Iron fist

In the early days of my company, hearing me page an employee to call my extension, (109), or come to my office would strike fear in an employee’s heart. I have always been fiery and passionate about my businesses and I loved every company that I ever worked for with all of my fiber. I was not shy about telling someone exactly how they stood with me, good or bad. Not many wanted to come to my office and face the music when they had messed up.

As I have grown old and transitioned management to others who are kinder and gentler, the halls no longer resonate with pages of 109. Gone are the heart to heart counseling sessions that made the windows rattle and doors shake. I have had more than one person lament the fact to me that I no longer wield the iron rod, thinking it was good for our company at times to have my fiery, take no prisoners, big stick ready to whop someone upside the head when things started going south.

Hmmm I am content that the kinder gentler approach has its merit, but I still cling to the belief that “iron sharpens iron” and sometimes it is necessary to wield the stick instead of the carrot in order to get the attention of the stubborn. As I inch closer and closer to going out to pasture and reflect upon my career, I feel good that I always had the best interest of those around me at heart. Unfortunately I never had anyone to teach me as I grew my businesses. By contrast I have tried very hard to teach those around me to succeed at business and life, and I feel that there are many shortcuts that are there for the asking for the few who are willing to listen to the old grey-heads.

If you wish to sharpen your skills, my recommendation is to listen carefully to those whom you consider wise particularly those who have some years on them. It might be a little painful and hurt your pride a little, but you will survive and who knows, maybe you will thrive. Remember the Bible states that iron sharpens iron.

Proverbs 27:17
As iron sharpens iron,
So a man sharpens the
countenance of his
friend.