Executive Coach, Lifelong learner, Dad, Bass player, Outdoor Enthusiast, Former Apple Worldwide Director of Finance.
[DSD] What it takes to build something great
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I visited Portugal last week - my first time there. The country is dotted with exquisite cathedrals, monasteries, and castles in nearly every city. They are a testament to the riches brought back from their global explorations at sea. As I was visiting one of the oldest universities in the world, established in 1290 in Coimbra, I saw first hand, They celebrated knowledge. The library was adorned with ornately carved, golden sheathed bookshelves, rich mahogany, 7-foot thick walls to manage the climate, and decoratively painted ceilings. It was a testament to the importance of information. In the cities at the coast, they also celebrated their explorers. Vasca de Gama (first sea route to India), Pedro Cabal (“discovered” Brazil), Ferdinand Magellan (circumnavigating the world). These were men not just of knowledge, but of courage. They set out for the unknown, with a goal in mind, ready to face whatever challenge arose. The result of these two forces — knowledge and courage — was a powerful, rich nation. What struck me is the lesson we can take as leaders today. Knowledge alone isn’t enough. Nor is courage. It takes both to be a great leader. And it takes an ambitious goal. Perhaps you take some inspiration from the Portuguese of the 16th century as well. What is your big goal, and which do you need more of — skillset of mindset — to achieve it? To beginning your great adventure, P.S. If you’re wondering what happened to Portugal’s riches and why they fell off the world stage, it’s because they suffered a devastating earthquake in 1755 with an estimated economic cost of 50-70% of GDP. That would be 100x as destructive as the recent LA fires. |
Rusty Gaillard
Executive Coach, Lifelong learner, Dad, Bass player, Outdoor Enthusiast, Former Apple Worldwide Director of Finance.
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