Recently I had some free time, and somewhat ironically, found myself watching the movie, “In Time,” a Sci-Fi fantasy which presents the notion of time as the ultimate currency, along with all of the implications brought about by such a turn. Justin Timberlake’s questionable acting chops aside, this movie posed a thought provoking question, “What if time was actually money?” In addition to the film’s obvious commentary about our economic and social systems, it left me pondering the possibilities: in essence, what would happen if we had to pay for the time we have? How would we make the most of each minute?
Of course, this subject probably conjures up the standard visions of sky-diving, world travel, dramatic scenes with friends and family, etc. I mean to pose this question from a far less life-or-death point of view—in our day-to-day lives, how can we make every second count?
So, what is a moment’s worth? Think of what we typically do with a minute of our time—update social media accounts, check bank balance, get coffee, download an app, etc. Now, think of what we could do with a minute of our time: make a difference in someone else’s day, overall attitude, or even their career.
Somewhat fortuitously, with respect to this topic, I recently finished reading, “Touch Points: Creating Powerful Leadership Connections in the Smallest of Moments”, by Douglas Conant and Mette Norgaard. From a broad perspective, this book examines the fact that creating connections and impacting others can be fundamental -- built into every interaction, even those that are only momentary. In this regard, a minute can make all the difference.
“TouchPoints” focuses on the importance of listening, of truly being present, when interacting with others. The authors have dubbed what others call the “Information Age”, as the “Interruption Age,” as we compete for each other’s attention with the ever increasing incoming emails and phone calls at our fingertips. It is not uncommon for multi-tasking to be an essential part of our day—and by no means can we stop! (Note: I am not trying to “Jerry Maguire” myself here and suggest we all do less work). However, I am sure most can relate to a scenario of speaking with a co-worker, when our cell phone beeps, alerting us to the new voicemail, email, text or status updates awaiting our response. On impulse, we may be mid-sentence and choose to pick up the phone, look at it, and decide to follow up on it after our current conversation. Perhaps we were awaiting a call/email that will demand our immediate reaction when received; more often, it is that we are now so accessible, that we often feel the need to address every call or message instantly. But in the few seconds that followed that beep, the person we are talking with has already noticed and registered that they do not have our undivided attention. This seemingly insignificant distraction may have altered the other person’s perception of us, as well as that of their importance to the topic at hand. It has become so common that we may do this without even thinking—but in this moment, we may have impacted their commitment, satisfaction and motivation in a negative way by showing them that their presence and/or topic at hand are not our priority.
I challenge each of us to make the most of the moment in the next interpersonal connection we have; to take advantage of the opportunity literally staring us in the face, and make a positive impact on that person by showing we care about and value their input. This goes beyond societal etiquette, closing in on the core of individual motivation. The effects of treating others in this way, no matter how insignificant the topic at hand may seem and can be invaluable. Think of it this way: a person could leave the conversation with a renewed sense of commitment and urgency, having felt their input was truly valued, or they could leave feeling deflated and unimportant. Which person is more likely to commit to the initiative at hand and perform at a high level? In short: put your phone down and lift someone else’s spirits!
It’s that time of year again-- time to clear our Sunday afternoon schedules, throw some ice in the coolers, and head out to watch the big game. Football fans are amped up and ready to roll—and really, what’s not to love about the season? Crisp autumn weather, great times with family and friends, traditions of rivalry, exciting wins and crushing defeats… and, who isn’t at least a little bit amused by the over-the-top Superfans (there’s at least one in every group—if you can’t think of one, you’re probably it. Painted your face lately?).
We love football for all of these reasons, but also because our favored professional athletes can excite, entertain and inspire us. My personal favorite is Baltimore Ravens Linebacker Ray Lewis. Not because he is entering his sixteenth straight season in Baltimore; not because he is the Super Bowl XXXV MVP and a 12 time Pro-Bowler; not his huge hits and game-winning plays, and not even because it’s widely accepted that Ray will always be one of the greatest Defensive players ever to step up to the line—former teammate Todd Heap said it best: “It’s just Ray’s spirit. He brings passion to the field and makes everyone play better. He always has that fire—then backs it up with his play.”
While all of us may not be able to stand our ground against the toughest offenses in the country, earn millions of dollars and become national superstars, we can all play like Ray. In our chosen paths, if we have passion for achieving our goals, we can become elite and inspire those around us to succeed as well.
Whether personal or professional, passion is the key to long term success. Many of us want to excel at our careers, become better parents, overcome financial struggles, improve our health, etc., but how can we accomplish and maintain our goals without this intense driving force behind us? What will fuel the motivation and commitment required to excel? Most anyone can keep their efforts going when things are going their way; but only our passion for life, future goals or the task at hand can keep us getting up and coming back for more each time we are knocked down.
The enemy of motivation is indifference—and if you take a look around, you can usually spot it. Those displaying indifference are often grumpy, put-upon and generally unenthused. If you have passion for a cause, spread it around! Others will take notice and can benefit from your enthusiasm, especially in the work place; and who knows, they may just need a reminder! Think about it—would you rather build your organization by promoting the person with the chronic (and often contagious) “Case of the Mondays”, or the one whose commitment and excitement is undeniable? If you are passionate about achieving long-term success, advancing your career, and living your organization’s core values, let it shine through—you might be surprised at the changes you can affect for yourself and rouse in your co-workers.
It’s his passion for the game of football which makes Ray Lewis the heart and soul of the Baltimore Ravens Defense, and his passion for life which makes him an undeniable leader on the field. So, embrace, cultivate and above all, share yours—you never know where it may take you.