Digging Deep for Success!

There is a very good chance you’re wondering what is captured in this picture to the right…any guesses? I’ll admit, probably not the most attractive subject, but I wanted to showcase one aspect of the object. Still not sure…it’s the roots to a huge tree as they cut in and out of the ground!

Have you ever stopped and stared at the amazing root system of a large tree? It seems to twist and turn, dig beneath grass and bushes, tunnel its way through concrete or gravel – nothing can seem to stop the powerful tree from spreading out in every direction. This particular tree was in the middle of a busy city, right along the edge of the road. It was sandwiched between black-top and sidewalk, in theory, leaving very little room to grow; however the tree was practically towering over the adjacent building. The roots most likely stretch half way across the street (where they could be met by the equally large tree growing along the other sidewalk) and smacked up against the foundation of the building 10 feet away.

I marvel at how nearly half of this living organism is buried underground, creating a system of “branches” equally as complex – if not more – than the ones seen above ground. So much happens that the naked eye never sees, yet is essential to the tree’s survival! Occasionally, we see a glimpse of this network when the roots burst their way through the ground or sidewalk, as the case with the tree pictured here. I try to imagine how the rest of the roots look as they twist and turn their way through dirt and around obstacles. How deep does everything go? Do the roots truly stretch out as far as the furthest branch?

Each business professional has to remember this lesson of a strong network. Everyone must have solid avenues of communication to receive and provide information – without it there would be very little success, just as without its root system the tree cannot survive. This network can be built of colleagues within your company, individuals that work at “supporting” businesses, or trusted friends. Whoever you choose, they will fill an important role.


How do you work on a regular basis to create and/or strengthen your network?

How far should you reach? It should be far enough to succeed, but maybe not too far into another “territory” as to interfere with someone else and distract you from your original focus?


Building a strong network takes time. This tree did not have roots strong enough to bust concrete immediately; it took years to develop just as it takes each of us awhile to reach our potential.

That’s the Golden Perspective…what’s yours?

An Opportunity in Disguise

There is something so amazing about water.

Doesn't matter if it is a small creek, flowing river, or a seemingly endless ocean, there is something that can put you at ease and at the same time intimidate you.

One recent summer night I was walking along the beach watching the waves charge toward the sand. The cool water came rushing out of its depths toward the beach, clearing a path in its wake. I stood marveling at the way the water swirled around on the sand, sometimes leaving deep holes and others large crevasses. Any footprints or sandcastles that had been made during the day were no match for the raging waters - the ocean cleaned the slate.

After the waters receded, the beach was ready for a fresh start. Whoever happened to walking along the sand had a few minutes to leave his/her own mark in the sand before the salt water returned. No matter how times I have seen it in the past - or experienced it that particular night - I am still amazed. The ocean, in just a few brief seconds, can provide someone with a brand new slate...and inadvertently a new beginning.

Sometimes a new beginning is just what you need in life; a chance to start fresh leaving behind whatever happened in the past. Whether it be a missed deadline at work, misunderstanding in a relationship, or just a simple mistake on a project, everyone needs to wipe the "sand" clean and try again. Every time the ocean water touches the shore an opportunity is provided and for you the same thing happens at the start of a new day!


Have you ever changed jobs in an effort to start fresh and build a new career?

How did you capitalize on the opportunity provided by a big "wave"?


The trick is to not avoid such situations when they present themselves. Accept these opportunities as a chance to advance your career or build new relationships - who knows what success will come as a result!

That's the Golden Perspective...what's yours?