Lessons From Family

Every family has their sayings.

The little quips that get used all the time in response to whatever’s happening.

They’re the same ones that show up in conversations decades later, and often the reason we say things like, “Oh no, I’m turning into my parents.”

For me, many of those sayings became a playbook that I use today. A handful of lessons that turned out to be pretty good leadership principles – at least once I realized that’s what they were.

Here are a few of my favorites:

“It takes all kinds.”
Whenever there were conflicts between people, I knew this was coming. “Well.. it takes all kinds to get a job done. Can you do it all yourself?” You don’t have to like everyone you work with, but you do have to respect them. Success rarely happens without understanding that different perspectives, especially the ones that challenge you, are what make teams great – and what challenge you to become better.

“All I had was a pen and a notepad.”
This statement was usually in response to why something didn’t get finished, or to why we couldn’t move forward without xyz investment. “Okay, well, all I had was a pencil and a notebook and I made it work. So go figure it out.” It’s easy to chase shiny objects, largely because it’s fun, but often it’s not what’s needed for success. A reminder that you probably already have enough to start. You don’t even need perfect conditions.. just the willingness to start moving – and keep moving.

“Sales cures all.”
If I had a dollar for every time I heard this.. Simple, but true. It’s easy to get caught up in office politics and the process of business, but in most cases, a little momentum with clients is all you actually need. The rest tends to take care of itself. Sorry consultants.

“Where there’s mystery, there’s margin.”
Maybe my favorite. This was a rally cry around embracing the unknown. The idea that curiosity and a little courage often create a wealth of opportunity.

“When one door closes, another opens.”
Whenever things didn’t go our way, this was the phrase. It was a direct channeling of the abundance mindset. Every loss, every rejection, is just an opportunity for something better – if you’re open to it. It’s wild how often I’ve seen this pan out for people who embrace it.

All of these phrases were tossed around in kitchens, car rides, and late-night conversations; just as much as they were overheard in the office.

When I was younger they sounded like filler. Just a thing you said when you didn’t know what to say.

But they all were more than that. A chance for quiet reflection and quick reset – to bounce back into the game and continue pushing forward.

Today, I’ve embraced that they’re more than just a thing you say. I haven’t met a scenario these didn’t hold true.

So now I’m curious..

What are the lessons you carried from your environment?

The ones that still guide you today?

Or even just the ones that just make you smile.

Connect with me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottschoeneberger