of gravel.

Today, we’ll approach things in a slightly different way. Let’s begin with a brief prayer:

Lord God, we thank You for the incredible leaders documented throughout our history. Please open our minds to your wisdom and knowledge.

Amen, in Jesus’ name!

This week, we’ll further explore King Solomon’s business principles. Keep in mind that even if you’re not in business, these principles can still enrich your daily life. You can apply the wisdom shared in this devotional. The second principle is about working wisely.

“The most important thing is wisdom; so acquire wisdom, and whatever you acquire, gain understanding.” (Proverbs 4:7)

Hard work alone isn’t sufficient; working smart is also crucial. You must enrich both your business and your life with wisdom, just as you do with money, because wisdom is a protective shield, much like money. (Ecclesiastes 7:12)

The vast majority of new businesses will not succeed, and this holds true for businesses started by Christians as well. The numbers might be shocking.

According to the statistics I found, 97% of all startup businesses fail within the first year. Among the remaining 3% that survive, only 1% will reach the 5-year mark. And out of that small fraction (I’m not great at math either), only 1% will endure for 10 years.

If I’ve crunched the numbers correctly, the odds of launching a business that lasts 10 years are a mere 0.003%. This chance doesn’t change, even if the business is founded with noble intentions and a commitment to glorify God.

Becoming a successful entrepreneur necessitates acquiring the expertise and insight to identify and seize opportunities wisely and diligently in our work.

The third principle he emphasized was the pursuit of excellence. “Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings.” (Proverbs 22:29)

Don’t settle for being merely satisfactory. You have the power to set your standard of excellence, so set it high and maintain it there.

In his first speech to the Green Bay Packers, who had finished last season, the legendary football coach Vince Lombardi famously said, “Gentlemen, we will chase perfection, and we will chase it relentlessly, knowing all the while we can never attain it. But along the way, we shall catch excellence.”

Soon after, the Green Bay Packers went on to win multiple Super Bowls, fueled by their commitment to setting high standards and striving for excellence, not settling for mediocrity.

Consider this for a moment: would you prefer to hire a plumber who is just adequate, or would you prefer to hire the absolute best?

Of course, we all want the best! We don’t want water seeping into our basements every time someone showers or flushes the toilet.

So, set your standard of excellence higher than you imagine possible and work towards it diligently every single day.

His fourth principle emphasized working proactively. “In all labor, there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty.” (Proverbs 14:23)

While careful planning is beneficial, ultimately, action is required. You’ve heard me stress this repeatedly: The first crucial step is taking action! Without it, progress remains stagnant.

Consider this analogy: If you want to reach town, the initial step is moving toward the door, followed by another step, and then another. The pattern continues.

Many businesses struggle to grow or collapse entirely due to their inability or reluctance to act decisively.

How often do you receive ideas from God but fail to act upon them? Personally, it’s a daily struggle for me.

There are moments when he prompts me to reach out to a potential client, but I hold back. Or he nudges me to visit someone, yet I drive past their house without stopping.

I don’t always act on every prompting He gives me. How about you? Are you proactive in taking decisive action?

Solomon serves as a great example of proactive behavior, continuously building and consistently pursuing the next venture. (1 Kings 7).

His fifth principle emphasized the importance of being honest at all times. “Dishonest scales are an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is His delight.” (Proverbs 11:1)

Character plays a vital role. Honesty in business should be an unwavering standard.

Consider whom you would prefer to hire: an honest person or a dishonest one? If you know me, you know that honesty has been a guiding principle for me for quite some time now.

However, it wasn’t always my main principle. There was a time when I would conceal the truth or present only part of the story to avoid trouble or appear better. Then, something changed within me, and I began taking full responsibility for my mistakes.

You know what happened next? I found even greater success. Yes, I had to admit my faults more often, and I faced reprimands from others. Yet, in the end, God always shielded me from lasting harm.

As Proverbs warns, “Bread gained by deceit is sweet to a man; but afterward, his mouth will be filled with gravel.” (Proverbs 20:17)

Honesty isn’t just crucial in individual interactions but also in addressing broader societal issues.

Recall the last time you felt tempted to embellish the truth to avoid embarrassment. How did you manage that situation?

“Whoever oppresses the poor to increase his wealth…will come to poverty.” (Proverbs 22:16)

Solomon’s reign was marked by generosity and a generous heart towards all. (1 Kings 4:29)

Honesty goes hand in hand with giving, aligning with God’s desire for us to be truthful and generous at all times.

On a related note, if you can’t request something face-to-face, you probably don’t deserve it. Never seek wealth through deceitful means, like leaving a note! God condemns such dishonesty, which is why such requests don’t hold weight in person.

Now, take action. Reflect on the principles we’ve discussed. Where can you improve? Personally, I see room for improvement in all of them.

When preparing to engage with someone, pause and ask yourself, “Who would I prefer to do business with? What qualities would I value in that person?” Then, go out and embody those qualities yourself.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “A Guiding Light in Proverbs 4“. Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Solomon’s Principals Part 3

Posted on by dan_adm

Solomon’s Principals PART 3

“As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17). Today, we’ll delve deeper into the principles of Solomon’s wisdom, focusing on what I call business and personal life principles.

Let’s start, as we did last week, with a quick prayer:

Lord God, today we seek your guidance to open our eyes, hearts, minds, and whole beings to absorb your wisdom deeply. Help us align our bodies and souls with your will, allowing us to hear and understand exactly what you intend for us. We ask this in the name of your precious son.

Amen.

Alright then, let’s dive back in.

Solomon’s sixth principle emphasizes using debt sparingly. In business, cash reigns supreme, echoing Solomon’s wisdom: “Money answers everything” (Ecclesiastes 7:12). Maintaining a cash reserve or savings can alleviate significant stress.

Use debt judiciously for essential capital items, but avoid it for operating expenses such as salaries and routine costs. Otherwise, you risk becoming a servant to the lender, working on their terms rather than yours (Proverbs 22:7).

In personal finance, many of us tend to overextend ourselves with credit cards, although that might not be everyone’s experience.

However, we’ve certainly been there in the past, and we strive to prevent it from happening again.

If you find yourself in credit card debt, there are ways to get out of it, but it requires diligence, hard work, and prayer—all three are essential.

Solomon’s seventh principle emphasizes working cooperatively, as stated in Proverbs 27:17: “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.”

Create strategic business alliances with others, enabling you to access reliable resources swiftly to meet client demands. Solomon exemplified this with King Hiram of Lebanon, resulting in mutual benefits that elevated Israel’s economic status and made Jerusalem a global showcase.

We can apply this principle in our personal lives through networking. You might have heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know.” However, I believe it’s more about “who knows you” than who you know!

Let me illustrate this with a great example.

Suppose I’m seeking funding, and I mention that I know Elon Musk (the founder of Tesla, SpaceX, PayPal, etc.). It’s not untrue—I do know of him. In fact, I also know Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, Tony Robbins, and others. I could even share some details about their backgrounds.

However, the truth is, they don’t know me!

So, if the people I’m seeking funding from approach Elon and ask, “What do you think of this Dan Greer guy? Is he any good?” Elon would likely respond, “Who? I’ve never heard of that person!”

The lesson here is that by building genuine relationships and consistently delivering more than we promise, we expand our network and strengthen our connections.

This brings us to his eighth principle:

Cultivate relationships with trusted professionals.

Proverbs 15:22 highlights the importance of seeking counsel: “Without counsel, plans go awry, but in the multitude of counselors, they are established.”

Recognize the value of acknowledging that you don’t have all the answers, especially when you’re unaware of what you don’t know. Build strong connections with legal, financial, IT, and other professionals you trust. Utilize these relationships effectively to anticipate and address potential problems proactively.

Another important aspect to keep in mind is to consistently adopt a servant mindset.

It’s common for us to overlook serving others before seeking their assistance. We often expect others to go above and beyond to make our lives easier without offering a helping hand to make theirs easier first.

The key is to initiate relationships by serving others genuinely. Additionally, always strive to exceed expectations. If you commit to something, follow through with action!

For instance, if you promise to pray for someone, involve your whole family in praying for them.

In today’s society, we need more individuals who underpromise and overdeliver. Strive to be that person in each of your relationships.

Let’s take action!

Today, we urge you to implement each principle you’ve learned into your personal life:

  1. Be Diligent and Work Hard: Put in the effort and dedication required for success.
  2. Work wisely: Opt for smart strategies over unnecessary toil.
  3. Pursue Excellence: Strive to excel in all endeavors, giving your best at all times.
  4. Work Proactively: Take initiative and avoid procrastination by jumping into tasks promptly.
  5. Be Honest—Always: Integrity is crucial, both in God’s eyes and in building trustworthy relationships.
  6. Use Debt Sparingly: Exercise financial prudence by minimizing reliance on borrowed funds.
  7. Work cooperatively: Collaboration with others is vital for growth and prosperity.

Lastly, always aim to overdeliver! If you commit to finding 10 new contacts, go the extra mile and secure 15 or even 20 new connections. Your dedication and commitment will set you apart and lead to greater success.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Solomon’s Principals Part 3“. Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Solomon’s Wisdom Part 1.

Posted on by dan_adm

Solomon’s Wisdom PART 1

A lazy person will become poor, but diligent hands will bring wealth (Proverbs 10:4).

In the upcoming weeks, we’ll be diving into King Solomon’s business principles. The main reason is that I’ve been fascinated by them and am surprised we don’t cover them annually.

Well, here’s the exciting part: you’ll be learning them from me! If business isn’t your cup of tea, no worries!

Just kidding! Even if business isn’t your thing, these principles are incredibly valuable for all aspects of life. Whether it’s managing finances, choosing a career path, or how you approach daily tasks, these principles apply across the board. You might be thinking, “Well, I’m retired,” or “I’m a stay-at-home parent.” That’s fantastic—these principles are still applicable to your everyday life. So, let’s dive in!

Let’s begin by exploring some key FACTS about Solomon. Firstly, he was renowned for his wisdom. In 1 Kings, he offered sacrifices to God, who then appeared to him in a dream, offering to grant Solomon any request he desired—whether it be wealth, power, land, or riches. However, Solomon’s response was unexpected…

Rather than requesting wealth or power, Solomon asked for WISDOM. God was pleased with this selfless request and personally granted Solomon great wisdom because he didn’t seek selfish rewards like long life or the downfall of his enemies.

One of the most famous demonstrations of his wisdom is seen in the Judgment of Solomon (1 Kings 3:16-28), where two women both claimed to be the mother of the same child. Solomon ingeniously resolved the dispute by suggesting to cut the child in half and share it between them, revealing the true mother’s love and prompting Solomon’s wise decision to preserve the child’s life.

One of the women quickly withdrew her claim, demonstrating that she would rather give up the child than see it harmed. Recognizing her compassion, Solomon declared her the true mother, granting her full custody of the child.

Traditionally, Solomon is credited as the author of several biblical books, including not only Proverbs but also Ecclesiastes and the Song of Solomon, along with the later apocryphal book, the Wisdom of Solomon (which is not included in the Bible).

Enough about his credentials—let’s delve into his teachings! Are you excited? Because I definitely am! Solomon lived by ten fundamental principles. The first one is: Be Diligent and Work Hard. “A slack hand leads to poverty, but the hand of the diligent brings wealth” (Proverbs 10:4). There’s no substitute for a strong work ethic.

Some perceive business owners after they’ve achieved success and assume that progressing in business or life must be effortless. However, those in the field understand that establishing and managing a successful business demands more effort than any other profession. Additionally, there’s the weight of responsibility, especially when supporting a family, which comes with its own set of fears.

What if things don’t go as planned? What if I fail? What if…? These uncertainties aren’t for those lacking a strong dedication to work. As Solomon noted in Proverbs 20:4, “The lazy person will not plow during the planting season; at harvest time they look, but find nothing.”

While hard work is crucial, it’s not the only factor for success. Many believe that working harder is the key to success, but the reality is that working smarter is essential. This mindset may take some time to adjust to. Personally, I grew up in a household that valued hard work. My dad was up and out the door before any of us kids woke up, and there were nights (although not many) when he returned home well after dark.

Afterward, he would tend to the cows and complete other chores before returning home to spend time with the family. I’m grateful for my dad’s hard work, and my mom worked even harder to ensure us kids didn’t drive each other crazy before he came home. Lol. However, this doesn’t mean it’s the only way to support your family.

As a business owner, I understand this well. Working long hours and struggling to find a stopping point can become all too familiar. Interestingly, when we immerse ourselves in something we’re passionate about, it doesn’t feel like work anymore.

Take Nathen, our son, for instance.

Nathen has a passion for TV, and you might be quick to judge us as parents because of that. However, your opinion doesn’t matter much to me since you don’t know the full story. Moving on…

Nathen is an amazing kid, and there was a phase when he was really interested in becoming a ventriloquist. Naturally, he dove headfirst into learning about it, watching numerous instructional videos to master the skill.

He practiced diligently, constantly improving his technique through repetition. The key with Nathen is that when he becomes interested in something, he dedicates a significant amount of time to learning, practicing, and eventually performing it.

Through his ventriloquism journey, Nathen realized that while he didn’t have a passion for ventriloquism itself, he absolutely loved making people laugh. The takeaway from this story is that when we embark on something new, we become enthusiastic, work hard, and acquire a wealth of knowledge about the subject. Solomon would agree—it’s a commendable trait.

Let’s Take Action!

Today, I want to inspire you to take action regarding your work ethic. Reflect on a project you initiated—did you see it through to completion? (If you’re anything like me, the answer might be “not always”! I tend to get a project to a functional stage and let it run rather than refining it.)

If you did finish, that’s fantastic! What motivated you to persist until completion? If not, what hindered your progress? It’s worth pondering these questions to improve your work ethic moving forward.

What insights did you gain from that project? Are there any adjustments you could make to streamline the process in the future?

As you approach your next project, what steps will you take to guarantee its completion or at least reach the “functional” stage? It’s valuable to reflect on these questions to enhance your project management strategies.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “True Wisdom Is More Than Knowledge?“. Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

Speaking Up

Posted on by dan_adm

Speaking Up

Expressing oneself isn’t always effortless, even for someone like me.

If you knew me as a kid, you’re likely thinking, “Yeah, right, Dan. You’ve never struggled to speak your mind.”

You might be correct, or at least it may appear that way. But the truth is, speaking up can be learned.

I used to fear discussing my love for God and Jesus openly. I was apprehensive that I’d face judgment and that others might lose faith in me because I believe in God.

The complete opposite unfolded. Once I took a firm stance and began vocalizing my beliefs, individuals either ceased following me or engaged in even more communication.

Some of you may have only picked up on the fact that people stopped following me and are fixating on that. But let it go. Those who choose to pretend they don’t know me simply because I stood up for my beliefs. Well, guess what? They weren’t adding any genuine value to my life anyway.

Another endeavor I embarked on was speaking on stage. If you knew me growing up, you might say, “Dan, you’ve never struggled with being in front of people.”

In fact, my brother might jestingly say I’m a spotlight hog. Just kidding, Rusty. (Well, kind of, ha-ha.)

The truth is, I adore being in front of people and sharing my message, provided that I know the message is genuine and I wholeheartedly believe in it.

I’ve had the privilege of speaking on stages where renowned country performers have also stood, right here in Reno, NV, addressing crowds of over 500 people. Additionally, I’ve spoken at venues such as the city auditorium in Spokane, Washington, as well as in front of smaller congregations and youth groups.

The size of the stage or the size of the crowd doesn’t affect the butterflies I feel before stepping out to speak. Recently, the most challenging “stage” for me was standing behind the podium at our small local church.

Despite the audience numbering fewer than 10 people, I found it challenging to feel at ease, even though I repeated the experience for two consecutive weeks and had my message meticulously planned out. 
Here’s the crucial step to stepping onto the stage and facing an audience: 

Just do it.

If the pastor requests that you fill in for him while he takes a well-deserved break, seize the opportunity.

When an old friend reaches out and asks you to give a toast at their birthday celebration or wedding, embrace the chance and do it.

Once you take that initial step, the subsequent actions tend to flow more easily. If your high school teacher requests that you speak a few words at the class reunion, seize the opportunity.

The essence is clear: if you desire to pursue something, you must say yes. The most challenging aspect of taking action is taking that first step.

Finally, to ensure your voice is heard, you must speak out. Don’t linger in the shadows of others who are expressing their thoughts.
 
Stand tall, speak boldly, and be articulate. And guess what happens next?
People begin to listen! It’s truly remarkable.

Here are just a few of the insecurities I grapple with every time I speak.

1. What if I’m mistaken?

Who cares!

If you misspeak and later discover the correct answer, own up to your mistake in front of everyone—eat that humble pie and relish every bite.

After you finish your meal, do you know what’s going to happen? Everyone who witnessed you eat crow and do so with dignity will admire what you say that much more.

2. I lack the proficiency to speak in front of people.

Moses expressed similar concerns to God when he was sent back to Egypt to speak to the pharaoh, saying, “God, I’m not eloquent with words.”

If Moses could aid in freeing the Israelites from years and years of slavery, you could also effectively convey your message.

3. Nobody is interested in hearing what I have to say.

Alright, you may have a point, but does it really matter? Stop fretting over others’ opinions and just get it done.

Whether or not others approve of you speaking up, what truly matters is that you believe in yourself. Do it for yourself!

4. I’m incapable of doing it, and everyone will perceive me as foolish.

We’ve all heard the saying, “Better to be thought an idiot than to open your mouth and prove them right.”

But frankly, that’s nonsense.

I’ll borrow the words from a great country song: “If you never stand for anything, you’ll fall for everything.”
Don’t let fear of others’ opinions hold you back. Ultimately, their views aren’t what counts.

Alright, I’m stepping down from my soapbox. Hopefully, you can seize yours and have the courage to stand atop it and share your message without fear.

Thanks for striking me with this one. And to learn more about my faith, check out www.GodFirstLifeNExt.org to read our weekly devotionals.

Stay safe out there and make your voice heard, unless you happen to disagree with me. Just kidding, ha-ha.

Enhance your faith-led leadership journey with God First Life Next. Explore empowering insights at “Encouraging Self-Empowerment: Inner Dialogue” Let faith guide your leadership. Click for purposeful living at GodFirstLifeNext.org.

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