Sam Walton took pride in helping his employees build self-esteem. Aristotle made Excellence a way of life. And Tom Watson lived to challenge the status quo. Lastly, the drive for Heroism resulted in Bill Gates' plan to put his operating system onto every computer.
Heroism is not the "winning" or the specific goals themselves that tap into broader human aspirations, but the ambition, daring or heroism evident in those goals. Henry Ford was by far the most famous industrial hero of his day. At first sight, his ambition to "democratize the automobile" and his introduction of the $5 day for his workers might indicate a strongly altruistic Purpose, a desire to bring happiness to customers and workers alike. But this is an illusion. The specific social and economic goals that he pursued at different times were less important to him than his ambition to use the Ford Motor Company as his "machine." He certainly exercised his will to improve the world.
Each of us aspires for greatness. Although I crave the capacity to lead, my greatest satisfaction comes when I can help others become hero. How about you?
Heroism is not the "winning" or the specific goals themselves that tap into broader human aspirations, but the ambition, daring or heroism evident in those goals. Henry Ford was by far the most famous industrial hero of his day. At first sight, his ambition to "democratize the automobile" and his introduction of the $5 day for his workers might indicate a strongly altruistic Purpose, a desire to bring happiness to customers and workers alike. But this is an illusion. The specific social and economic goals that he pursued at different times were less important to him than his ambition to use the Ford Motor Company as his "machine." He certainly exercised his will to improve the world.
Each of us aspires for greatness. Although I crave the capacity to lead, my greatest satisfaction comes when I can help others become hero. How about you?
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