Becoming Above-Average

Jim Rohn was (and is) one of the men who inspire me. He was certainly far above average in life and career. He noted that before he was as successful as he became he was a man of many excuses. He blamed his lack of success and accomplishment on whatever came to mind. It is humorous to hear him share his list of "reasons" he wasn't successful. The video below is worth the 8 minutes it takes to view it.

In a recent article on Success Magazine's blog Rohn is credited with his five ways to begin the process of becoming an above-average person. Rohn said:

“Develop an above-average handshake. A lot of people want to be successful, and they don’t even work on their handshake. As easy as that would be to start, they let it slide. They don’t understand,” he says. “Develop an above-average smile. Develop an above-average excitement. Develop an above-average dedication. Develop an above-average interest in other people. To have more, become more.”

Becoming Above-Average: Handshake

This is basic stuff but many people miss it. Handshakes from both men and women should be appropriately firm. Not a vice-grip or a limp fish. Firm enough to show confidence and expectation. When shaking someone's hand look them squarely in the eye and respond appropriately to their comments. Easy enough?

Becoming Above Average: Smile

The people of this world need smiles more than ever ... so give them yours. Smiling conveys what everyone wants: happiness. If people see you smiling they wonder what you have going for you and will be interested in discovering what that is. Smiling should never be fake. A true sincere smile gives you a big advantage in human relationships.

Becoming Above-Average: Excitement

Very simply, if you aren't excited about what you are doing professionally then find something you can be excited about. BUT usually there are many reasons to develop excitement and enthusiasm for the work you do. If excitement has waned then you probably have lost focus. You may be focusing in all the wrong places. Go back and watch Rohn's video again. What are you blaming that is killing your excitement?

Becoming Above Average: Dedication

Be dedictaed to excellence in everything you do. Be excellent in family relationships, business negotiations, recreational activities, and your service to your church, company, and/or customers. Remember these awesome words from Philippians 4:8. These words motivate me to excellence.

8 Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

Becoming Above-Average: Show Interest in Other People

People care primarily about one thing above everything else; themselves. Take advantage of the fact that most people love to talk about themselves and what is going in their lives. Show real interest in other people. Be sincere in this. If a person sees that you are truly interested in them and their wants and needs, they will likey reciprocate.

I hope these words have been a blessing.

Tony Guthrie