A "Dickens" of a Career!

One of the courses that I teach for the Institute for Organization Management is entitled "IOM & Beyond". One of the areas that we discuss in that session is about being engaged in work that you are passionate about. 

Jo and I recently flew to Nashville where I spoke for the Tennessee Valley Authority's annual "Valley Economic Developers Conference". During our four-night experience in "Music City" we were able to enjoy the sights and sounds of that wonderful community. From "honky tonks" to concerts, we witnessed so many talented men and women who were pursuing careers that they are passionate about. My good friend, Gerald Mills with the Winston County Economic Development Partnership in Mississippi, even arranged for me to sing with two bands in two of the well known clubs on Broadway in Nashville.

I have told you many times that I am one of the most fortunate people on the face of God's earth. Every day I wake up excited about my career, inspired by the great men and women I work with, and energized & challenged by the work they give me.

In Nashville, I found new inspiration in a 4' 11" giant of a man! On our last night in Nashville, Jo and I attended the Grand 'Ole Opry. One of the hosts for the four segments of the show was an entertainer that I've been familiar with for many, many years. James Cecil Dickens, better known as "Little" Jimmy Dickens has been a member of the "Opry" for 60 years. Born in Bolt, West Virginia, in December 1920, Dickens began performing as a child. Now, at age 90, the diminuitive Dickens is still a regular on the Grand 'Ole Opry stage, entertaining audiences with his songs and drawing huge laughter with his stories. His singing voice is not as strong as it it once was, but his heart is bigger than ever... his passion for his career is as strong as it ever was.

Each of us is aware of just how short life really is... Jo and I have had that reality hit us hard in the past week. My message for you is that if you are not happy with your career... if you are not passionate about what you do, now is the time to seek a change. Of course, change does not necessarily mean a move... it could be as simple as a change in structure, process, responsibilities, or programming.

If you lead others, you have the awesome responsibility of ensuring that your employees are engaged in the workplace... and that they understand the important role they are playing in the vision and success of the organization. Our work must be meaningful... and it should be enjoyable! Let us know how The Ewart Group can assist you in 2011.