Celebrating the Power of Giving: Inspiring Stories from the Heart

‘Tis the season to be grateful to those who give back

This week I had an extraordinary experience speaking at a conference in Denver. I was the closing keynote for the 22nd Annual Book & Benefit fundraiser for my friend Tommy Spaulding. Tommy has been raising money for the Tommy Spaulding Leadership Institute that has impacted the lives of thousands of high school students for 25 years. It is a passion of his to help influence the leaders of tomorrow to lead with their hearts and love: two things we can always use more of in our conflicted world.

To be invited to present was an honor. It is always good to be with so many purpose-driven, good people.

I met students who spoke about their experiences at the Institute, how they had grown and learned about leadership, how they made new friends and had remarkable experiences. The companies that sponsored the event were so passionate about these remarkable young people and gave abundantly to support the cause.

In the dinner before the event, I got to meet these sponsors as we gathered to get to know each other. The food was delicious, but the conversation was even better. I got to meet successful businesspeople from all kinds of industries. What so impressed me was not so much their business success, but what they were doing with their success. They were all actively engaged with their families and communities, their churches, and their favorite charities. These folks made it very clear that their drive for success was so that they could fund more goodness and love in the world.

Each one of these sponsors talked about creating workplaces where people felt accepted and valued. Where they created opportunities and growth. I was so overwhelmed by their drive to make their organizations, their communities, and their families places of joy and purpose and love. And, in turn, they all attested that that it was goodness that drove their success. They believed that good people finish first!

Here are few of my new friends and heroes and a few things they do to create great cultures and successful business’s.

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Jamie Cord From JT Logistics. Their company motto is “We Go Beyond.” One way Jamie works to create a culture of excellence is he gives each employee two poker chips with the logo of the company on one side and “Create Amazing” on the other. When anyone see’s work that is amazing and goes beyond expectations, they can give that person one of these cool little chips. It builds morale and goodwill, inspires teamwork and cooperation. So simple and so effective. Jamie also has a “Challenge” coin made of metal, like the ones military leaders give when they see effort that goes above and beyond. It is his way of saying to his people that he sees their effort and it is appreciated. When his people get one of these coins or a poker chip, they feel like champions.

My next new friend and hero is Brian Flegel at Clark Construction. They build things like hospitals, stadiums, and museums, as well as highways and airports. All amazing projects that inspire. Brian started as a carpenter helping his father when he was 11 years old and has been building stuff ever since. What impressed me about Brian was his passion for learning. He is always looking for another good book or another enriching experience. A lifelong student of leadership and life, Brian is passionate about learning and it shows in his support for the Leadership Institute. Brian gives kids early guidance on how to live a better life. That was evident in every conversation we had. He inspired me with his commitment and passion, for his work faith and family.

Last and certainly not least is my friend Tommy Spaulding. I hadn’t seen Tommy in years and yet when we got back together it seemed like yesterday. Tommy is a force for good in the world. He puts his heart and soul into everything he touches. How can you not love spending time with a leader like that?

My point is this, everywhere you go there are good people who can inspire you and help you grow. Seek out people who can make you want to be a better leader, a better parent, a better spouse or partner. Don’t miss the chance to engage, to learn their stories, and to offer your service and help to them as well. They are all around us.

Who has made a difference in your life lately? I would love to hear your stories.

With gratitude,

The Gratitude Files???

Anxiety at Work podcast. Each week, my co-author and dear friend,?Adrian Gostick, and I are grateful for the opportunity to talk to leading authorities on mental health and explore the causes of workplace stress and anxiety, along with practices that are proven to reduce tension & cultivate calm.

Key Highlights: ??

• Impact of Past Experiences on Present Work Life
• Physical Responses to Stress
• Importance of Physical Movement
• Connecting with the Inner Self

Join us to learn from our new friend Chantal Donnelly, a physical therapist, wellness expert, and the author of the new book, Settled: How to Find Calm in a Stress-Inducing World.?

Our Latest Work ??

I'm thrilled to introduce a project that reflects our passion and commitment to building a great culture at work:

The Gratitude Habit, a 90-day guided journal curated by Adrian & Chester

This isn't merely a journal- it's a movement intended to fill our lives with heartfelt gratitude.

? Exclusive Pre-Sale Offer ?

When you pre-order 200+ copies of "The Gratitude Habit," you give your team a path to gratitude and an exclusive 30-minute conversation with Chester, who will share his insights on the heart of gratitude and its power to transform.

What makes "The Gratitude Habit" a Game-Changer?

?? A guided 90-day journey to discover gratitude

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?? More than a journal- its a catalyst for positive change

? P.S. - The regular price is $22.95, but when you pre-order 200+ copies, you get a special rate of $15.00 per copy. Email [email protected] to take advantage of this exclusive offer and book your session with Chester Elton

Visit?The Culture Works?for free resources including videos, podcast episodes, and more to help you build an "all in"?culture?of?gratitude.

Leading with Gratitude?& Anxiety at Work? are sold at fine bookstores everywhere.