Tuesday, August 14, 2012

On Greatness

Oscar Pistorius.  Katie Ledecky.  Aly Raisman.  Gabby Douglas.  Kimberly Rhode.  Sarah Attar.  Tom Daley.

If you have watched and been inspired by the London 2012 Olympics over the past two plus weeks like I have, these names and many more mean greatness.  Greatness for trying and greatness for winning.  Greatness for more than being there.  Greatness for being their best at that moment and representing their country, along with everyone who's ever tried hard at anything.

My favorite stories about the Olympics came from my friends Nick and Carrie who were there for about a week.  With the joy of having been part of something global where everyone is cheered for their accomplishments, they shared great moments supporting athletes.  There was the high jumper with personality and spirit and the basketball team that did not really have a chance to win.  The best part, they said, was being in the company of people witnessing all sorts of personal accomplishments.  And even some disappointments, mostly handled with grace.

Many people strive for greatness daily, at their job, as a parent, in their community, in their job search, as a student.  Most never earn a gold medal (or even bronze).  Yet they aspire to be great at what they do.

I have been considering what it takes to be a great realtor.  I have a network of close friends and colleagues who help me set goals, document plans to achieve them, and create new ways to organize my work.  I will constantly aim to be a great realtor.  I hope to have the opportunity to be great for you.