In my role as a speaker/consultant, I have the opportunity to work with a wide variety of organizations across a large number of industries. I’m exposed to many leadership styles and results and have interacted with some tremendous teams.
In doing so, I’ve identified a common thread among today’s workforce … more and more leaders and employees have failed to recognize their own potential! I’m constantly amazed at the fact that I often recognize more potential in people than they do themselves. I’m sure there are a number of reasons for this situation. However, in today’s challenging work environment, these reasons must be dealt with in order to obtain the success we seek.
Years ago, I heard Zig Ziglar share the true story of a Texas landowner who was struggling to support his family. In fact, he was at his wit’s end searching for solutions when he was approached by an oil company. They informed him that there might be oil on his land and offered to pay him royalties for permission to drill. With nothing to lose, the landowner agreed.
Long story short, the drilling was a success as the oil company discovered “Spindletop,” the most productive single oil well in history!
The landowner went from being a pauper to an instant multimillionaire—or did he? Actually the answer is “no.” This man had been the owner of great riches for as long as he had owned the property! He simply wasn’t aware of it and therefore did nothing to capitalize on his potential riches!
How many of us may be in that same situation TODAY! How many of us have incredible ability and talent which simply has yet to be recognized and utilized?
Here’s a quick and simple strategy that may change your life:
- Get acquainted with yourself. List your many strengths and assets. Ask friends, associates, and family for insight.
- Begin today to develop and use those untapped strengths in your journey to success.
- Seek out and create opportunities that require what you have to offer. The more you seek—the more you’ll find.
Who knows—maybe you’re sitting on your own “Spindletop.” Drill, explore, discover … you have absolutely nothing to lose and everything to gain. Who knows what may come to the surface?
Note to Leaders: Take a moment to explore your existing staff. You’re sitting on a minefield! Can you afford NOT to drill?
About Harry K. Jones
Harry K. Jones is a motivational speaker and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a company of professional speakers who provide custom-designed seminars, keynote presentations, and consulting services. Harry's top requested topics include change management, customer service, creativity, employee retention, goal setting, leadership, stress management, teamwork, and time management. For more information on Harry's presentations, please call 800-886-2629 or fill out our contact form.