MADE for AMAZING: Finding Your Song in Work and Life
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20 free copies of Made for Amazing: An Instrumental Journey of Authentic Leadership Transformation.
Leave a comment on this guest post by Mark Nation to become eligible to win one of TWENTY complimentary copies of Made for Amazing: An Instrumental Journey of Authentic Leadership Transformation. (Deadline: 10/29/2017)
*International winners will receive electronic versions of Mark’s book.
“Most of us go to our graves with our song still inside us, unplayed.” Oliver Wendell Holmes
You have a song to sing to the world; this song is the essence of who you really are. However, if you are like most people, you find it extremely difficult to tune in to your one-of-a kind melody. Precious hints of your inner music are all-too-frequently drowned out by the routines of daily existence and constant trade-offs.
How can you discover your song, develop it, and share it more purposefully to inspire others? One way to do this is through a personal “soundcheck.”
Think of it in terms of a music group. Bands always do a soundcheck before a performance, when the stage is set, audio-visual systems are tested, band members check their instruments, and the group confirms everything is optimized for the show.
In finding your unique song, and tuning your life for success, you can perform your own “soundcheck” to determine how ‘concert-ready’ you are.
- Check your Heart. Are you in tune?
- Check your Motivations. Are they pure, and others-focused?
- Check your Health. Are you well-balanced?
- Check your Instrument. How well are you playing? Is it the best instrument?
- Check your Band. Have you joined up with the right group?
- Check your Song List. Are you playing music that resonates strongly with others?
- Check your Audio-Visual Output. How clearly are you amplifying your message?
You are created for great works that have already been planned for you. Don’t die with your best songs still locked inside you! Choose this day to check yourself, then sing with all your mind, heart and strength while the stage is yours.
When you prepare well, develop balance, focus on others, remain present in the moment, tune in, and—above all things, believe—the music will come to you.
And, when it does, it will be AMAZING.
About Mark Nation
Mark Nation is a globally-recognized management expert, leadership consultant, executive coach, author, and speaker with an MBA from Harvard Business School. He is the founder and president of Nation Leadership, and the Made for Amazing Project. He is the author of, Made for Amazing: An Instrumental Journey of Authentic Leadership Transformation
Number 5 is key! Evaluating your position as a leader is important. Without that, you cannot be fully effective.
Thanks Brooke! I really like your point-of-view. Context, perspective, etc. are all critical “keys” to our leadership ‘song.’ Thanks for weighing in here!
Check your family. Are you living in harmony?
So critically important. We often underestimate how much home spills over into our work life (or at least our ability to consider what is possible). Whether it’s our team, division, company, home, or community, striving for harmony – making a strong, unified, positive sound – should always be one of our highest goals (though it’s so hard to create and sustain!). Thanks for your comment, Duane.
Sounds like, “time for a sound check”, quite interesting topic today Dan. check, check, check, 1,2,3, Check
Yes, sir! Thanks Tim. You know what’s funny? I lived in China for a few years, and each time I’d go to a concert, when they did a soundcheck they would say, “Yi, Er, San…Yi, Er, San” which is Mandarin for 1, 2, 3. I always laughed out loud when I heard that! I guess some things are truly universal… 🙂
love what you do and do what you love, #1 is very important
Amen. Thanks for your thoughts, Ashley!
Thanks, Linda! I hope you like reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it! All the best to you.
Sounds like a great book!
Thanks, Linda! I hope you like reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it! All the best to you.
This resonates with the artist in me and the angst that often accompanies the duality of living my life for others without ignoring what feeds my soul…when I am emotionally healthy, everything and everybody is better for it.
So very true, Gene. Love your site, by the way. “Dealers in hope” we are…many thanks and blessings to you, for playing your part!
Not having your life song is like a book without the binding, it will eventually fall apart.
I had not heard this phrase before – but it’s so true! May we all strive to be “tightly stitched”…and not glued! Or even worse…those insanely irritating “plastic sliding binders.” 🙂
sounds like another great read – can’t wait!!! agree with all the great comments!! check, check and check again!! 🙂
Thanks, Donna! Agree with you…so many great comments from among Dan’s readers. Leadership Freak is simply one of the best – which attracts some of the best leaders! I hope you love the book. 🙂
….Reminds me of a famous Ronal Reagan quote:
Life is one grand, sweet song, so start the music.
The seven steps really resonate …I look forward to reading the book and promoting it to others
Awesome – glad it resonated with you on some level. I can’t wait for you to check out the book! It was an incredible gift just to capture the story on paper. It’s even more fun to talk about. Please let me know what you think!
That’s a great quote, and one I had forgotten completely. Thanks for jumping in and for the quote, Gerry!
That’s a great quote, and one I had forgotten completely. Thanks for jumping in and for the quote, Gerry!
Like it!!
Thank you! Hope you enjoy the book!
Love the soundcheck! We can get so caught up in routine that we lose sight of what’s important.
Thank you Nichole! I totally agree with you. It’s so hard to stay “centered,” even when we’re in (or around/near) the place we know we should be. It’s part of what makes life so interesting and dynamic. I hope you enjoy Josh’s story in the book…he goes through his share of challenges like the one you so well put forward.
Dan, thanks for co-opting another stellar voice.
Thanks so much for the compliment, John. I sincerely hope you like the book and the framework it lays out (quite subtly) for authentic leadership transformation.
It strikes me that if you don’t do a sound check or the equivalent everyday first thing you’re not honoring what your parents gave you as well as what you’ve built on that start. Mainly, as I see things, we all need to max what we’re given to work with so we reach our potential peak, otherwise what are we doing here? I didn’t choose my profession in life just for the label. I chose it because I saw a wall hanging in one of my professor’s offices saying, “To teach is to touch a life forever.” In my view, every time I see my former students accomplishments, I know I’ve done that. And, I know that professor did that for me.
I love your points-of-view, Dr. Hetrick. I think you’re spot on. I really love the quote about teaching…I have not heard it in a long, long time. Thanks for taking the time to weigh in, and I hope you enjoy “Made for Amazing!”
Your music evolves as you make adjustments over time!
I couldn’t agree more! In the end, we should all be quite proud of our “bodies of work.” Hopefully, they will each endure in their own special and unique ways for the next generation. Thanks so much for taking time to join in here, Dawn.
“Choose this day to check yourself, then sing with all your mind, heart and strength while the stage is yours.”
Vaguely sounds familiar;
Matthew 22:37
Jesus said to him, “ ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’
Looks interesting, I’ve saved in my wishlist if I don’t win a copy.
Haha! Nice reference. Whether we have a “faith” or not (or whatever that faith may be), we are all obligated to make the most of our talents (another parable much older than mine!). It’s much more than an obligation…it’s a real privilege to do so. Thanks a lot for your comments! I think you will like the story. 🙂
I love this. A reminder to keep the passion and listen to your inner guide!
Thanks, Laura! We are so “attuned” inside…if only we would listen more. Seems we only lack trust in – or remain confused by – that inner guide because we’ve grown so skilled at silencing it, lying to it, or justifying it away. Yet, it always comes back! Often in a whisper…other times in a scream! In the book, there is a scene where Josh’s teacher (The ‘Maestro’) tells him there’s a seat inside him, but it’s just an empty chair…waiting… May we all be still long enough to “be seated,” in that ‘place’ made just for us. 🙂
This post made me think of when I was learning to play the recorder at primary school. We were taught to read the notes first – I’m relating this to ‘reading’ my staff to ensure that the ‘music’ I play resonates with them. Am I in tune?
Haha – the recorder! Good times… 🙂 Your insight and connection re: tuning and resonance is really good, Libby. Thanks for bringing that example to light!
Would love the chance to explore your work. Music lives in all of us!
Yes! It’s honestly one of the few things in life that unites universally. Boy, do we all need more of that in this day and age. I hope you have the chance to read the book – this silly little metaphor wound up being quote powerful in a few different ways. Who knew?! LOL
I just applied for a position that I am very excited about and am hoping I am the chosen candidate. I would lead a bureau of a over 20 people. I love Leadership Freak as I, too, am a leadership freak which to me means I am very intrigued about the endless possible topics one can process on how to be a great leader. This book sounds great because I, too, believe we can sing our best song wherever we are. I would be honored to have a copy.
Thanks, Patti! Hope you win a copy, and if not, hope you still have a chance to read the story. The metaphor and framework would serve you so well when going into a new team, seeking to bring out the very best in each and every individual. I guarantee you it will make an indelible impression – to honestly seek to find the music in each of those souls (ok, new staff members) – and offer them the courage (and tools) to give it voice. Most never even believe they have ‘music’ in them, much less anything “very good” to offer that others want to hear. We know this is not the case! Best of luck with your impending role – please keep in touch and let me know when you have news to share! Reach out if I can ever help or support you in any way.
Excellent post and consistent with the emphasis on self-leadership” that you often bring out. Playing the role that we are created to play in life begins with being responsible to ourselves and for playing the music that is inside us; that )from my own personal beliefs, was put inside us by God)–but is inside us nonetheless.
Thanks for your POV, Kenneth. I think you will like Josh’s story – he wrestles with some of the very challenges you capture in your assertion. Let me know what you think!
This may be one of my favorites so far!
Aww, thank you Lori! It has been a blast playing around with the “music as a metaphor for leadership & life” concept. There’s a lot more (better haha) meat packed into the storyline itself, and the questions for reflection in the book. Hope you win a copy or choose to pick one up for yourself. Lemme know what you think!
I like the sound check concept. One can add some or not need some of them. Great idea! I will practice this for 6 weeks until it becomes habit!
Thanks, Suzanne! Agree with you. Some can be done in a quick, cursory fashion, leaving others to spend more time on. And there are others you could bring “into the mix” here – like “Check Your Hearing;” i.e., how well do you listen to yourself, others, clients, etc. Understanding and responding to needs. Let me know how your own practice is going!
This aligns with everything I’ve been living and preaching for the last 10 or so years. I will definitely add this book to the library.
Thanks for passing this along. These are great reminders.
Awesome, glad to hear that Roger! Maybe you’ve known for years what I’ve only recently pulled together – I’m coming around, though! 🙂 I would love it if you could read the book and let me know what you think about it, especially if it happens to inform or amplify newer concepts to your own POV. Appreciate the supportive note!
Great article about leading with “harmony”. Harmony with oneself strengthens who you bring to the table every day. When you are fragmented, there is greater risk of disjointed leadership or fragmented teams. Harmonizing these 7 “soundchecks” will increase the likelihood that you will crucendo with your leadership vision and approach! Thanks for the read. Look forward to the new book!
Thanks for the comments, Jennifer! I totally agree with you. It’s so hard to do this…and keep it up…constantly having to re-tool our instruments, our groups, our style/genre, etc. Truly the work of a lifetime! Which is what makes it so intriguing, I suppose. Hope you enjoy the book!
This definitely sounds interesting!
Thanks, Amy! I hope you have the opportunity to read how Joshua Lynk goes about finding his own song, and all the trials he faces along the way. His story really does mimic our own in so many ways. It was a pleasure to write and is a joy to share with you. 🙂
Beware over-checking: when you check, re-check and check again and again until you’ve spent so long checking there’s no life left in the performance and no time left to perform.
Yes! How very right you are. Sometimes, these checks can be done quickly and simply – almost like a reminder. Or, just 1-2 need a little care and feeding…tuning up, if you will. Even so, when the lights go down…ready or not…it’s on. And our days…become our lives… Thanks a lot for bringing this important POV into the mix.
The interdependent nature a music group makes this work even more compelling!
Yes, sir! Like it or not, the most famous musicians make it as part of a group…or at least need a group to more fully bring their music to life. So it is with all of us…first, the music needs to sound (consistently) good together, then, we can amplify it to scale! Thanks for your comments, Bradley – hope you enjoy the read!
Dear Dan,
Soundcheck indicates that we should live our lives. Most of us live influenced by others.Every one has its potential to explore that has no limitation. When we work in the organisation, we live others dream decided by some people. It is important to explore ways to live our lives by exploring our potentials. This will never show any repent on us.
I love this concept – music is an important part of life. It inspires, reduces stress and helps people make meaning of their own life. When you are creating your own “music,” it is most important to have a “band” of other “musicians” that you can sing your song to. By using your bandmates to push your thinking and creativity, you can effectively create something that will not only be useful to you but can help inspire others to sing their song. Being a leader is about creating music that inspires others to create music.
How very right you are, Ajay. Influences themselves are great! Just as every great musician has been influenced by countless others…letting them contribute to his/her own style. But, there comes a time we all must make our own music which is ours and ours alone to make. And we need others around us to do this! It’s their highest and best form of expression – what if everyone would actually believe this, and then try it…just a bit. How much more beautiful things would “sound” in our world. Thank you for your comments and ideas!
Hi – as the HR leader in a 3 hospital integration, this book would be very helpful.
Thank you, Mary! I would be more than happy to share offline how the material is used to help with Authentic Leader Development (endorsed by Harvard B-School and Authentic Leadership Institute) and team build outs. I also have another set of assessments and frameworks specific to hospitals and healthcare (used by Memorial Hermann, Mayo Clinic, Blue Cross, etc. – including integration efforts). Reach out and I can send you more info…I’d love to help you wherever possible. 🙂
Yes . .the band makes a difference too!
Oh, how right you are, Linda! As a former professional musician myself, I can tell you I sounded HORRIBLE when paired up with subpar talent…or those who simply didn’t take their roles seriously. Our groups, teams, associates, friends, family ultimately make us who we are. May we always choose our “circles of influence” carefully, ever-interested in delivering our very best work…music for the ages.
What a great concept to really consider and apply to our lives!
Thanks, Kristin! Hope you get the chance to read the book! I think you will like it. 🙂
I’m in the initial stages of writing a book for music industry professionals. I like the approach of taking concepts from the music business and applying to everyone. My book is approaching things the opposite way, but I’m definitely going to follow up with Mark’s book.
That’s fantastic, Ian! I’d love to hear about your progress, and do let me know if I can help you in any way. At a minimum, I think you’ll enjoy reading the story about Josh’s journey, from one musician (or music business aficionado) to another.
Being mindful and deliberate is just as important as working hard. Now if ONLY I could find that balance a little more consistently!
#2 – Check your Motivation……..very wise! When trying to figure out if someone is destructive or earnestly trying to improve themselves or a situation, motivation can give you true insight to where the person is actually coming from. Great post!
Thanks, Pauline! Sorry, a couple of my replies are “bouncing around” among other posts/individuals. Operator error, I’m sure. 🙂 Echo your point about Motivations. I often find that when I get clearer (and purer) about my own motivations, then I can better understand and discern others’ (good, bad, or indifferent). Thank you for taking the time to offer up your own insights – good stuff!
Amen, Tanya! If/when you find the more ideal balance…please send some my way! Meanwhile…hope you enjoy the story!
Amen, Tanya! If/when you find the more ideal balance…please send some my way! Meanwhile…hope you enjoy the story!
This post is great! I just attended a session that focused on Authenticity and learning how to find and live your authentic self. This is a powerful tool in that process. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much! I studied with Bill George at HBS and the Authentic Leadership Institute, so I value very highly the idea of authenticity. As Rumi wisely said, “As you live deeper in the heart, the mirror gets clearer and clearer.” I had so much fun turning key concepts into a storyline that – I hope – will resonate with lots of folks. It spoke to me, this I know. 🙂
Love the “Band” – it gives me pause. Worth being smart and giving thought to!!
Thank you! Would love to hear your thoughts as you digest further, read the book, and share your own insights and leadership story.
overall check done: checking one’s value system. Very interesting reading…de ja vue!! Confirms the beliefs i have always had and have for life… conscious, intentional awareness and knowledge of one’s value system makes one be their best under all situations, brings out the best in and of you, to the benefit of all in and around you. These checks reinforce stability of the individual…..internally and externally, mentally and physically and all other forms that can be perceived. I believe this is the source of great personal and team or group performance!! Thanks for the article and looking forward to the book!!
Excellent! And I totally agree. Thanks for chiming in with your great thoughts! Can’t wait to hear what you think about the book.
Everyone has a song inside their heart
A song embedded in their true essence
Find it,play it…And dance to the rhythm your heart plays.
Amen. Love the way you articulate the idea. Thanks so much for sharing – hope you love the book! I think there will be plenty inside its pages for you to enjoy.
I am inspired not only by the regular posts on this site but also the recommendations of others. Thank you for introducing us to another great book to help us realize our full potential!
Thanks for the positive words! I hope you enjoy reading the story of this incredible (yet troubled) young musician, as he tries to find his own voice, his song, and his place in the music that is his career…and his life. Let me know what you think!
I wonder if #6 Check your Song List. Are you playing music that resonates strongly with others?
should also include a question about being willing to be the prophetic voice when necessary. Are we wiling to stand up against injustice when we experience it or see it happen to others even if we are the lone voice? I’d be interested in reading the book to get a fuller understanding of the topic.
Wow. What weighty concepts you serve up here. Thanks for that! Josh deals with these very issues through Chapters 3-7 (in two different groups/businesses)…then again (in a major way) in Chapters 10-11. The “injustices” Josh faces are not what you might think…but they are nevertheless very strong, and – in their own ways – insidious. There are a couple of “prophetic”-type voices in the book that suggest we confront these ‘injustices’ and stand for what is right and true…take a read of the book and let me know what you think! You will likely have some added insights that will bring great feedback and new ideas to light. 🙂
Loved this post! Great metaphor for seeking out your passion….
Thanks so much! It was a blast to write this book and the post that amplifies a few simple concepts (the book calls out more material, and brings the story to places where issues are addressed in a ‘weightier’ fashion). I can’t wait to hear your thoughts post-read!
I have never thought about music and parallels to life and leadership! Fun blog today, thanks!
Thanks a lot! It is a “second grade simple” concept, but quickly became powerful, as I teased out more ideas, and all the parallels (this blog just representing a few). I hope you take the opportunity to check out the book – I think you’ll like it!
“Check your song list” resonated with me. Thanks for the reminder.
Thanks for your comments! Hope you like the book! I would love to hear your thoughts or comments…
This message was perfect timing. My institution is going through major change and I am trying to be the voice that stays focused on identifying strengths and keeping my staff motivated while so many moving parts are occurring around us. I look forward to reading this book and I am particularly excited about #4 – Check Your Instrument. Thanks for sharing, it looks amazing!
Thank you for your note! One thing I love about the metaphor, and the book, is that it encourages others to find the place where they also play wonderfully. It’s an invitation for all to shine, all to hone the invaluable gifts that are theirs and theirs alone. We all need it from those around us…it’s part of what brings so much blessing to our work (and home/community) lives. Please reach out, let me know what you think about the book, and if/how I can help with any other work- or team-related topics!
Love the metaphor. A very good reminder to periodically review who you are, why you do what you do, who you do it for, and how you make the most of what has been given to you. Thanks for the reminder!
Thanks very much, Eddie! I hope you have the chance to check out the book – I’d love your feedback!
Song = Passion … reminds me of the 10,000 hrs. of playing together that it took a band like the Beatles to change the “POP” in the world.
That’s good, thanks! Playing the right instrument well is like table stakes – it’s a given in the workplace. Not that it’s what we find as leaders and managers…but we can set the “tone & tenor” for the organizations we serve. Thanks for your insights!
The balance between work and home life is a beautiful thing when you can master it.
Haha! Lemme know when you got it all figured out! So important, yet so tricky to manage on a sustained basis. Hope you get the chance to read Josh’s story! More “entertaining” than your average business/leadership book, I think. 🙂
If we want to make a difference we need to be inspired. These ideas get the juices flowing!!
Totally agree! Thanks for sharing and the positive feedback!
Excellent points. “What you are is what you have been. What you’ll be is what you do now.” – Buddha; awareness where we are in the present is crucial to writing our song.
Love the Buddha quote – thank you! Knowing we can guide the way for others is part of the joy. Hope you like the book – it contains a bit of Eastern and Western thought. It was a pleasure to write.
Sometimes we need just the right instructions and thank you for the great advice!! Check your audio/video is a powerful step to success. Sometimes everything is good and ready to go…but to afraid to go out and perform. Wow what a powerful message today! Thanks!
Yes, how right you are, Wanda! I often talk about a “Signal-to-Noise” ratio which is a musical/sound term. But, it’s so much like our lives…if we can maximize the “Signal,” and minimize the “Noise,” then we will have not only better clarity, but also more “punch” and “power.” Hope you love the book and that it can serve you and your team/org. in some meaningful way!
I am interested in receiving these books.
Jackie Rieck
West Regional Manager
Hope you win a book, else let’s find a way to make sure you get to read it as soon as possible. Lemme know, either way! Thanks so much, Jackie.
As a music major who ended up with a career in finance, I love and live this analogy. I still perform, both with musical groups and as a public speaker, and I contantly apply lessons from the music world to my work with credit unions. As a manager, I am the conductor that helps the group play as one.
That is fantastic! Thanks so much for sharing. I think you will love the story, and find so many parallels between music and leadership/life. I found many more great practical examples, even after finishing the book. Hope you get the opportunity to check it out soon – lemme know your thoughts!
This was a great article and came at a perfect time. I think we are afraid of what others will think once we start singing our song. Courage of action and having a trusted friend to listen always help. Thanks Dan!
How right you are, Jared. You know, it’s funny, but many of our friends and closest confidants know very well what our biggest strengths are…and they are usually ones we discount, or refuse to believe. Why? Because they come so easily and naturally to us, that we discount them, or believe those talents and gifts are ‘marginal.’ I liken our friends/mentors to a mirror – they are a key part of authentic leadership purpose transformation, in my opinion. Now…see if you can find those subtle places in the book’s story, where I tease out that POV. Oh yeah, fear & courage are two other dynamics that weave consistently throughout the story. I hope you like where I took it. Enjoy!
In the hard times, it’s beautiful to remember that music can transform even dissonance into something beautiful. Thank you for drawing the correlation between music and leadership!
Fantastic point, Eileen! May we all hone our songs, groups, and catalogs such that our ‘bodies of work’ endure as something beautiful for current and future generations. Thanks for your comments.
It all starts with #1 — check your heart. I’m getting this book, whether I win one or not! Thanks so much….
Awesome – thanks! I think you’ll love the book. And I agree with you…the real work begins ‘inside.’ And we have to have the courage to be real with ourselves (not always easy to do!). Please let me know what you think after you’ve read the book…anxious to hear your thoughts!
7 great steps that make me consider taking 5 more than I was previously considering.
I’ve always tried to consider my heart and emotions (1 &2), but the other 5 have opened my eyes a bit wider.
Love the quote at the start.
“Most of us go to our graves with our song still inside us, unplayed.” Oliver Wendell Holmes
The key to music is in its resonation, and that opening line really resonates. Well done.
Thanks for a great Ah-ha moment to start my day!
Thanks for all the feedback, Nick! If you like the concept, you will love the book. Starting with #1-2 puts you in a good place…always a great place to begin!
Reminds me of the quote in “Art of possibility”-
The conductor of an orchestra doesn’t make a sound. He depends, for his power, on his ability to make other people powerful.
Benjamin Zanders
That is such a great quote – thanks for sharing, PJ! I’ve re-read this one a few times over the weekend. Thanks a bunch for jumping in here!
I love this!!! Excellent advice! Thank you for sharing with us.
Thank you, Deborah! Hope you have the chance to win a book or take a chance on one if you didn’t win. There is so much good food-for-thought packed in the pages of the storyline, I just love sharing it with people. I hope you have a fantastic week – let me know what you think as you read more!
Reading this brief intro about the book, it reminds me of the saying “your vibe attracts your tribe”. Finding your own motivation, balance, and peace helps you become a greater leader, inspiring others to rise up to be their best selves. This looks to be a great read. Thanks!
Agree! When we find that place that represents our true ‘center’ as a leader, it’s like we finally sit in the “seat” always created, meant, and designed just for us. We choose to ‘be seated,’ and the world begins to take notice…one person at a time. Then…the music just comes naturally, flows, emanates effortlessly from the heart, and makes a joyful sound. To find it…then share it so others can also discover their own versions, ‘banded’ together…is the work of a lifetime – and one of life’s most precious gifts. That’s my opinion, anyway. 🙂
This “sounds” like a great book.
Haha – thanks! Hope you like the way it reads as well. 🙂
I’m excited to read as I believe we all have a song and it needs to be let out. But we need the tools to figure out how? Thanks. Jenny
Thanks! I’m excited to share the story with you! Trust me…you already have the tools to figure out the “how.” I’ll simply remind you, and perhaps bring together a few tools together in a way you might not have considered before. Through the story and the questions for reflection, there will be lots of ‘tools’…but they’re sometimes “buried” so that – in finding them (like with any treasure) – you will be so much more empowered and excited! Look for clues, and the “story within the story,” and you will find some things that will impact your leadership (and life) very powerfully…this I believe with all my heart. If I could only write one book, if I could only coach or counsel a person one time, if I only had one chance to speak to someone with encouraging and edifying words…then this would have been the book & overriding message. I sincerely hope it serves you well.
Great post! Would love to get my hands on this book and share with my entire staff!
Thank you! Reach out to me, and I can share how the book and material can best be used by a team (beyond the read itself which is a lot of fun). I’ve been a student of leadership, lived leadership in many industries, countries, cultures, and practically every major business function. And I have not come across any gift worth giving a team, more than that of Authentic Leadership Purpose. It literally changes – no, transforms – every single person (who is open to change and improvement, that is) for the better. There is a really unique way to do it here that I’d love to share with you!
I love the concept as music is a passion of mine. I plan on getting the book and diving into how this correlates with leadership. Thanks for sharing
Awesome, thanks! I think you’ll love the story, even independent of the business/self-discovery/leadership aspect. Then, add in the practical correlations, and the story comes to life…starts to really resonate in a visceral way. Hope you enjoy it, and do let me know what you think!
I found you about 2 months ago and you have inspired me in so many ways. I look forward to reading your posts everyday. Thank you for all you do in developing leaders through your wisdom and continued dedication to leadership, which we all know is lacking all around us.
Thanks for jumping into this blog and conversation! Hope you have the chance to read my new book! I know your time is very valuable…and I hope you will take a chance to check out this story. May it bless you and those with whom you interact each and every day.
Amazing! Love your tweets
Thanks for the positive feedback on the article! Hope you like the book!
what a great and different approach! perhaps my brain can wrap itself around this.
Thanks a lot! I think the material is simple enough (both here and in the book)…it’s the application that is often so challenging! It’s truly the work of a lifetime…which is what makes leadership (and life) so fun. Enjoy!
I love the imagery! It’s impossible to help others find their own song when you haven’t found your own.
I also have known people, and been the person, who has lost their song for a while. I think there is something mystical, magical and eternal in helping people find their song again! Be that person!
Amen. Very wise words – thanks for sharing!
I love this concept – it makes for a modern approach that mostly everyone can relate to because everyone loves music. Great application of knowledge
Thanks Tyler! Hope you have the chance to read the story – think you will like it!
Check the Mix – Often musicians over play – the message/melody of the song is lost in the din of what everyone else is doing. Thin it out. Narrow the focus. Go acoustic if necessary. Most often Less is more!
I love this, Greg. How very right you are. Sometimes, we just gotta strip it all down, get back to the basics, and get the “architecture of good form and performance” right…then build back from that place. A few simple notes, well placed, often soar to a level that resonates beyond what any other sound could. Two guitarists who embody this exact approach – Carlos Santana, and Neil Schon (not to date myself or anything haha). Hope you enjoy the book (and hope I didn’t ‘overplay’ inside the pages)!
1-Check your heart-are you in tune. Can’t wait to read the book!
Thanks, Lorilynn – can’t wait to share it with you! It was an incredible privilege to be able to capture the story. I could teach, coach or mentor individuals or teams for a lifetime from the simple concepts captured in Josh’s story. Hope you love it and that it speaks to you in some special way!
Awesome advice, especially as a college student. It’s so easy to get over-involved and so caught up in your responsibilities that you forget to check in with yourself sometimes. Definitely need to share this with my peers!
Thank you! I totally get where you are – constant tradeoffs, and trying to manage the “shoulds” vs. the “really want to’s.” Not easy…and gets harder over time. “Just do YOU” is what I often tell folks…be comfortable in your own skin. Taking good care of yourself is a gift to everyone, both at school and in the workplace. I wish you all the very best, and please reach out if I can help you with anything you’re trying to navigate in the coming months and years. This is a great college-level read, btw – deals with many of the tradeoffs and success vs. significance moments we all face at some point in life…many folks come to the crossroads way later than they had preferred. Hope it serves you well!
For all leaders a “sound check” is an integral part of growing and improvement. Thank you for the reminder.
I don’t know why, but it often seems difficult to find our purpose. Maybe because it’s a pretty big deal and the thought have a true purpose is a bit overwhelming. I know my purpose, but I often feel like I’m losing direction because of all the other really good purposes out there. I’m all for a good cause. I’m hoping reading this book will give me some tools to keep my focus and be distracted. Thanks for the opportunity to win!
Love the analogy to music! I’ve looked at this as a value check, but love the context of authentic leadership and music! I look forward to reading the book!
Check Your Health is one that I think is often overlooked. So often we forget the importance of self-care which ultimately leads to the balance in our bodies getting out of whack, and our “instruments” falling out of tune. Great article!
Well, I’m certainly intrigued. It’s sad to think that so many of us haven’t found our voice, but hopeful that there is a path to finding it. I know I could use some guidance. I have always been so envious of those who are “born knowing” exactly what they were meant to do.
Thanks for sharing. This would make a great addition to our leadership library. Authentic leadership is focus of our yearly leadership campaign.
Great post great analogies. One more thing to check – check your choices and actions are aligned to your values – that brings authenticity.
I love the metaphor, and I think the book would be very inspiring. I plan to read it.
Check your motivations!
Would love to find my song!
sounds interesting, I look forward to see the content. now show me! the book!
I love the imagery that God has created us with a song.
Start with the heart! You know it’s the right beat when the vibe is right and your heart’s in tune. Now THAT’S leadership!
I’m guilty of not performing a “sound check” each day (performance) – this is a great suggestion… I recognize the benefit of “tuning” my instrument regularly. This tips provide a good routine and purpose – thank you.
Love the check yourself list!
I am an instructional coach and I can see where I could use this as a PD for all staff – no matter what their position in the school district! Such great information and I love the analogy to music. thanks!
I see the advantage of finding your song and going big and bold in this old world. Sounds like a great book!
This book sounds like just what I need right now in life!
Love it! The simple Sound Check for ones life/purpose… what a great illustration to help us find our cancion suprema. Don’t quite have my song down yet… and I think I need to play with the EQ a bit more too.
I love this! The checklist helped me to identify a few things that are creating some dissonance in my life. Now to create some action steps to bring more harmony.
Dan, thanks for your well timed message. So often I find that your blogs seem to connect with the events of the moment.
I really like this checklist – aspirational, yet actionable.
This is a great analogy for yourself in life! I am a music educator and look forward to sharing this post with all of my students tomorrow! I especially like the “are you with the right band” thought! Too often do I see good students go in a negative direction primarily due to the groups they associate with in their social lives. Great post!
Wooooo
Mark, Thank you for this creative model of checking one’s status before stepping on stage. Dan, thank you for allowing Mark to contribute & add value to this blog.
My wife & I lead an outdoor based mentoring & leadership development programme for young adults here in NZ. Mark, your Eph 2:10 statement and emphasis on EQ is music to our ears as we prepare the next generation of global leaders!
Good post. It seems this also makes the case for good teams, with varied strengths.
Great post. Love the quote. Sounds like an inspiring book!
Love this concept. People relate to music easily, so why not consider it as part of your make up to tap into who you really are…
Thanks,
Seanna Drewery
I like this one. It reminds me of a few things I need to do. Thanks, Dan.
I love the idea of a personal sound check. I often use music to help me center myself throughout my week. For example, what would be the soundtrack for this moment? It’s all about remaining present, tuning in, and then enjoying to ride with a great song playing in the background!
I want to develop my song and would love to have a copy of the book.
Oh no… I have never had a single musical bone in my body! I love music and from all genres, classic, punk, rap, country and everything in between. What do the tone deaf do Dan?
Live the joy anyway … if it pleases, don’t deny…
Playing your own time is something so vital and so difficult at the same time! How to be an authentic person but lead a team and be who they need you to be is something that I have struggled with. As a new leader you get so much advice about how to work with you’re team, however, you also have to make that advice your own and make it authentic to you.
So very true , with lot going around and worrying about the future, brooding over the past we forget living the life today and plan to live it one fine day.
Good one and thanks for sharing Dan 👍
One of the best posts I have read, perhaps because at this moment as I grow close to celebrating, yes celebrating my 76th. birthday I am also even more aware of the vital need to tune in to where I am and where I am not as a “business person”. So necessary to listen to not only our own voice but the voice of others. Personal sound checks never end as we are always able to tap into more of our potential.There are so many sad souls who live lives that are just survival and miss out on the thrill of discovering their amazing selves. Imagine how we can inspire others once we show the courage to be real, to take the time to hear and heed that inner voice. PS The first two words of the title of Mark Nation’s book made me feel he was writing just for me! Perhaps every reader will feel that. The true sign of a wonderful piece of writing. Positively, Pauline
So important to agree to disagree and keep the honest and authentic dialogue… the TRUTH will always set us free…
Listing to a good music from good people
When you prepare well, develop balance, focus on others, remain present in the moment, tune in, and—above all things, believe—the music will come to you.
Wow! I am living that right now! I am at a place in my career where opportunities keep presenting themselves to me. I am not looking for them. They just appear! It is exciting, challenging, and, at times, overwhelming. I have no idea where all of this is leading, but trying to enjoy the ride.
Don’t worry about being perfect! Sing in the shower like no one is listening!
Great and inspiring
Number 2 is critical. Your “why” is what drives your vision and mission and what people will rally around when the work gets tough! Always be aware of your “why”
One of the best experiences is to be in a position where everyone on your team is in a great place professionally. Then when you come together are bring your individual talent and song, a great jazz band assembles. The improv is amazing because everyone is confident enough to let the others take the spotlight. It’s amazing!
It’s the “then what” that I struggle with. I’d love a copy of this book.
Thank you so much for this inspiring read. Lately, my music has been sounding “out of tune,” at least to my ears. The analogy of a “sound check” gives me a clearer perspective on where the disharmony derives from. It’s my “band,” or job as they say. It clearly does not matter how well I play, if the rest of the band plays to the beat of a different drum. You have inspired me! I would love to see how much more inspiration I find between the pages of your book.
Mark, thank you for your remarkably insightful message. Self-checks or personal sound-checks are important to keep us in-tune for the melody we were created to sing. The challenge we all face is resisting the expectations others impose upon us to be something we aren’t well-suited to be. Perhaps the sound-check analogy would be stronger if it included the temptation to play the wrong instrument, sing the wrong song, or engage in the wrong music — those instruments, songs, and music meant for someone else. We find real success and real satisfaction — and make the greatest contributions — we we sing the song that lives within us; when we become the person we were created to be.
Absolutely! This article pinpoints how to “sing out” a person’s purpose. I appreciate you sharing, Dan! The book sounds interesting and insightful!
Thanks, everyone, for your fantastic comments and ideas. What insightful thoughts you captured here! Some of which I hadn’t considered in the way you presented (or reacted to) them. Sharing and “riffing” on each others’ positive and edifying comments is part of what makes life truly amazing. To think that each of us – most of us complete and total strangers – have the potential to write a simple blog post, or add a brief comment, and lift one another up in a very personal and meaningful way. That is a beautiful thing. Thank you so much for that!
I hope you win one of the books and will write a review on Amazon/Goodreads. If you didn’t win a free book, then I hope you take a chance on this story, and choose to invest in yourself. I think you are worth it! (And, I hope you believe me!). Please connect with me on Twitter/FB/IG and let’s keep a dialogue going – I would love the opportunity to learn more about each and every one of you. Until then…think of someone you think is amazing (in any kind of way)…and reach out and let them know how much they mean to you. Don’t delay – do it today. Bless you all.