Remember the great scene in classic movie, “Monty Python and the Holy
Grail” between King Arthur and the Black Knight?
Wanting to pass over a bridge protected by the Black Knight, Arthur
compliments him, then asks the Knight to join Arthur’s quest. When the
Black Knight tells Arthur that he shall not be permitted to pass, the two
engage in a sword fight. Arthur immediately chops off the left arm of the
Black Knight.
(from the script by Monty Python:)
ARTHUR: Now stand aside, worthy adversary.
BLACK KNIGHT: ‘Tis but a scratch.
ARTHUR: A scratch? Your arm’s off!
BLACK KNIGHT: No, it isn’t.
ARTHUR: Well, what’s that then?
BLACK KNIGHT: I’ve had worse.
Arthur then chops off his other arm. The Black Knight continues to challenge
saying it’s “Just a flesh wound.” After Arthur has taken both the
Knight’s legs — and, I realize if you haven’t seen it, this scene
doesn’t sound ... (more)
One of my favorite bloggers, Bob Lefsetz, was noting a YouTube posting that
has had over 14 MILLION views — a video from handheld camera shooting a
wedding couple’s entrance to their ceremony.
Now…stop and think about that for a second.
Hollywood spends literally BILLIONS of dollars to try to get people to watch
their programming. Yet, this little wedding video has had almost DOUBLE the
viewers that legendary program “CSI” got last week!
Now, there are lots of reasons we could suggest — however, I feel pretty
strongly about one: The video is sheer joy.
If you can watch this — set... (more)
As always, when I discuss the actions of a political figure, I begin with the
disclaimer this is not a political blog — nor is it intended to suggest an
affiliation on my part. I have one…it’s just my belief that you aren’t
here for that type of commentary. I’m just using an example of an elected
official in regard to a professional and personal point I’m suggesting we
consider. OK?
Near Miami, Florida…Westin Diplomat Hotel…VERY significant conference of
the Consumer Bankers Association…high-level executives in the
audience…I’m on a panel and listening as another member is speak... (more)
Perhaps the ultimate adage in show business is, “Leave ‘em wanting
more.”
As a professional speaker for the better part of three decades, the constant
reminder is it is “better to stop too early than too late.”
And, this afternoon, Steve Jobs showed he knows that all business is show
business as well as any executive who ever lived.
Certainly, we hope and pray there is no subsequent annoucement about his
health. However, why would he desire the role of Chairman of Apple’s Board
of Directors if he didn’t plan on being around?
Instead, look at what he has done. He returned to the c... (more)
You’ve worked really hard to get to where you are.
Could that be preventing you from becoming what you could be?
May I suggest this is a critically important question to be asking
yourself…not only from a personal standpoint, but also from a professional
and organizational one, as well?
Envision a trapeze performer at the circus. The only way she can move from
one trapeze bar to the next is to let go of the one she’s holding to get to
the one where she wants to be.
Recently, I’ve spent some time listening to the audiobook version of
Marshall Goldsmith‘s “What Got You Here Won’t G... (more)