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January 2023 |
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In the January 2023 Newsletter
January 22nd is the start of the Lunar New Year, or as you may know it, the Chinese New Year. Much of the world, especially in Asia, will celebrate the Year of the Rabbit over the next two weeks. Rabbits, which have been considered a symbol of fortune for over 2,000 years according to NPR, symbolize longevity, peace, and prosperity. "The Chinese Lunar New Year is a time of reunion for everyone to come together," said Sunny Yang from the Chinese Association for Science and Technology in Pittsburgh. "It's also a time to celebrate and to reflect, to sing of the joys of the start of next year, and light the path so we can go forward." To light the path forward, what are your New Year's goals that will help you find your fortune? (Note, as an executive and business coach I can help you and your organization through this process. Contact me to get this scheduled.) Acres of Diamonds Russell H. Conwell, speaker and minister, delivered the motivational talk Acres of Diamonds over 6,000 times between 1877 to 1925. Here is the parable as summarized by Sarah Ban Breathnach in her book Simple Abundance: "The story Conwell told in his lecture had enormous appeal. It recounted the life of a Persian farmer named Ali Hafed who sold his farm and left his family to travel the world in search of wealth. He looked everywhere but he could not find the diamonds he lusted after. Finally, alone and in despair as a homeless pauper, he ended his own life. His search for riches had consumed him. In the meantime, the man who bought the land from Hafed was grateful for every blade of grass that was now his and lavished love and hard work on his farm. At night, surrounded by his family and eating the fruits of his labor, he was a contented man. Finally, one day he made a remarkable discovery. In the backyard that Ali Hafed had abandoned was a diamond mind — literally an acre of diamonds. The simple farmer became wealthy beyond his wildest dreams." Opportunity As Russell Conwell said, "There is an acre of diamonds of opportunity if we look in our own back yards. Common sense is your map, spade, and knowledge. Opportunities are all around you in serving your current customers, in your current job, and more. Acres of Diamonds are within yourself, your family, neighbor, job, and country. Change your attitude, not locations or vocations. Opportunities are all around." Mike, a consummate entrepreneur, shared his wisdom during my "Pursuit of Passionate Purpose" research (p. 163 of Pursuit of Passionate Purpose). He had founded and led numerous profitable technology-based public companies that reaped hundreds of millions of dollars in return to investors. Mike insists, "Opportunity is everywhere. You have to be open. Be open to people and things you meet. Take advantage of all experiences and learn from them. The people thing is a key piece. People I have worked with over the years provide learning and open my eyes to new ways to do things. Those people nurture you, educate you, fund you, and provide support, encouragement, new ideas, and all that. People interaction is one of the most important textiles of life." Practical Pointers for Finding Your Acre of Diamonds
Summary Follow the guidance of world marathon champion Mark Plaatjes and world-class runner Johnny Halberstadt, "Your attitude defines your altitude." Opportunities are all around. What are your goals for the New Year that will help you find your fortune? If you're open to the possibilities, you'll find your acre of diamonds.
Theresa M. Szczurek, Ph.D. Pass it on. Feel free to share this newsletter, using my name and copyright declaration, with your colleagues. |
 Theresa M. Szczurek, Ph.D.
Technology and Management Solutions
303.443.8674 Phone
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