Recently, I attended the “Get Motivated” seminar in Raleigh and had the pleasure of seeing and listening to Rudy Giuliani, Colin Powell, Krish Dunham, and Steve Forbes among others.  These men are leaders among leaders and spoke of things beyond just motivation.  The day was a reminder of things that are important and even necessary for a successful business life.  Here are a few of the highlights:

Dr. Robert Schuller said “Cut the word impossible out of your life.”

Steve Forbes advised “Do something unusual.”

Rudy Giuliani suggested “Take advantage of technology or be left behind.”  It will make you more productive.  One drawback to the information revolution, as he described it, is that the constant inflow of information creates a false sense of urgency.  He also made the point that too many public opinion polls lead to the loss of leaders because leaders become followers when they make decisions based on polling data.

Krish Dunham spoke about the spiritual side of success.  He said, “Sometimes before we speed up, we need to slow down.”  We need to realize many things including the fact that we still live in the land of opportunity.  Poor immigrants like he was still come to America to change their future.  We have the same chance as anyone else to do so.

Bob Kittell noted that “action is what separates the successful from the unsuccessful.”

Zig Zigler told the audience to “never stop learning.”

Colin Powell had many pertinent points, but the most memorable quote was “Go through life looking through the windshield, not the rearview.”  He also said to ask “What purpose do we serve?” and to inspire others.

I would add a few more ideas that came to my mind through and since that day:

• Don’t just do it, do it right.  Sometimes it takes more than one try to get it right, so keep trying.
• Great leaders don’t panic when the situation changes dramatically.  Panicking is a waste of energy and only accomplishes spreading it around and annoying the calmer people around you.
• Great leaders are optimists, but keep a firm grasp on reality.
• Great leaders consult with wise people and are not afraid to admit that they can’t/don’t know everything.
• Great leaders reach out to other great leaders.  The famous philosophy is “no man is an island.”
• Great leaders dare to be different without fear of disapproval.  You can’t please everyone all of the time.
• Great leaders consider their followers.
• Great leaders take ownership of their successes and mistakes equally.