How A 91 Year Woman Can Help Grow Your Business
Published: Thu, 05/07/15
I took a call today from a local number I didn't
recognize, which I don't usually do. It was a
91 year old woman who was asking for help
with some volunteer work.
It turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made
in a long time.
In the past I've taken calls from strangers and gotten them
on and off the phone as quickly as possible...unless there
was a financial incentive to stay on longer.
And I'm pretty sure "Mrs. S." was used to being treated
with courtesy, but not necessarily respect or regard.
I agreed to her request for help.
And then for whatever reason, I just decided to let her
talk...and genuinely listen.
We talked about the local high school...where her kids
and grandkids went to, and where my daughter went.
The same daughter who's graduating from college in
three days!
And she talked about how the town we both live in,
Bristol, Connecticut has evolved. I've lived here for 16
years. She's lived here for 91.
And we talked about how her husband served
on a submarine during World War Two. I told her how
my sister-in-law is now a captain in the Navy. We
were both amazed at the opportunities for women.
We talked about "The Greatest Generation" and how
some kids seem to be aimless, but how so many others
have a sense of purpose...and appreciation, and grace.
At the end of the call Mrs. S. expressed her appreciation
for the time, and for my commitment to find someone
to give her a hand.
But mostly for the fact that I was present with her for
those 30 minutes.
I expressed that same gratitude, and I meant it,
for several reasons.
First of all, this woman was living history. Not just
about the World War Two era, but about the town
I've lived in much of my adult life...and the town we
raised our kids in.
She remember the streetcar tracks downtown, and
when the abandoned railroad station made several
stops a day.
The stories Mrs. S. told were clear. I could hear
her voice become stronger and sharper with each
passing minute.
She clued me in on what some of the people we both
know were like in their youths. Crabby senior citizens
were fun playful kids...and that's how she remembers
them.
And she told me about her kids. How her little girl
is a 66 year old attorney who lives in Colorado.
She didn't mention her husband, and I'm assuming
he's no longer around.
It makes it vitally important that Mrs. S. experiences
connection with other people. Old doesn't mean
dead. As I near the half century mark, I get
a sharper appreciation of that.
So , did you scroll down to this
part where you think there might be advice on
how to grow your business or career?
Or did you give the time and attention to the
story I told?
I had an experience that enriched me. It was
moving. And it made me a better listener.
Think that isn't important for your business?
For your career? For the important relationships
in your life?
Just take a look around at the successful people
you know. They aren't slamming and spamming.
They're being real. They're cultivating relationships.
They're being present.
They're listening.
So that when they have something of value to offer,
they don't have to go into a song and dance to
persuade or convince.
The relationship drives the transaction.
Trust and honor.
And sales.
And partnerships.
And better than that...meaning and honor.
A culture around you that people want to be
part of...usually more than the money itself.
All because you were willing to slow down.
And be present.
For the 91 year old woman who had absolutely
nothing of monetary value to offer in return.
Or the lost soul who just needs an ear for a
few minutes (not to be confused with someone
who want you to join their pity party on a
full time basis).
For someone who feels your energy more than
they read or hear your words.
It's how things get done.
It's who the greatest people grow into.
And yeah...it's ultimately who is blessed with
the most rewarding lifestyle.
Including the money.
Who are you gonna bless with your presence?
Who will you give the gift of parking your
need to be heard, and just listen?
What happens when you make the energy
of grace and love your signature style?
You know the answer.
Now, go live it!
Much Love,
Larry
P.S.: I say this with total truth...
HOW TO RECEIVE is a tool that will help
you get to that place.
You'll learn how to be present for yourself.
And then how to be present for others.
And along the way, you'll learn how to accumulate
love, relationships, health and yeah...money.
CLICK HERE. See for yourself.