Turtles Can't Climb Trees

Alex Haley, author of Roots, is reported to have kept a picture in his office of a turtle sitting on a fence post. When someone asked him why, he would say that it was to remind him of a lesson that he learned a long time before. He said, "If you see a turtle on a fence post, it's a pretty sure bet he had some help getting there". He continued on to say that any time he was tempted to think of himself as a pretty big deal, he would look at the picture of the turtle in order to remind himself that none of us ever get to lofty positions without the help of others.

The role that you are in now is a result of the past efforts of others: parents, teachers, former bosses, mentors and others. You may be incredibly talented. You may be extraordinarily bright. You  may be perfectly suited to the role you now play; but you didn't get there solely on your own. You had help.

Now, as a manager and leader, you have the opportunity to help others; to help them make a climb that they can't make alone. Start paying your success forward. People-development is life changing for everyone involved. And, if you haven't done so recently, take a minute to send a heartfelt thank you to someone who has helped you along the way. Gratitude changes attitude.