Can't Sleep?

Like many optimistic young professionals, I am constantly inundated with management parables.  Books, articles, and training seminars offer up more business advice than anyone could ever implement.  Most of this information has been logged away in the unreachable caverns of my brain, but a few thoughts have settled in to practical use.

One of my favorite references is the book “Rules of Thumb” by Alan M. Webber.  Instead of prosthelytizing the certain truths of Leadership, he dictates interactions with successful people and the traits that inherently drive them to greatness.  One of Webber’s favorite interview questions from his years of reporting is “What keeps you up at night?” because that unsettling feeling is the impetus to wake up in the morning and make things happen.

I love this, because a truthful answer will basically sum up what drives an individual.  It is the essence of what makes you tick.  This will tell you so much about someone: who they are under the surface and what kind of person they really are.

So why would this apply to what we are working towards here at DoGoodedness?  The answer is simple: We want to know what you care about.  Beyond work and family, what causes and issues occupy your thoughts? Take a minute and answer honestly: What keeps YOU up at night?  Note: “nothing” is a crappy answer.  Write these things down.  If you really want to affect change, this is where you will find your calling.

The things that keep me up at night: Illiteracy, the homeless population, providing a wonderful world for my kids (hypothetical children, of course – little Chappys are in the distant future), and being a better person.

Of the many reasons you can find to get involved, it is great to list one of them as “this really matters to me.”  With such motivation, it is much easier to stay committed.  The early mornings, late nights, sweat, tears, and money you sacrifice will be well worth it.  Believing in what you do makes your work special.

Please email me (matt@DoGoodedness.com) with what keeps you up at night.  Let me know how you want to challenge the status quo and make a positive impact on the world.  I will be delighted to help you get plugged in or start your own initiative.

DoGood!

matt

photo by stephmcg via flickr