Are You A Smarty Pants?
"Be Smart"
Years ago I started telling our kids those two words when they left for school every morning. I didn't plan it -- the words just came out. Years and many mornings have gone by and I still punctuate each day with the idea.
It was bedtime last week when Andrew, 11 years old and front-loaded with energy and attitude, cornered me. "Dad, what do you mean by ‘be smart’?" If you've ever been around kids, then you know how they can blind-side you. So I did my best to dodge the question as I switched off the light and ducked for the door.
Being Smart
Later I wondered: What DID I mean? What do you do to "Be Smart?" I wish I could brag that the answer came in a flash of creative inspiration but it didn't. I had to think about it for hours. About midnight I started writing things down, and I put a list on the refrigerator door the next morning. Andrew read them and walked off with, "I get it. Thanks, Dad." From our herd that's a supreme compliment.
11 Steps To "Be Smart"
I came up with 11 steps – because even numbers are boring. Think them over and see if you have anything to add. How can YOU "Be Smart?"
1. Pay attention to the people and things around you.
2. Ask questions and then listen more than you talk.
3. Make sure you understand the instructions before you start.
4. Do your homework -- do the hard things first.
5. Find the fun in everything.
6. Respect everyone.
7. Don't fall in love with your own ideas. If you do a good job, people will notice.
8. Hang around with smart people. There is always someone smarter than you are.
9. Average is never amazing -- discover your difference and then be different.
10. Never feel too satisfied by success. Constantly ask, "How can we make it better?"
11. Use the talents and intelligence you have well. They are a gift, so don't waste them.
You Are As Smart As You Want To Be
NOTE TO MYSELF -- Never get so old and think you are so wise that you forget to view the world through the eyes of a child. Things are simple, obvious and fun if we allow them to be.
Okay, have a great day and Be Smart.
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Andy Johnston is an multi-faceted communication professional with deep experience from strategic planning, to messaging, to marketing, to media, to events, to training, to creative direction … and there are several other ”to’s.” Andy is known for his energy, creativity and his unique ability to discover the key results that must be generated – and then to develop ingenious ways to engage and motivate audiences.
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