If you want to make a difference step outside of the echo chamber
Bottom Line: One of my all-time favorite radio execs had a saying that resonated with me more than any other I’ve heard over the years. Success to significance. The meaning was this. They’re no shortage of small “wins” in life. A decent day at work might be one of them for example. Most people stop once they get there. His point was that simply getting the job done isn’t success. I agree. That’s just getting by. I don’t do this because I’m picking up a paycheck or am trying to get by. I’ve always done this because I’m passionate about the content and communicating information that can make a difference. Generally, information that’s helpful, useful and hopefully repeatable that you don’t get anywhere else. I’m blessed to have the opportunity to reach you, and as I’ve mentioned this week, it’s a team effort. Without you listening and patronizing sponsors they’ll take me off the air quickly. Now about a common question I’m asked...
You have a platform. How can I make a difference?
First, to my initial point. By you listening, reading and sharing my work, you’re making a difference. Please know that – even when I’m doing national work – it’s because of you. Second. I’ll use a church analogy for a moment. If you go to church, you’re likely to find that most people believe as you do about your faith. Being there can help inform you, motivate you, energize you – all important things but if you really want to have a broader impact with your beliefs, you have to put them into action outside of church. This is true of many political organizations as well. It’s fun to be around energized, motivated people but are you going to win over new hearts and minds in those forums? The point is this.
If you want to make a difference bring information to those open to receiving it. Engage with your local governments and let them know you’re minding the store. Run for office if you’ve thought about doing it and are able to. Even if It's your HOA. Remember the government closest to you is the one that often has the biggest impact on your day-to-day life. Success to significance doesn’t happen by staying in your comfort zone. Winning hearts and minds and making a difference in your community is success to significance.