While kayaking this past weekend and watching the swans, I realized I've learned five business lessons from them. Let me share.

You're probably familiar with Hans Christian Anderson's story "The Ugly Duckling" about the poor swan that was teased by everyone because he was such an ugly duckling and then turned out to be a beautiful swan. (No, the lesson is not judge people on what is inside them, not the outer appearance, although that's a good one.) Lesson 1: Never doubt yourself. Don't let other people's comments, criticisms, or well-meant advice deter you. Focus on your vision for your business (and yourself).

Swans mate for life. And if you ever come upon a swan sitting on the nest, watch out for its mate -- it will defend the nest and its mate with its life. Lesson 2: Loyalty and friendship. Don't belittle your friends, clients, or competitors and don't spread gossip. It will only come around to hurt you.

Once the baby swans have hatched, watch the proud mama and papa swan helping them around the pond, teaching them to swim, find food, and protect themselves. Lesson 3: Be a mentor. Help those coming up behind you.

Have you watched a swan forage for food? Not the prettiest sight -- they turn upside down with their tails waggling in the air. Lesson 4: Running a business is hard work, you have to do what it takes.

Swans are considered the epitome of grace and serenity as they float across the water. But if you were up close you'd see that under the water their feet are moving like crazy, keeping them going. Lesson 5: Sometimes you have to fake it -- always act professional. And if you're going crazy due to business, life, or whatever, you don't have to let everyone know. Make them think that all is serene.

Usually I tell you about books I think you should read. I'm now going to tell you about a book I don't think you should read -- Gretchen Rubin's The Happiness Project. Yes, I know we are all striving to be happier, but making a project out of it? Don't the problems that we have now include too much work, too many resolutions, too many to-do lists to tick off? Now we are going to make ourselves feel bad because we didn't complete all of the things that were supposed to make us happy?

The NY Times article that I read about the book (Business section, Sunday, 2/26/10) called Ms. Rubin a "wonky Martha Stewart". She already had a successful life, nice family, nice home, lots of money, etc., etc., but had a "mild case of malaise" and wanted to be happier. For her this meant choosing a theme each month, such as "energy" or "love", developing resolutions, "Splendid Truths", and "12 Commandments". I am happy that Ms. Rubin found that organizing her life and having lots of check lists and folders made her happy. But I see no reason to inflict this on other people. Feel free to find your own happiness in your own way.

As you found out in last month's newsletter (and in my blog), I am a very active volunteer with the YWCA of Bergen County. At the annual meeting last week, I was "retired" from the Board of Directors. In addition to "uninstalling" prior board and executive committee members and installing the new ones, a variety of awards were given out.

I am very proud and honored to announce that I received the Essie W. Mayer Award, which is presented to a board member who has contributed outstanding leadership to the YWCA. It was established in 1956 by the YW's board of directors in honor of Mrs. Mayer's devoted service and outstanding leadership. (I'd post a picture, but I haven't figured out how to take a photo of my shiny silver tray.)

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