Anthony Pangilinan

Life to the Max!

// May 13th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

I was the first one who sang the song “I will be here” on national television. It was a rare engagement for one used to hosting and newscasting. My brother-in-law and top performer Gary Valenciano backed me up (Yes, I managed to convince him to do that). After the “act”, I encouraged him to sing it solo, as I saw the song’s potential under his care. True enough, the song hit the charts and it soared. In the meantime, I took a back step from singing. And I’ve never moved forward in that direction again! (to the delight of my audiences!)

We were all meant to be “maximized,” in special, unique directions. To be the best we can be. Gary in singing, and I, in training. Certainly not the only areas we were meant to excel in, but truly distinct ones. The point is this: excellence is not a unique calling; the specific engagement is.

Such was the theme of my Thursday seminar at SMX: “To The Max: Maximum Results and Maximized Relationships.”

Here are the 6 principles shared for your reading and “consideration.” They are presented as “Maximizer’s Questions.” The idea is to answer these questions honestly and thoroughly every so often to keep our lives in check.

Maximizer’s Question #1: How well do I know myself?

“To know” is to comprehend fully and confidently. How confident and thorough is my knowledge of self?

Because who I am should ultimately be the basis of what I do and where I will expect maximum results plus the most rewarding relationships.
How well I know myself in the body, the soul and spirit. In my physical life, my emotional life and spiritual life.

The “indivisible whole” as Gandhi puts it.

And as I look at myself, I must keep in mind that it is the awareness of my gifts, talents, and skills that will open the door to maximizing them.

We can only maximize what we have! Yes, the five loaves and three pieces of fish were multiplied to feed thousands. But Jesus needed to know what was available in order to multiply it.
“It is the qualities that Tim embodies in his life off the field that truly sets him apart. He is unashamed of his faith, and he lives a life that consistently reflects his values, day in and day out.” – Jeremy Lin of the New York Knicks of  quarterback Tim Tebow.
Seek within, offer it, and watch the world get filled!
Maximizer’s Question #2: What do I really want from my life?
It goes by many names: Vision, Mission, Purpose, Goal, Target, Objective, Aim, KPIs (Key
Performance Indicators), CSFs (Critical Success Factors), the Personal Agenda. It only means one thing: What do I really want?
If what I want is presently dictated by others – by parent, boss, child or peer – what I eventually get will be determined by others. And I am a mere tool for someone else’s gain. I must watch out and keep away from this tragic way of life: “When accomplishing my to do list is completing someone else’s bucket list!”
“There are only two types of people in the world: the realists and the dreamers. The realists know where they are going; the dreamers are already there.”
- Robert Orben
So let us rally together to protect our freedom, secure the Scarborough Shoal and keep Jessica Sanchez alive and singing!
Maximizer’s Question #3: What is going on in me and around me impacting my plans?

It’s not just my area of gifting, it’s my state of being. I can only maximize me if I know what to work on, and where I am at any given moment!

I am a triathlete and the Subic International Triathlon (SUBIT) held last weekend is perhaps one of three events a serious triathlete will not miss. But I did, deliberately. With a rare public seminar, my wife’s 5^thbook launch, and on ongoing home transfer in progress – all on the same week – the
event had to go in the priority list.
Not a few were surprised. Some were disappointed. My competitors were overjoyed! (Haha, they’d have more of the … pictures!)
But I have only some much time, energy and resources – and they were not enough to get that
commitment done, and done well.

SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Strengths), the Force Field Analysis, the Environmental Scan, SONAs (State of the Nation), Employee Satisfaction and Engagement Index, SWS Surveys…We do it for our institutions, we must do it for ourselves.
But Anthony, when is it time to stop gathering information and time to make a decision? Simple when it’s TFC. Time For Commitment.
Sure, the online education industry is a $35B business. But so is human trafficking. I invite you to join me in volunteering, talking about, making a humble donation to Called to Rescue as we launch Rescue Jam, a series of school tours to spread awareness of how serious human trafficking is in our country today. But with enough awareness, anger!, and smart collaborative work, we can prevent this from spreading…now overtaking arms smuggling and drug trafficking as the number one illegal trade in the world.
A past truly accepted, leads to a present fully embraced, and a future well lived. “We are all in the gutter, but some of us are looking at the stars.” – Oscar Wilde
The first three Maximizer’s Questions deal with WHAT to do for a maximized life. The next three will deal with the HOW.
Maximizer’s Question #4: How can system and process match my efforts towards success?”
“The less effort, the more powerful you will be.” – Bruce lee
It’s most certainly not just what you do but how you do it. Daniel Ek, founder and head of Spotify, is an online music site currently revolutionizing the worldwide entertainment industry.

His principle for success is based on “process” in practice: “make it convenient for people to pay, and they will pay, rather than steal.” It’s about making things easier for people who live in a very complex and complicated world. And it most certainly “pays off.” Ek is worth at least US$300M today after less than two years in the business.
A top NBC anchor’s alarm clock goes off at 4:10am every weekday for the past 18 years. TV Host Matt Lauer calls himself a ”Creature of habit.” And this habit has been a significant factor in this “creature’s” dependability, depth of knowledge, and punctuality through the years. Worth the effort to do it over and over again? Well, it helps him earn a current paycheck of $25M per year.

“Jeremy Lin “earned it.” He “worked hard, stayed humble. He lives the right way and plays the right way.” – Anne Duncan US Sec of Education
Maximizer’s Question #5: What change/s should I welcome and anticipate in my life?
We all need a little stress. The classic experiment of putting amoeba in a glass container resembling a perfect environment: adequate oxygen, enough light, and ample food. What happens to it? It dies. Scientists’ conclusion? No stress, you’re dead.
And since we will get stressed, might as well gets stressed for a bigger purpose!
Consider Ali Ferzat, a Syrian cartoonist who mocked his country’s dictator Bashar Assad through his provocative drawings. Both hands his were broken by pro-Assad forces. He healed, recovered, and went back to lampooning Assad again!
Too extreme? Then go Manal Al-sharif’s route, who videod herself driving a vehicle in Saudi Arabia where it is forbidden for women to go behind the wheel…and posted it on YouTube!  She got nine days in jail and was subjected to public shame. Today, more women are “violating” the law, getting imprisoned, and some even lashed. But because of Manal, more women are beginning to “get back into the drivers seat!”
It is a changing world and if we are to be maximized, it’s time we embraced ourselves as Techno Sapiens soon to be equipped with Personal Mobile Computers (not phones), Smart computer-driven Cars, and “Augmented Reality” products (like Eyeglasses that flash reminders on the side of the lenses informing of you the last Twitter and Facebook posts of the person you look at and currently approaching!
“Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds.”  - Albert Einstein
Maximizer’s Question #6: Where do I draw my energy and enthusiasm to accomplish the goals of my
life?
“I don’t want to survive, I want to live.” – Captain (Wall e)
Three words have been used to describe Sheryl Sandberg, a mother of two, and COO of a social networking company: energy, passion and optimism. Notice, though she works for an online enterprise, “technical” wasn’t there. And even if she holds the position of COO, “operational” is not even close. All three descriptions are of the…heart. Any connection between that and the fact that the company she runs is worth over US$600B? The same company that encourages hundreds of millions of lives day in and day out. You are connected to this company. So will this article, as I post
it on Facebook!
What excites you? What drives you? What is the ultimate source of enthusiasm for your life? That will spell the difference between a marvelously crafted plan and a truly fulfilling and maximized life.
To start strong and end even better? Here’s a good tip: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last.” He has the first say to what you go through and the final word before it’s conclusion!

// May 13th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

// May 7th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

Swimming (life) lessons

I’ve decided to write about a swim workout last week and draw parallel lessons in undertaking business and journeying through life.

Let’s start from the very beginning: a swim workout is work, it isn’t a recreational activity. And considering the world of sports competitions, there will be others working out as well, in their own locations and with their respective teams, with one goal in mind: to beat you to the finish line. If I may paraphrase a line from a Christian devotional I read a few days ago, “Work is drudgery for tomorrow’s victory.”

So, it is essential to show up for the workout, and to do so regularly. A triathlon involves three sports: swim, bike and run. I love running and biking can be very engaging, with the sights and sounds (and the smog) of a chosen route.  But swimming? You can only stretch your imagination so far when all you see is a straight bold line underneath, reminding you to stick to your own lane! But thought it’s the least of the three I prefer to de, I need to navigate that pool to keep myself tuned up and within Ironman time ranges.

Missing a swim workout more than once or twice a week will bring me back to zero in form and endurance. That consistency is non-negotiable, and it will be complied with, whatever the cost. What are your non-negotiable commitments?

“Swim from the core!” “Stretch those long arms tp propel you forward!” “Be patient, and glide.” These statements play in my head over and over. I need to stick to form, for efficiency, speed and survival! Lots of sense. I could barely swim a hundred meters when I started a few years ago. though I had all the power, without form, I was like gunpowder randomly spread out. But stuff it well, light it up, and toss it the right time and place… that’s major impact! Now, swimming 1.5 kilometers in preparation for a race is a “light workout.”

Thanks to coach Anthony Lozada, son of the legendary Olympian Bert Lozada, for the hours of practice he has invested in this “super busy” professional. I need to spend more time with him, for without the guidance, the watchful eye that has spotted the bad habits, and the “pain” (a coach’s specialty) so freely inflicted upon me, I’d be “finished out” of my races, unable to even start the succeeding legs.

Drawing from the experts is not an option for one who wishes to survive and thrive in today’s competitive world. And we are fortunate that more than ever before, we can access the wisdom and the knowledge of those “in the know”, if only we are hungry for them. Coach Anthony has been a great source of learning and inspiration in the field of swimming. But he is wise and knows how to leverage. I am seeing him for the nth time as a participant in my public management training course this week. Indeed, “mutual accommodation” is key.

Acknowledgement swimming as my weakest of the three sports involved in a triathlon has also been helpful in improving my performance over time. For while I am one for constant improvement, I am also a realist: I will never come out first of any field in the first leg of a triathlon competition. I’ve accepted that. My kids are aware of that. And my friendly competitors in my age bracket know that all too well.

Hence, the battle has been really defined by my performance in the bike, and finally, the run. My only goal during the swim, apart from not drowning, is not to be left too behind so I can catch up in the next two phases. Humility. Patience. And a strong set of legs and lungs to make up for lost time. All the while, keeping perspective.

Keeping perspective, all throughout a 5-6 hour, 70.3 mile race – or life, for that matter – is ultimately what matters most. I could’ve focused on drills, got obsessed with form, and stayed frantic with my training distance and time. But no, it is not and never has been worth it. Personally, what I appreciate most about this exercise is my improved personal health, a tummy size and body weight in check, and chance to do some reflective thinking – even article writing- as I negotiate each lap.

A little shove

// April 22nd, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

We all need one, occasionally.

I had one yesterday when my wife reminded me (okay, she didn’t “shove” me, but “whispers can be more powerful than shouts!”) to be mindful of what I share with audiences when I speak of my personal experiences with people and clients. Hey, it’s my job: motivating people and organizations with principles and true-to-life stories of what worked exceptionally, and what failed, miserably. But she had a point: in my lifting up, no one should ever be put down.

Destructive thinking? By all means, get them exposed. Outdated ways? Without hesitation, shoot them down. Abusive practices? Number one in my agenda “to obliterate.” But not individual people nor distinguished brands. They are never to be abused for personal advantage.

Maricel, the Nala of my life (Remember, Simba’s childhood friend and eventual wife?): will say as it is, as is, where is!

We need a little shove once in a while. A “shot in the arm,” every so often.

I’ve been fortunate to have a job where I am evaluated (more so, “critiqued”) regularly. As a management trainer, I get immediate “written” (and online) feedback from audiences I engage with, and it is with “great anticipation” that I read through what they say, and the corresponding “grade” they provide. Every so often, certain “generous” individuals give more than asked for and provide “additional feedback” which they feel is an obligation for them and crucial for me to hear! That’s ok. I love “beef tapa” in the morning, but “feedback is (still) the breakfast of champions.”

It’s all good. Strengths to maximize, weaknesses to compensate for. And yes, behaviors that need a second look. How I wish all professionals were given this constant feedback – above, across and below – 360 degree feedback in its purest, and most powerful, form.

But the evaluation form had to be provided, the time to fill it up had to be in the agenda. Let people know you want it! (And knowing “Who said it?!” is not your primary agenda!)

The other day, my 12-year old Hannah, off to a sleepover, tweeted a picture of a cute and lonely cat with a one liner she pasted on herself – “I miss you” – with the names of my wife, her siblings, and yours truly, around the endearing cat’s face. It hit me I haven’t had enough personal time with my daughter the past days, and it made me do quick changes in my weekend schedule. Wise: if I didn’t get it, my twitter followers would have come to her rescue!

Be sober about it. “Criticism won’t hurt you, unless it should.” I did have to hear I need to practice “constant sensitivity” when on board a training or speaking engagement; it was crucial to be reminded to start and end my session on time; it was timely to hear a family member’s cry that I wasn’t just a boss but a father, too. I fail to take these things into account, I send a very simple message to my “stakeholders:” they’re wasting their time giving me all these information and they might as well shift their efforts where they will be appreciated, and acted upon.

But be encouraged by feedback and reminders, too. “No one ever throws stones at a fruitless tree.” If you will be given feedback, by someone who doesn’t really have to, you must be making an impact, and the opportunity to sharpen yourself further is at hand. Scripture tells us, “Iron sharpens iron, and so one man sharpens another.” Hats off (or gloves off?) to boxing world champion Manny Pacquiao, currently in Baguio City, who physically trains in the morning, and who receives spiritual training – feedback and encouragement – at night. That leads to an extraordinary, supernatural punch!

When Philippine Rugby Association President Alvin San Diego gave me a call early last week requesting for a motivational talk to the Philippine Volcanoes before they started competing at the just-concluded HSBC Asian 5 Nations Rugby tournament, it wasn’t a difficult choice for me to make. While I didn’t know much about the sport and our country’s engagement with it (best I knew about them was the billboard fiasco : ), I knew it was a team that was making our country proud.

With a background from Alvin, some information on their site, and few pointers from the coaching staff, I was tasked to help increase their confidence from the first minute of the game so they establish lead – and leadership –early on. My message was focused and simple: train your thoughts – cleanse them if you must – to hit the ground running, with a clear vision for winning.

Just a little shove perhaps, but am an honored to have been part of the experience of seeing our team sweep and top this series and move and “tackle” towards the vision of a rugby World Cup championship!

Bizworld – just keep at it!

// March 25th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

I’ve overindulged. And I am paying the price for it.

Worse, others are taking the hit. Failed commitments, way-over deadline submissions (including this one), lost business and personal opportunities.

And I write this to “get a hold of myself”, to redirect and “stop the bleeding” (though in some cases, it’s already too late).

It wasn’t always like this.

Just a couple of weeks ago there was more “balance”. The pins were constantly in the air and I was satisfied with my efforts to please various audiences as an effective juggler: commitments in check schedules aligned and the “gentle but firm ‘No.” a constant accessory.

But those “tools” have been over-whelmed. They can’t keep up. The external forces have gained much ground. And they are intent in seizing as much control as they possibly can in every area of my life.

But I’m not giving up. This has happened before. And there is a way out. It may be a new way out , but there is one. And I will find it. If I keep at it, and refuse to give up. “Weather –weather” lang ‘yan (“It will change with the weather”) as Kuya Kim reminds us.

The acknowledgement of the need and the resolve to stay in the fight are twin decisions to stay afloat in times such as these. (We need to practice triage here-keeping your head above water and not drowning is the first order of the day! Prioritization is the key).

Among my enemies’ most effective weapon is deception. If they can give me a semblance of winning, a perspective that “it isn’t all that bad,” or a belief that “this condition has progressed beyond my ability to cope”, they will have succeeded in putting me in a vulnerable corner where they will eventually go for the kill.

Just be willing to admit it. And be sensitive to “the writings on the wall”.

Failure isn’t fatal. Has never been in my life.

But it is important to acknowledge it, to verbalize that standards have been compromised, that accounts are getting hurt (if they haven’t jumped ship yet!).

And to remember that failing is part of a bigger, continuous, but will- end-some- day process.

Just before I boarded a plane back to Manila the other night, I spoke to my eldest son Donny:”Dad, I wont see you na (anymore). Just wake me up when you get home so I can greet you?”

I had taken the last flight back from a two day program in Davao, to arrive midnight. But Donny had a 10 a.m flight the next day for a three night Ilocos school tour (the field trips today) and there was no way I could see him in the morning… as I had to leave 6:30 am for my Saturday radio-TV show, Magbago Tayo(Let us change). To think I already had a two night trip earlier to Singapore to start my week! I wanted to skip the show altogether because I didn’t feel motivated to call for collective change first and fast!

I will have a good chat with my wife this morning, and probably go on a bike ride together (we are both preparing for the IronMan triathlon competitions in Cebu this August)to re-establish contact.
I may have made the decision to make some changes in the conduct of my life, but aligning those efforts with my “significant efforts” is the next crucial step.

I do not have a monopoly over truth, and deciding what has to be done to get back on track. The cause of the problem is sometimes the least credible to determine the best way out!

I sense our conversation will start with an apology on my part, for my lack of support and the resulting stress in her life!

The others are pretty much part of a managers’ toolbox: immediate calls to reschedule some appointments; re establishing personal time alone for prayer, strategy and the rest; core team, realignment meet to make sure all same page, and to humbly ask support on some critical areas of operation; passing on the responsibilities and possibly some business to friendly competitors to prevent further long term loss; backing out of an established deal-disappointing a partner- but praying whatever fair amount to compensate for losses incurred in the process.

I am sure there will be more ideas as I engage with and listen to others. Sometimes it’s just an innovation” of a previous solution; occasionally it’s an “invention” , a completely new answer that blows my mind.

What’s important is the willingness to acknowledge and the decision to keep at it. If I may paraphrase Kevin Costner: “If you make a way for it, it will come.”

People first

// March 11th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

“People first, money next, things last.” Couldn’t be any clearer than that. And everything else revolved around those three priority areas as financial management counselor, New York Times, best-seller and two –time Emmy award winner Suze Orman inspires, “convicted,” and mesmerized her local audiences in her recent pro bono Philippine visit, thanks to shipping magnate and Suze’s friend Doris Magsaysay Ho.
My wife, Maricel and I were privileged to join Suze’s time with BPI (Bank of the Philippines Islands) executives upon the invitation of Roni Merk to hear her many stories of shock, recovery and prosperity – perfect for the Pinoy telenovela audiences.
“Stop telling your people how much you can grow their income through this or that financial instrument,” Suze advised the media, “instead show them horror stories of those who didn’t invest their money when they could.” It is true: facts tell, stories sell.
And we bought her own story as she related how she lost a $50,000 loan from friends to start her own business to a broker who speculated with it, in less than three months. “Some brokers get you broker!” But she remains thankful —- to this day — for that major loss. It served as a turning point and defining moment in her life. “Sad to say, it’s hitting rock bottom. Not too many learn from others mistakes.”
Miraculously (yes, she attributes all to God), she got that money back with 18% interest from the same firm that invested her money after she sued them upon the advice of one of its own officers!
Displaying the guts she’s become known for in her top-rating show, she challenged the banking officials present NOT to follow the example of her own dearly loved country, the United States, by lending its customers more than what they knew the customer could actually pay!
That practice has left a sixth of the American population of 300 million, or 50 million people, in poverty, with no clear solution in sight. “Sometimes when you help, you actually hurt. When you hurt, you actually help,” she said.
And so while she shared some sadness with her Pinoy house help in the US for cutting their annual trip home to the young Philippines “so they can finally save for themselves” (as all their previous earnings used to be sent home for family expenses, including appliances, gadgets and phones for younger siblings!), she also quietly rejoiced: they finally did the responsible, though painful, thing.
Maricel had to bring the application home. So, beginning this week our kids will have to “earn” their weekly allowance!
No, it’s not through after school employment or entrepreneurship activities; they simply need to get their chores done to draw their “regular pay”.
You miss a couple of chores, there will be less to spend in the coming days. Getting beds done, toys and school bags all packed up, dogs weekly showered. “You need to stop training children to think that they receive their regular allowances just by…being themselves.”
As we shared this new HR (Home Resources) policy to our children, we saw the pain slowly manifest in their faces. Tough loves for patience.
People do not like change if it means abandoning routines they’ve gotten used to. And convenience and speed are key preferences today, especially among the young. But before the family meeting turned into an appetite-killing session for all, the young faces on the table lit up when the idea of bonuses was also introduced, where one can actually earn more apart from basic allowances for “special assignments.”
“Now you’re talking ,” I could see in my eldest son Donny’s eyes when the add-on option was introduced (he happens to be “richest” among all, a growing expert in the field of savings and entrepreneurship!). Carrot and Stick at its best.
“In the end,” Suze concluded, “it’s really not what we do with our money that matters; it’s what we do with our time, and ultimately, our lives.” Indeed, people’s lives are final bottom line. Let’s not inadvertently mix them up in our “cut and paste” way of living. People, Money, then Things, in that unchangeable order.

Being all things to your target audience

// February 26th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

Since the time of Hippocrates, it has been acknowledged that there are generally four types of personalities (or “humors” according to the philosopher himself) that people manifest at any given time.

I must stress those last four words again: “at any given time”, because it changes over time, depending on circumstances and need.

What are these four personalities, humors or “energies,” as coined by Insights Consulting based in the UK (I am currently completing a certification course to offer their programs in the region)?

They are Fiery Red, Sunshine Yellow, Cool Blue, and Earth Green.

As the words connote, they involve different approaches, responses, again, energies, that people exhibit when dealing with various situations.

Fiery Red energy is purposeful, competitive, and strong-willed.

Sunshine Yellow is marked by being sociable, enthusiastic and persuasive.

Responses that are cautions, deliberate and precise are typically Cool Blue.

And we can expect an “attitude” of patience, care and encouragement from those operating from the Earth Green mind-set.

While it is wrong to label a person as being “of one color,” (as it suggests the person cannot adjust and blend with others as necessary), major personalities have been known for “defining moments” with a particular personality or approach attached to their name.

If I may apply this now for a better appreciation of the four energies and their distinctiveness.

I’d say Fiery Red would match Steve Jobs’ leadership, Sunshine Yellow would fit Jackie Chan’s demeanor, Cool Blue would be a safe choice for Confucius, and Earth Green would be Rosa Rosal come to life!

Studies show that “at any given time,” people exhibit one preferred energy.

They have other energies within them – this, too, has been established – but there is one that dominates, that is “preferred” over the other and it is helpful to know it and to understand its nature.

A key insight is this: while we occasionally shift our approaches, there is one that tends to be our “default” energy, preference or personality over the course of our lives.

Would you know what is yours today?

Knowing self-being – is key to determining how one will act, over time – doing.

For example, if by observation, by listening to people who know you well, or by actually taking any one of those online tests, you discover you engage as a Fiery Red responder, it is of value to know that this energy can be dominating, risk-taking and actually demanding.

Furthermore, it pays to assess how best it can work with other energies displayed in a given situation.

So, you have a major sales presentation and you are aware that you engage most comfortable using the Cool Blue energy (cautious, deliberate and precise).

But the audience is filled with people who prefer the Sunshine yellow approach (sociable, enthusiastic and persuasive).

I can advice you this with all confidence: dump them with figures, Excel sheets and research data, and you’ll have half of them half asleep in no time!

So, know thyself, discover thy preferred energy today, and be aware of how to adjust thy approach given other personalities at play.

But, understand this too: each energy can be both a force for good or evil.

Just like any influence, it is the motive, intent or purpose for the energy’s use that determines its positive contribution… or negative impact.

Hence, my title, “two sides of a coin.” Mother Teresa and Jim Jones both had interpersonal skill and influence.

One moved a society and eventually, the whole world into practicing servant leadership; the other deceived a whole community to follow him to life eternal by collectively ingesting a cyanide-laced concoction leading to their gruesome death.

So, what is it like to exhibit those energies on a bad day?

Take a good look at the mirror, and ready yourself to “accept the brutal facts.”
Those who choose to engage with others using Fiery Red energy can be controlling, overbearing and intolerant.

Exhibit all that in a moment and you’ll have a textbook case of abuse!

Tag along with a colleague moving (and oozing) with a Sunshine Yellow energy – on a bad day – and watch with amusement as excitability, indiscreetness and hastiness define that person’s actions.

That amusement turns into annoyance if you were the recipient of that person’s stressful countenance!
Perhaps less annoying but equally “challenging” would be an experience with the Cool Blue energy on a less-than-ideal day.

For this person will be cold, insistent, even suspicious personified!

And finally, Earth green loyalists would have seen better days (and so would be their companions, at home and in workplace) when their reactions revolve around attitudes of complacency, hopelessness, almost parasitical.

An energy in itself is of no value; it will all depend on the motive of the entity that directs it.

Leadership Myths

// February 19th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

Everyone has been called to lead —Everyone can lead given one’s “influencing” ability.
And considering current conditions of our increasingly chaotic world, the need for positive change- through courageous and dynamic leadership- has never been more evident.
But many do not recognize their leadership potential, or mistakingly think that they have list their ability to move others because of some unfortunate mistake.
Others refuse to take the initiative “till the right time” or when “the opportunity presents itself.”
And there are those who decide “it just isn’t my core competence.”
May I invite “all the above” to reconsider?
It’s question of mind-set paradigms and myths that need to be shattered – and violently at that!
“As a man thinks, so is he.”
Let’s get work undone.
Myth # 1. “ Failure has ruled me out as a leader.”
Tell that to the average entrepreneur who fails five times before he wins, and wins big, in a business venture.
Or Thomas Edison who got the light bulb finally figured out after the 1,000th try.
This case should be closed with Steve Job’s own testimony: abandoned as a child, kicked out of university and fired as Apple’s CEO…before eventually being rehired to make it one of the world’s most dominant companies of all time.
Failure isn’t a person, so it isn’t you.
It’s an event we al occasionally experience. And if we learn from it, it becomes a stepping stone to our next success.
Myth # 2. “Aptitude just ain’t enough!”
High aptitude must be given its rightful place among the desired qualities of a competent professional (you wouldn’t choose- given available options – a surgeon who ”barely made the grade” for your child’s critical operation!)
But leadership potential, and evidently, performance, is not dependent on it. Remember the titans!
Precisely, the ability to lead, or to provide and influence direction to come together as a whole, are competences that do not necessarily require logical intelligence.
Howard Gardner’s “other intelligences” like spatial-visual, interpersonal, intrapersonal and even linguistic intelligences are equally important-if not superior to other factors-in getting leadership and management functions executed well.
It was Dr. Patch Adam’s “excessive happiness”-not his grades “among the highest in his class”- that accounted for his unprecedented contribution to and leadership in, the medical profession.
Myth # 3. “Level of position is too low in organization”
From what level of professional authority did Mother Teresa, Mahatma Gandhi, and Martin Luther King lead their respective communities with passion and results?
From the lowest, or from none at all.
Each didn’t need an “official leadership” function to spur collective action, eventually ballooning to national and global revolutions!
As I may have explained in the past, Dr. John Maxwell’s five levels of leadership acknowledges position (primarily “rights”-based) as one among we all operate from.
But it holds a special-almost permanent- level among all five: the bottom rung.
Being given a position of influence may help, but it is no guarantee that with it, (or the loss of it) leadership influence is significantly affected.
Myth # 4. “Strengths lie elsewhere…”
Albert Einstein was certainly a genius. And he must’ve had some idea he was “a cu above the rest.”
I doubt, however, that he had actually anticipated the impact of his influence on the world may past his lifetime.
Today, he continues to “lead” us as much of his work has served as a foundation for our continuous learning.
His leadership contribution was determined primarily by focusing on his strengths.
And here’s what amazes me: more and more I see, just by doing what they do best, individual professionals multiply their influence, and leadership, over time.
Without having to set up their own organizations, hire hundreds of personnel or undertake world-changing campaigns, they still end up “leading” because they have become recognized as experts in their chosen fields.
Millions of Twitter followers of Bianca Gonzales, KC Concepcion and Anne Curtis- experts in the world of advertising, marketing and branding- will testify to the power of these professionals’ influence, just by doing well what they already do.
And finally, Myth # 5. “Environmental challenges are just too daunting for leadership today.”
Rudy Giuliani will have to admit: in 911, he chanced upon the best opportunity to exercise and promote his leadership (is it a minimum of $100,000 for a keynote speech from him today?)
Authentic leaders know it is in times of crisis that they must step forward and be counted to serve (In fact, deceitful leaders will create a crisis just to prop themselves up and recover their lost opportunity! Wasn’t that what the movie Wag the Dog was all about?)
If you want to spot the leader from a crowd, throw them a problem and see who step forward and proposes a solution.
Change your mind and answer the call to lead.
Not a few of those around you are depending on it.

Learning from exemplars

// February 12th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

Was that a mid 80s song that went “I just can’t get enough?!”

Well, six weeks into 2012 and I just can’t get enough…of people who continually pour themselves out, so that others may be filled, to the brim, and spilling over!

Every day experiences are opportunities to draw learning and inspiration from others. If we only care to look and listen, we are constantly being invited to be filled – for our own joy and pleasure, and for the many others we were purposed to serve, bless, and pour our lives into.

In preparation for a major speech the other day, I re-read (ok, browsed through!) the book of Dr. Les Parrot, 3 Seconds (The Power of Thinking Twice). One illustration that immediately encouraged and “filled me” me was that of an experiment conducted by researchers at the University of Berkeley on the value of Stress! (Yup, you heard that right!) They introduced an amoeba into a carefully controlled and “stress-free” environment: the right amount of moisture and light, and adequate nutrition so the amoeba didn’t need anything else to survive.

Well, the amazing results of the “perfect home?” The amoeba died. Lesson to learn: thank God for the daily challenges and “stresses” of life! A stress-free life…kills!

Trust me, that was a major boost I needed as I prepared that plenary message for over a thousand Metrobankers in their national conference Friday afternoon. But as I allowed myself to be freely poured into from the outside (yes, it is a choice), I was able to effectively pour out to my audience.

I’d like to acknowledge five individuals who have poured into me the past six weeks of the this year as guests to my weekly radio-tv program Magbago Tayo (Let us Change) over TV5.

Candy Pangilinan. Comedienne. Mother. Entrepreneur. Considered a veteran having been in the industry for almost 20 years – and still eliciting lots of laughs (she did in my studio) – my personal goal was to discover the key to her success, and perhaps to many in the same field. My “one take away” of all the many take aways? Acknowledge all – good, bad and ugly – and you’ll be funny! And as you acknowledge all, don’t do it with expectation from others; do it to free yourself, to be unburdened, and to lighten up. Instantly, you lift the majority, who are down!

Jim Paredes. Singer. Writer. Activist. “Whatever happens to you, choose to accept it (apparently many don’t), and you will amazed at what you can do it with it.” He adds: “Everything is material, Anthony. Pain is an ingredient to a writer’s creativity.” He shared his project to randomly choose eight people from the multitude of Twitter followers who responded to his personal invitation to have dinner in his home (Mind you, this guy’s got a quarter of a million followers or tweeps!) A dinner just to connect, tell stories, learn from each other. They all have become good friends.

Eric and Donita-Rose Villarama. May I just declare this? These guys are one of the most generous couples in the planet! In time, in resources, in love. I noticed a common practice in strong young marriages of today, with Eric and Donita among them: the choice to see couple-mentors for a period of time before starting their own journey, and continuing to be accountable to a select few they value most. It’s easier to “stay above the ground,” amidst a challenging society when you “hitch your wagon to a star.” Right, Chinkee? (to Chinkee Tan, Chink Positive host and best selling author, another practitioner of marriage accountability with lifetime partner Nove Tan)

Edru Abraham. Professor. Conductor. Filipino Culture “Enthusiast.” I stood 10 feet taller as a Filipino and as an Asian after guesting Edru twice this year, for there was just too much breadth and depth on the subject at hand. What was fascinating though was that this medium was the message! It wasn’t a radio interview, it was a performance! Speaking, “acting,” playing his instruments (we needed SUVs to get them on studio!), it was an “experience” of Filipino culture – contemporary at that – at its best! “Sometimes, it’s not good to remain who you are…if who you are has not been your authentic self.” Magpakatotoo tayo! (Lets get real!) Bravo Maestro!

Francis Kong. Author. Speaker. Brother in Christ. Most will identify a business or financial management principle in acknowledging FJK; I will honor what I saw that day As he sat side by side in our studio with wife Lilia: a man who elevates his woman, and a woman who inspires (and computes for) her man. I’m glad I have an open line with Francis as he is also my friend and business partner; he has way too much in him for me to partake in one, two or even a number of guestings.

Blessed are these people whose lives overflow.

On those bad days

// February 5th, 2012 // No Comments » // Articles

NOT ALL days can be good nor productive. There will be days – periods or even seasons – when things don’t make much sense and seem less like they’re “falling into place,” and more like “falling apart!”

What to do when we find ourselves in such circumstances?

More and more, I realize that one of the best responses is to anticipate they will come. And when they do, to continue living out our days with the same principles and practices that govern us when times are good, you are committed to excellence in a time of expansion? Continue to do so in times of crisis. Best time to build customer loyalty! Like a food company’s decision to “send in the trucks” for continuous product distribution during the Mt. Pinatubo eruption that had most competitors, “scampering away.” A masterstroke- based on the form’s core values, mind you – that it’s customers have never forgotten and for which the company has been well rewarded by them, over time.

Then, there’s a need to explore and expand our “standards for living.”

To practice for both “normal” and extraordinary” moments, go for Blue Ocean Strategy as you look into your company’s sustainability. Why not drop your regular sales meeting today and pick up a quick lesson or two on Guerilla Marketing to immediately respond to a pressing need? Private: “General, the enemy is shooting at us!” General: “That’s what they’re supposed to do soldier, now fight back!”

I recently received a message from a manager of mine urgently asking for a whole week off after an argument with a co-staff member. I wasn’t “kind enough” to grant his “urgent plea” without discussing the issue further, but I appreciated what I also believe is crucial in surviving challenging situations: letting key people – the significant others- know not all is well so they are able to consider this in their own plans and programs. While not everyone was made aware of the details of Steve Job’s health condition the past years, we all had an idea of his “decreased capacity to steer the ship.” And now we know, depending on level of engagement, how Jobs let in the world on the state of his illness, allowing his organization and customers to prepare, accept, and even “hail” the manner by which he “moved on.”

C’mon, a simple call or text to your top three managers informing them of a 30-minute delay in your breakfast meeting because of a “domestic matter” (an argument with your spouse) will do wonders in keeping your “integrity” intact. Actually, it’s the least you can do out of respect.

Practice triage. In times of war, specifically after a fierce battle with many wounded, doctors classify patients into three (hence, tri-age, get it?): those who need to be treated immediately or will die, those who need treatment but will live even without it, and those who will die regardless of treatment applied. The priority becomes obvious with a quick but honest cost-benefit analysis. Life isn’t always about “balance;” sometimes it’s a simple trade-off. And we pray we sleep a little better those nights confident the benefits derived from putting one thing first outweighs the consequences of the others we put next, or last.

Timeless writer-singer Jim Paredes of the legendary APO hiking society was my guest in Saturday’s Magbago tayo (Let us Change) radio-cable show. When I asked him about his struggles, he replied without thinking twice: “Anthony, pain is an ingredient to an artist’s creativity.” The apostle Paul declares that, with faith in a loving all-powerful Father, “all things work for the good, the bad, and the ugly.

Nothing establishes empathy more than actually being – not just “imagining to be” – in someone else’s situation and going through the same experiences. We’ve heard it said by new young mothers: “Now I know how my mom actually felt!” Now, every mother’s favorite: “I’m so sorry mom! And thank you for everything!”

After finishing second from the bottom in the last Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) conference, the Alaska Aces had this as a clear “mandate” from franchise owner Fred Uytengsu (shared at a team building program we ran for the team two weeks ago): “I hate losing! And I hope you all have sleepless nights like I do when we lose! But even if I want to win our 13th championship, and move closer to becoming the winningest team in PBA history, I will not win at all costs. We will strive to win but we will also commit to preserve our values of excellence, honesty and integrity. I want to win the 13th, but not just the 13th by sacrificing the culture we’ve built through the years. I want the 13th and also the 14th, the 15th and the 16th …as we build a winning team with sustainability.”

Things can be bad, but I can remain with the good. It is in darkness that light manifests itself best.