Who Gives You "The Flu"?

We are all influenced by images on television and the popular figures in sports, politics and entertainment. Influence can be positive or negative.

"I am not a role model."

Made famous by Hall of Fame basketball player and analyst Charles Barkley in a Nike commercial. Nothing could be further from the truth....he is a role model. Some of his influence is good and some not so good, but as long as people are watching, Charles has influence.

Who is influencing you?

It can be those who are in direct proximity - the naysayers at the water cooler or the top producer who is breaking company records.

Another definition of influence is "to have an effect on the development of".

Who are your role models? More importantly, why?

We should follow people who set the right examples in the specific areas where we want to improve, but should realize that external trimmings may not be the best measurement of who to emulate.

We have seen people who have ascended to great heights but have "hidden vices" (we all do!). We throw the "baby" of their gifts, talents and effectiveness out with the "bath water" of their weakness or indiscretion.

Three key points in being influenced by a role model;

#1 - Separate the life of the person from the process they use to generate success. Tiger Woods is my golf hero...but golf only. I can't hit the clubs the way Tiger does, but I can practice, focus, adjust my grip.  Ok, I admit to wearing Nike - but I don't expect a shirt with a Swoosh will help my swing - get it?

His fall from grace didn't change him from being my golf hero...because he was never my marriage role model (my dad is!). Tiger is human...

#2 - Focus on the attributes that provide an avenue to the results you want. The clothes they wear, the car they drive are secondary characteristics that only provide marketing opportunities and are not a real marker to their success.

#3 - Have several role models that give you a full dimensional view of your ideal life - Mentally, Spiritually, Socially, Physically, and Financially. One person couldn't possibly represent all the excellence you want to express in your life - choose a series of people to emulate....not just one.

I ask again...who gives you "the flu"?

Who are your role models?

Until tomorrow, I wish you Money, Power, Success!