Happy Dependence Day!
This week, we celebrate Independence Day here in the United States. I have to think, though, that “independence” is not the best descriptor. The fact is, our country came about because of “dependence”.
Centuries ago, a small group of would-be colonists assembled together and began an uncharted journey to a new land. It was difficult and treacherous, and many did not make it through those early years. They had to work together to build what is now the United States of America. They depended on each other’s strengths to survive. Yes, they were independent of England, and they were individuals; but they were highly dependent upon each other.
When you look at the United States of America today and think that it all started with this small but determined group of colonists, it is amazing. This is the ultimate illustration of teamwork, of people working in their strengths to build something significant.
Was it easy? No.
Was it fast? No.
Was it significant? You’d better believe it.
And since we’re talking about history, and I’m being controversial, here’s another thought for you: Thomas Edison was not an inventor.
He wasn’t.
Thomas Edison was an improver. He found his inspiration in proven principles and the inventions of others, improved upon those concepts, and had a team of support that helped bring the concept to reality. His strength was in the area of improving.
- He took the idea of a telegraph and a telephone and came up with a phonograph.
- He took the concept of the Zoopraxiscope, combined that with the phonograph idea, and improved it to give us the means to create motion pictures.
- He is given credit for inventing the light bulb. In fact, he did not. The idea had been around for fifty years. What Edison did was improve it to the point of actually making it a reality.
We are each very much dependent upon others. A lot of business owners and managers try to make it on their own. Very few actually do. Those who are successful know they need help. No one person has all four DISC strengths in one optimal package.
So how do you get the full package? You assemble a team of experts. Contribute your strengths, and allow others to contribute theirs.
And what comes of THAT can be amazing -
like a light bulb or a country or a great community,
as shown in the StrengthsCast episode below.
Happy Dependence Day!
To Watch This Interview Go To:
http://debingino.typepad.com/deb_ingino_wired_to_succe/2011/06/strengthcast-with-mark-burch.html
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