Does Your Business or Idea Make Meaning?
I really enjoy writing this blog for one reason, to INSPIRE the people that read it. That’s my passion. All of my posts may not be inspirational per say, but for the most part, I really try to add an element of meaning to everything I do. Guy Kawasaki, founder and Managing Director of Garage Technology Ventures, believes that those companies who set out to make a positive change in the world are the companies that will ultimately be the most successful. I happen to agree with Guy on this point. According to Guy, “meaning is not about money, power or prestige. It’s not even about creating a fun place to work. Among the meanings of “meaning” are to:
- Make the world a better place.
- Increase the quality of life.
- Right a terrible wrong.
- Prevent the end of something good.
One of my favorite quotes comes from an unknown source, “the essence of intelligence is skill in extracting meaning from everyday experience.” I have always thought that a successful person is someone who has meaning and purpose, and every day touches someone’s life in a positive way–whether to make them laugh or learn or both at once!
From a business perspective, it is important to reach out and connect with customers and employees in a way that is meaningful… in a way that matters to them… does your business or idea make meaning, but what IS IT that people find meaningful?
Here are a few questions you should ask yourself to determine what is meaningful?
- How does your service or product improve the lives of others?
- How do you give back to your community?
- How have you helped others reach their dreams?
- What can we do as a community to make meaning?
- How have you inspired creative collaboration?
I am not arguing that companies are in a position to create meaning in people’s lives rather they are in a position to create meaningful experiences. Meaning is in the eye of the beholder. The more you can create peak experiences – whether it’s coming face-to-face with an appreciative customer or building a sense of deep community amongst your employees – the more likely you will see the meaning in what you and your company does. In business, making meaning is to observe, define and describe meaningful customer experiences.
So, why not start by doing something worthwhile, because you want to contribute and make a difference? There really is nothing stopping you from making meaning in your life, your business or your community.
What do you think about this post?
Is this just more gobbledegook or do you agree with me? If you enjoyed it let me know. (Thanks to Guy Kawasaki for inspiring this article.)
Respectfully,
Rob
