As a weekly columnist for almost a decade, and as the author of 12 books, I am embarrassed to admit, for many years of my life, I was not a reader. Reading is one of the activities that most directly correlates to success in every area of life. One of my favorite book reviewers and bookstore owners was a learned gentleman who had a motto that stated, “The more books you read, the taller you grow.” Truer words were never spoken.

If you have been following the news media’s coverage of the worldwide energy status, you have probably heard multiple times that we are in the midst of an energy crisis. The word “crisis” can be translated from an ancient Chinese sailing term meaning “an opportunity on a dangerous wind.” Rarely are there opportunities without a crisis, or a crisis without opportunities.

A recent worldwide survey revealed that there are 6,800 languages and dialects spoken globally today. While I am often amazed how inaccurate communications can get, when you consider the number of languages spoken, it is somewhat amazing that we communicate at all.

I will always remember George Burns stating, “If you love your job, you will never work a day in your life.” George Burns enjoyed his life and his work for a century. If you enjoy what you do, you can substitute the “Thank God it’s Friday” club for the “Thank God it’s Monday” club. Beyond what you do for a living, you will receive tremendous benefits if you enjoy the people you work with.

When you start out in life or in business, it may seem as though you are doing everything yourself, and, in reality, you may be; however, there will come a day when you will discover new dimensions of your own talent and have people on your team whose talents will complement and not compete with yours. 

Whether it’s the holidays or end-of-year tax planning, December is the time that many people think about giving.  While any motivation that causes us to give is probably good, I believe we should begin to look at giving as a way to define who we are instead of simply providing a tax deduction or fulfilling our holiday gift list.