What does “Do right” mean to you? Doing what’s right is often difficult, but always simple. We naturally know what’s right by looking inward and honestly consulting our consciences. A man who does what’s right because someone forces him to is less significant than a man who willingly chooses to do right.
There’s a lot of people talking, nowadays, but it sure doesn’t seem like there’s much listening going on. It feels like the noise escalates as people shriek to have their opinions validated and their beliefs heard. As the voices get louder, people stop listening.
The continual clamor on news channels, social media and even in neighborhood meetings reminds me about the importance of paying attention. One of my favorite stories from the “Chicken Soup for the Soul” series exemplifies the idea that we all need to be heard.
Maybe your idea of becoming a successful leader involves attracting a multitude of followers, people you can lead to a specific destination. But a significant leader doesn’t create followers, they create great leaders.
So, what’s the difference between success and significance? I’m glad you asked!
Success is achieving goals and finding “happiness” on a very shallow level. You leave no legacy. You make no difference in the grand scheme of things. You might be a successful writer, and sell thousands of books, but does what you write touch your readers’ hearts and souls?