As I write these words, the eyes of the world are on Sochi, Russia, the home of the Winter Olympics. Athletes from 88 countries will have converged on this historic, yet somewhat controversial location. Nonetheless, I assure you that both athletes and visitors will go home with many wonderful memories of the competition, the ceremonies, and people.
The modern Olympic Games have been an extraordinary unifying force for good since being resurrected in 1886. Is there a more soul-stirring sight than the opening ceremonies when participants enter the stadium marching with enormous pride behind their nation’s flag? Admiration, tolerance, respect, compassion, and lifelong friendships are just a few of the important benefits that have resulted from this magnificent spectacle.
The Olympics are a metaphor for understanding what is happening throughout the world in terms of the global economy. Just as there are more nations participating in the Olympic Games today than at any time in history, more nations than ever are investing heavily in their infrastructures and economies so that their products and services can compete in the great game of business. Prosperity in all its manifestations is both the incentive and the reward.
But if “The Olympics of Business” are indeed a reality, we need to give urgent consideration to a major distinction: Unlike the Olympic Games, business does not have the luxury of four-year intervals to rest, recuperate, and prepare. In fact, new world records are being broken every day as competition raises the bar and customers raise their expectations. How do we ensure that not only does our team stay in the game but also that we win our share of medals?
Ironically, the starting point is not goals, strategy, and tactics. It is the alignment of the organization to a higher purpose—a purpose that inspires and to which people are willing to give their total commitment.
To tap into the Olympic spirit, therefore, the questions to be addressed first and foremost are:
- Is everyone—individuals and teams—aligned behind a common purpose?
- Is each person clear about his or her roles and responsibilities in fulfilling that purpose?
- Most importantly of all, is everyone committed to that purpose?
Once aligned, clear, and committed, this unprecedented era of opportunity necessitates breaking through the barriers of past habits, experiences, and assumptions. This will demand a level of growth and development rarely considered by large sections of society. It is, unquestionably, an exciting, enthralling time to be alive.
Let the games begin!
David McNally, CPAE, is the CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) of TransForm Corporation. Elected to the Speakers Hall of Fame by the National Speakers Association (NSA), McNally is the author of the bestselling books, “Even Eagles Need a Push—Learning to Soar in a Changing World,” “The Eagle’s Secret—Success Strategies for Thriving at Work and in Life,” and “The Push—Unleashing the Power of Encouragement.” His co-authored book, “Be Your OWN Brand,” is used by many business schools to address the importance of building a strong personal brand. McNally’s books have been translated into 12 different languages and developed into corporate training programs that have been released in more than 20 countries. TransForm works with organizations to develop purposeful leaders who build inspired organizations and iconic brands. Clients include Ameriprise, Areva, Conway, Delta Airlines, Pulte Homes, and Thrivent. For more information, visit www.davidmcnally.com or e-mail info@transformcorp.com.
