A lot of the time, business and succession is focussed on profits, top line, bottom line and other financial metrics.  One thing that we have to do is to understand the importance of the multiple human interactions that arise each day.  This is our chance to connect, affect-touch other people and most importantly, have a chance to learn more about ourselves.  This introspective aspect of human interaction is something that many people do not savour and enjoy.  A lot of a business’s time is spent on the measurable metrics, often financial only, meaning profit.  How do you measure the human aspect value of a business?

Why the introspection today?

I was affected quite significantly today by news of a colleague, the picture of health, success and on the top of her game.  She was suddenly stricken by a malady that landed her in hospital.  An unexpected, and strangely unnerving change in the straight up trajectory of her professional career.  Moments like this make me stop and reevaluate the importance of humanity in our business.  It is so important to understand that one’s business is not defined by the product itself but by the perceived value that others see in the product or service, as being important to them.  It is the customer that defines the value of a product.

It is all about the people around you that actually create success.  I truly believe that the team is what makes the whole and not just the leader alone.

Humanity.

Remember and connect with the important people around you; maybe you do not have to focus the entirety of each day to do this.  Most importantly, appreciate the important people around you.

Learn think apply!