Jim Horan described how to capture the essential elements of an enterprise in a one-page plan.
Who/what contributed to your inner strength?
I have an extended community of friends and business associates that I have developed throughout the last 14 years, since leaving my last corporate job. These friends and business associates, in addition to my family are an incredible source of support and strength. I have come to learn and honor that I do not know it all, nor will I ever. When I find myself faced with challenges, I know I am never alone. I turn to my extended community. They are always there.
When in your life was your inner strength particularly tested and how did you deal with the incident?
In 1990 my executive position was eliminated. A year later a significant five-year personal relationship ended. A week later my 41-year-old sister died unexpectedly. I was numb … lost … in shock … experiencing deep pain. The way out started with Gerald Jampolsky's book, "Love is Letting Go of Fear." I learned to first forgive myself ... and those causing me pain. It was a difficult time, but the path out was made possible by family and friends who were supportive. I just took one day at a time. I followed my instincts ... and they were right.
I also began to learn about the ways of the Native Americans. I found their culture, beliefs and practices incredibly uplifting and supportive. I went on a Vision Quest with other business executives in transition. I started watercolor painting, after not having picked up a paint brush since I was 14 years old. I am absolutely convinced that the painting opened up a creative pathway that continues to flow today. I would highly encourage anyone facing challenges to "play" with art, regardless of the form.
What suggestions do you have to help people realize their capabilities?
Pay attention to what you are attracted to ... and then keep heading in that direction, even it you are unsure if it is right. I am convinced the right people will always show up when they are needed the most.
Then, I encourage people to take the most untraditional approach to whatever it is they are trying to do. My best example of that is my re-engineering the business plan to a single page. I broke most of the rules of strategic and business planning. Now 10 years later, it has become a global cottage industry. My community of friends and associates is 100 times what it was 10 years ago and I am having fun.
Why is it important to focus on inner strength?
It is always there; it just needs to be tapped into. Learning to pay attention and honoring one's essence is a lifelong experience. Once you begin to get the hang of it, the practice becomes easier. The other realization I have learned, is that other people constantly tell us what our gifts and strengths are ... the key is for us to be able to hear them.
What are your next goals and what positive thoughts or activities keep you striving toward your goals?
The next goal is to get my business to $1 million a year in revenue. We are close. What makes this goal exciting is that at this level, I will be able to add additional people to support the needs and demands of this business. With the additional support, I will be able to work at a more leisurely pace, take more vacation days and more fully enjoy a balanced life.
