Three Minute Leadership- Resting on Laurels or Dreaming More
To: The Great Leaders Who Have a Passion for Continuous Learning
In a recent article, Don’t Rest on Laurels, Brian Cavanaugh, public speaker, tells a story of Napoleon and one of his field marshals, that poignantly demonstrates the great leaders’ mindset in their relentless and passionate pursuit of ‘something more’ beyond the expected.
“One day a field marshal requested an audience with Napoleon, and Napoleon knew what was coming. But as every good leader must, Napoleon agreed to hear him out. The field marshal brought news of a great victory he had achieved. He talked for a long time about his accomplishment, piling detail upon detail. Napoleon listened closely throughout the entire narration, but said nothing. The officer was disappointed. He had hoped for a more enthusiastic reception, as well as Napoleon’s congratulations. Neither was forthcoming.
“Summing up, the marshal repeated much of what he had already stated. As the officer rambled on, Napoleon continued to listen politely, and the marshal interpreted this as encouragement. Surely, he thought, Napoleon will now give me the praise I so richly deserve. When the marshal finally stopped talking, Napoleon asked him one question: ‘What did you do the next day?’ The field marshal was speechless. But the lesson was not lost on him. From then on, the officer understood that he should never rest on his laurels. So he left it to others to bestow the praise.”
Steve Jobs once said: “I think if you do something and it turns out pretty good, then you should go do something else wonderful, not dwell on it for too long. Just figure out what’s next.” It is this beautiful mindset of continually moving from the wonderful in search of the extraordinary. There is also something greater and more exciting that what you have already accomplished. There is always something more majestic behind the mountain waiting to challenge us to become something more and find something more by doing something more. That is the joy of life – never to be satisfied with what has been accomplished, but continually be seeking something more. Always remember: “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” Enjoy your life to its fullest… dream more, turn your dreams into reality … and have fun doing it.
Have a beautiful day and an awesome week!!!
Mike