Starting Point

Insights from the Outside: Wilderness Wisdom Part Two

2012-05-14T01:52:26Z

Tomorrow is the start of NOLS' WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER TRAINING here in Golden, Colorado. Looking over the highly-intense curriculum reveals a catalogue of potential trauma and emergencies to consider. While not every scenario can be anticipated, the course is certain to impart PRINCIPLES that can be transferred across perilous situations. The preliminary WILDERNESS FIRST AID CERTIFICATION received in February convinced me that problem-solving is portable, that analysis works anywhere Likewise, business obstacles are rarely new. Even if they prove to be, a level of fluency both with causes and effects is a strong starting point -- as is developing a framework to walk through them with confidence. Thanks in advance, NOLS, for the insights that flow from this widely-acclaimed training.

Insights from the Outside: Wilderness Wisdom Part One

2012-03-15T15:42:49Z

What does it take to survive outside the urban jungle? The list of ESSENTIAL ITEMS varies and some highly-rated survival simulation learning kits give their "top ten" recommendations. From recent Wilderness First Aid training under the auspices of NOLS comes the following insight: PRESENCE OF MIND is number one in the tool kit whether the sun is shining or a whiteout is imminent. The ability to look clearly at the situation, almost like an outside observer, is the start of intelligent planning -- or a downward spiral of disasters if emotions take control. Business situations demand a similar level of dispassionate, critical observation when the path ahead is not obvious.

Lessons from the Silver Screen: INSTALLMENT SIX

2011-08-24T22:25:42Z

THE FIELD is a chilling confrontation with the human nature to protect and defend -- at all costs. Actor Richard Harris was nominated for an Oscar by bringing to life (or death?) the stop-at-nothing passion to own three acres his tenant family had tilled for generations. Protecting what we value is important, yet selfish desires can quickly trump common sense or community good. Marketing efforts, even those ascribing social good, need the leavening of decency to thrive and multiply. The need to contribute to the dignity of others may, in the final analysis, mean walking away from the siren song of personal and corporate wealth.

Lessons from the Silver Screen: INSTALLMENT FIVE

2011-04-30T15:41:06Z

THE ADJUSTMENT BUREAU faded and flopped on the Big Screen, largely due to confusion between the science fiction focus and a romantic storyline. The premise, however, is worth considering. Is there such a thing as free will? Is destiny ordained or earned? Can we change the world or does it direct us? This is critical for the market-focused entrepreneur who strives to carve out a meaningful niche in the landscape of global commerce. Too much belief in "destiny" could lead to apathy and slow response to economic imperatives. Too much belief in "clean slate" might encourage the ill-equipped or poorly-suited to believe all things are possible. Without being a spoiler for the Redbox DVD renters out there, there's reason to consider how -- and who -- shapes your future.

Lessons from the Silver Screen: Installment Four

2011-02-08T14:15:13Z

DAWN PATROL was an early aerial combat movie, set amid the balsa-and-canvas airplanes of World War I. The heavy losses of nearly every Allied patrol became the background for an emerging crisis.

Would the squadron's commander stand by as young fliers continued to die either by crash-inducing mechanical failures or enemy fire over the trenches? Would sacrifice extend beyond the soldier to the officer? Would honor mean death -- or saving another for at least another day?

Contemporary theories about LEADERSHIP abound, but the idea of sacrifice as a core attribute elude many of them. DAWN PATROL's message is that, at some point, leaders enter the fray if they believe the cause truly is worthy.

Lessons from the Silver Screen: Installment Three

2011-01-13T13:51:59Z

INCEPTION has captured the imagination of many as a new model for film production. An original screenplay devoid of super heroes, aliens or middle-aged men acting like sixth graders, the film illuminates at least one important concept.

The mind's power to create and destroy -- and turn thoughts into palpable reality -- is beyond debate. Understanding this double-edged nature is key to constructive persuasion in which new, positive connections can be made with past experiences.

Whether product or service, demonstrating how problems get solved, obstacles are overcome and potential is realized all are viable paths to greater sales. Instead of having to go three levels down in the mind, influence can occur on a more visible and transparent basis.

Insights from the Silver Screen: Installment Two

2010-12-30T22:33:21Z

TRUE GRIT has come back again with a vengeance, pun intended. The Western classic has been reborn with a precocious protagonist and Jeff Bridges scooping up the redemptive role of Rooster Cogburn.

Insights abound, but one stands out regarding the power of intentionality. In pursuing her father's killer, a young woman must continually overcome skepticism about her 1) motivation, 2) capabilities and 3) resources (as in, budget to underwrite the manhunt).

In every case and with each step, she keeps her eyes on the prize even through dark nights and semi-warm campfire beans. She gains her results at the cost of limb, not life, as those she recruits prevail in large part because of her unrelenting passion.

Insights from the Silver Screen: Installment One

2010-12-09T20:32:37Z

THE GODFATHER continues to garner acclaim as one of the top films ever produced. According to this observer, the central message of the film is worthy of attention no matter your film preferences.

Question: What was the Godfather seeking in the middle of all the mayhem and criminal conspiracy?

Answer: Respect, the one thing he valued more than life itself (at least the lives of others).

Follow-Up Question: How many of those to which we sell or serve are looking for the same thing?

Follow-Up Answer: Most, even if they don't express it or offer their rings for kissing.

The desire to be a) acknowledged, b) valued and c) considered transcends gender, culture and age.

Anyone advancing a sales agenda would be wise to learn from the Master of Respect, The Godfather.

Lessons from ZOMBIELAND: Part Six and One-Half

2010-11-03T18:38:58Z

Before running too fast and far from the zombies, it's instructive to ask at least one question: Are the lumbering zombies happy with their ravenous lifestyle? In point of fact, few chose to sign up for their new club -- most were "recruited" under extreme duress. Based upon their restlessness and insatiable appetites, one could surmise the answer is NO. Yet, compared to the challenges of those struggling to remain out of their clutches, the daily calendar is simple and straightforward. Trade-offs? Some big ones -- including a diminishing food supply and relentless competition. All things being equal (which they are not), perhaps being pursued carries greater freedom and potential than being the pursuer.

Lessons from ZOMBIELAND: Part Six

2010-10-19T04:10:42Z

THERE ARE DAYS when joining the zombies seems appealing. Plenty of company, not much to lose and a very simple agenda are part of the package. The trouble becomes one of resources. As in, lots of zombies means dwindling foodstuffs and overlapping territories. Unable to think for themselves or rise above their circumstances, the zombies lumber along until they've run out of obvious options. Commodity markets are full of zombie-like companies, and a visit to any major trade show makes one thing apparent: Too many competitors means the end is in sight.