Giving Something Back

Our success as Producers changing our society through our own behavior will be marginal unless that change in our behavior is also outwardly focused. It’s not just the things we avoid doing that are going to move Producers to the head of the line, but the positive things we accomplish. The main positive activity you pursue is of course Producing. But we need to look beyond your work or business into the community.

I have discussed how we Producers should work with our children to train them properly, not only to become good Producers, but to detect the mold of mediocrity, even through shiny wrapping. That is one outward focus, but there are others.

Perhaps ‘others’ is not the right word because it implies a small list of outwardly focused things we can do. Our opportunity is more universal. Think like this: You are a Producer, and every person you come into contact with is influenced by your character. When you smile at a clerk who is especially helpful, you are changing the world. When you lean over at day care and help some kid you’ve never met build a bridge out of blocks, you are changing the world. When you mentor a coworker toward better performance, you are changing the world.

Every person you speak with and everything you touch is an opportunity to improve the world as a Producer.

A Paraducer who wants to give something back might think, “What do I have to give?” You don’t have that problem. When you participate in Planet Earth, you are Producing and inspiring others to do the same. You know people who do not settle for anything less than the best. You watch them choose an entrée at a restaurant, or a wine, or pick a seat at the ball game, and they go for the best at every turn. These are Producers living life to the max, and affecting others around them.

You don’t have to ask, “What do I have to give?” because you have so much to give. All you have to do is jump in with both feet, get involved in a venture that you are passionate about, and the Producer in you will shine through, giving so much more than this average world expects. In the process, you will be leading others along, sometimes in ways unknown to you.

The world is average, and sometimes treats Producers badly because they ‘rock the boat.’ Don’t take it personally. Push ahead and keep Producing, get better, work harder, think smarter, smile bigger and laugh louder. The average of the world will always be there like the dandelions in our yard, but we don’t have to give them control of our lives!

So find a passion that leads you outside yourself and follow it, excellently.