Top 5 Thoughts
July 14th, 2008 Posted in General, LifeThis past week I’ve been in Maine with my wife and kids. It’s our first time in this beautiful state and the experience has inspired a number of ideas and thoughts about business, life and family travel. I’ve been jotting them down on my Blackberry. Here are my top 5 so far:
1. Don’t Give Up - Because of a flight delay we only had 5 minutes to make our connecting flight in the Philadelphia airport to Portland, Maine. Everyone said we would miss it. Picture me, my wife and two kids ages 10 and 8 sprinting through the airport. Oh yeah, we also had to take a shuttle bus to the terminal! We asked the woman working the shuttle station to call the gate and tell them we were coming. She called and then said, “the plane is leaving… you won’t make it.” When our shuttle arrived we sprinted again to the gate. Lucky for us, our friend Jane Rollingson, who was also going to Maine, was able to make it to the plane before us. She had to check her luggage at the gate (small plane) and so this stopped the plane from leaving. When we arrived there was a big window where we could see the pilots and they could see us. The gate door was shut and the jetway was pulled back. We waved to the US Airways pilots and they waved back. A few tension filled minutes later as sweat poured down our faces they gave us a thumbs up sign and we were allowed to board the plane. Later I found out the other flights to Maine were all booked. Miraculously our luggage also made it in time. My kids learned a valuable lesson… Keep running and never give up!
2. A Lemonade Stand Can Tell You A Lot About the Economy - In the village of Kennebunkport the girl working the stand said last year at this time she was selling 300 lemonades per shift. Today she sold just 10. She said the cost of gas is really hurting tourism.
3. You Catch More Fish Being Positive - My son loves fishing. Me, I love fishing for people but know nothing about catching fish. So we went fishing with a fisherman named Steve Brettell, who it turns out was also a positive energy expert. He told us, if you are positive you will catch more fish. He notices this all the time. My kids who were being negative changed their attitude and it worked. We caught a lot of fish.
4. Don’t Leave Fish to Find Fish - Steve told us these wise words that apply to more than fishing. If you have something good make the most of it.
5. People, Not Views, Make the Difference - We stayed at a hotel in Kennebunkport for a few days. It was a wonderful hotel that had an amazing view of the ocean. Unfortunately we only encountered several people on the staff who shared positive energy. We loved the hotel but didn’t leave there with a great feeling. We thought about how much better the experience could have been if the staff were trained to be as nice as the view. Hotels need to focus as much on their people as they do their beauty and landscaping. People make the difference.
Join the conversation and share your comments on these 5 thoughts here.
Stay Positive!
-Jon
20 Responses to “Top 5 Thoughts”
By Debbie F. on Jul 14, 2008
I also just returned from vacation this past week and have just finished reading “The Energy Bus” about 3 weeks ago. As a family returning from vacation we had the opportunity to ask the hotel where a good place to eat dinner was and a suggestion was made for “Charlestons”, we were in Norman Oklahoma. The whole experience of the restaurant was extraordinary. They asked if we had ever eaten there before, and then explained the menu in detail and how everything would work. What really made the meal was the manager came to our table and said he had heard we had never been there before and gave us tickets for two free appetizers. He visited with us and told us where the other restaurants were in the country and to use the tickets wherever we were.
I think what I have discovered after reading, changing my thoughts and attitudes is, how the people around me have responded to the change. And even when things do not go “right” it’s much easier to deal with the situations.
By Ann on Jul 14, 2008
Maine is in fact a beautiful state . Cold but beautiful but as seems to be the norm these days wherever we go we meet some folks who prefer to be negative. I think that these persons need to know that we all have in our lives somethings which we would prefer not to have and it is up to us to focus on the things we have. Personally I find that focussing on those things we want in our life keep us happy in spirit and that spirit transcends to those with whom we com in contact which in turn attracts more positives in our lives,
By Dana's Positive Energy Drawings on Jul 14, 2008
I always love the way you interweave the everyday stories of your life with the work that you do. You repeatedly show that no matter what life is handing you, it’s the way you deal with it that matters. When you can keep your heart open in any situation, you’ve found real joy.
By Jill on Jul 14, 2008
Kennebunkport??? That is sad, I am from Maine, and normally every one is nice in that state. I hope you left a positive impact.
By Karyl on Jul 14, 2008
Just staying positive will have positive effects. Many years ago (over 20), two coworkers and I were trying to catch a flight out of San Francisco. There was a chemical spill on the bridge so traffic was slow. We arrived at the airport, checked in and made it to the gate as the plane was pushing back. Since we had arrived late we had gotten the last three seats at the very back of the plane, you know the ones that the seats don’t recline so it wasn’t going to be the most comfortable flight. We went back to the counter to check on other flights. There was one in about 3 hours. We were able to get seats on that flight, in fact were upgraded to first class with more legroom than I have ever had. We took a taxi to a nice restaurant had a great meal and back to the airport in time to catch part of the 49′er football game. Our flight was terrific and we arrived refreshed and relaxed. Keeping a positive attitude and rolling with what life has to offer is often better then becoming distraught and angry. I will never forget that flight or the lesson I realized that day.
By Christina on Jul 14, 2008
This is my first blog attempt so here goes. At my last job (which I was recently laid off from)the Energy Bus was required reading for all mangers, however it was not practiced by upper management leaving everyone driving in their own directions, yet I was not to give up. I new the principles were true and in leaving the company and starting my own storm water training business I would be successful following those principles. Number one on today’s top 5 thoughts “Don’t Give Up” is especially applicable for me as I go forth creating a positive environment for my company and I to grow in. Thanks to you Jon for your dedication to a positive attitude, a thankful spirit, and for giving direction to one’s life that really works.
By Kevin Eikenberry on Jul 14, 2008
Jon- This is a great post with wonderful lessons for us as parents, leaders and people! Thanks so much for sharing it with us. I hope your vacation has been wonderful - it sounds like it!
By Mary Angela on Jul 14, 2008
Dear Jon
Thank you for sharing your postive experiences. When we want to see a change it starts with ourselves. Milwaukee for 11 days has Summerfest which on Lake Michigan,music, food, and lots of fun. As a florist I want to promote my business and gave away over 12,000 carnations. What a job people need to know why and what they needed to do. Some parents were the worst !!! Some people were down right rude about it. I just wanted people to be happy and SMILE MKany blessings for your mission and purpose in Life
THank you
By Hooman on Jul 14, 2008
My mom signed me up for your newsletter I think 2 years ago, although it seems this blog only goes back 1 year. In any case, I still enjoy reading your newsletter. I’ve also bought your book and it’s great. Overall, I really like your attitude on life. Tip #5 in this article is particularly interesting from a business standpoint. Seems like an opportunity for someone to take that up and make something of it. Anyway, keep up the awesome work! I’m sure even though not everyone may say it (I hadn’t written anything to you in the 2 years of receiving your newsletters) - but I’m sure there are a lot of people you’re reaching out to with just your simple newsletters, you’re changing lives…keep it up, and thank you again!
By Geneseograd on Jul 14, 2008
Maine is a beautiful getaway place. Our family of 4, enjoyed a week in Scarborough, near Portland a couple of years ago. We stayed in a very tiny 2 bedroom cottage near the water. The owner and everyone we met was nice to us which made the trip even more memorable. The people you come across, no matter where you are or what you are doing, make all of the difference. We all would love to go back someday. Thanks for the picture. Keep up the positive energy!
By Tina on Jul 15, 2008
I absolutely agree with number 5: People, Not Views, Make the Difference. My fiance and I spent a few days at the Atlantis resort (Paradise Island, Bahamas) and although the views were extraordinarily beautiful, one of the most impressive aspects of the resort was the friendliness of the staff. It didn’t matter which staff member we saw or even what time of day (or night) it was, we were always greeted and asked how we were enjoying the day, our stay or the weather. It was so much more friendly than anywhere I’ve ever been in the U.S.
By Dave Sterritt on Jul 16, 2008
I saw your post on Jim Estill’s blog (jimestill.com) and had to take a look at what you’re talking about. I find that being positive really comes naturally for me so I’m lucky. A byproduct of my positivity is creating positive energy. That positive energy influences others and together we’re able to create a positive environment.
You have power to influence others - make it positive!
http://www.forklifttips.wordpress.com
By Rocco Catucci on Jul 16, 2008
A very smart man once told me that “No one wants to hear about the labor pains, they only want to see the baby…” it’s our positive speech and attitude that motivates people around us to want more, to see more, to have more and do more. Sounds like the people you met wanted to tell you all about the pain but neglected to tell you about the beauty. All to often the negative influences of other people tend to hit and hang on to us, unless we can see it coming, and duck.
By Reggie on Jul 18, 2008
The first point is so right.
Went to FL for a funeral, 6 am flight with a plan to return the same day since it was my high school reunion and I headed up the planning committee. Made the funeral, had to go three counties for the burial. By the time I got to the burial site, the driver told me, “you’ll never make that flight today!” I told him I “had to”!. We turned around right then and drove crazily back to the airport 3 counties away. Got to the airport and there I was behind every line(security) and had I believed it, I would not have made it. I apologized to everybody nicely but asked if they would let me thru, “I have to catch a plane, I have no bags and I have to go home today!” They let me thru. When I finally got to the gate I was told, “I’m sorry, you’ve missed your flight, the plane has left already!” I was so hurt but knew I had to leave FL that day. I went back and asked, “are you sure!” Yes, ma’m the plane is gone. I said, it can’t be, I’ve got to be on it. Soon, there was a call and the agent was informed, “the plane did not take off–they couldn’t leave!” The agent and I looked at each other in amazement and I ran thru and got on the plane sweating and frantic looking! Everyone was seated, buckled up and looked at me as though to say, “they held up this plane for her???” Surely they did! I was in the last seat in the very back. I knew they couldn’t leave without me! I knew God was with me in all that!
It’s all in the belief system and the positive attitude.
By Corrie Ann on Jul 20, 2008
Just returned from a fishing trip at Mammoth and the positive thinking really works. My mom caught 13 fish - she also caught the two largest, and she hasn’t fished in over 45 years! It was a great trip this year.
By Jennifer on Jul 21, 2008
John,
I loved your top ten positive thoughts. I would like to add my two cents to your bike ride analgy. So true, as we go up and down through life and business. For the last 9 months I have been riding my bike in 1st gear up a 10% grade mountain and see a light at the horizon. But as I was thinking about the next hill coming up or the ride down and how I should enjoy it. I feel inclined to say that I shouldnt just sit back and coast down. If I continue to work hard at pro active goals that my next mountain might turn out to be just a hill. Yes, we should enjoy our successes. The lemonade stand has me nervous and feel on edge with the security of my job and likewise my family as a result of my job. I say look to the mountain that lies ahead. While your smiling your way down think about how you will climb it before you get to it. I believe it will be just a hill.
By Jennifer on Jul 21, 2008
John,
I loved your top ten positive thoughts. I would like to add my two cents to your bike ride analagy. So true, as we go up and down through life and business. For the last 9 months I have been riding my bike in 1st gear up a 10% grade mountain and see a light at the horizon. But as I was thinking about the next hill coming up or the ride down and how I should enjoy it. I feel inclined to say that I shouldnt just sit back and coast down. If I continue to work hard at pro active goals that my next mountain might turn out to be just a hill. Yes, we should enjoy our successes. The lemonade stand has me nervous and feel on edge with the security of my job and likewise my family as a result of my job. I say look to the mountain that lies ahead. While your smiling your way down think about how you will climb it before you get to it. I believe it will be just a hill.
By trish garron on Jul 26, 2008
hi Gordon Family.. looks like your trip was a great experience and will be a fantastic memory for all of you….I have worked in hotels and have actually left the job because of the lack of “positive training” as I like to refer to it….employees forget that the people they are serving are only there temporarily and need to leave with a happy memory,, I also believe if the hospitality industry gave their employees more incentive(better pay) you cannot live very well on the salary…. as well as better training on customer “sincere service” everyone would enjoy the experience and there would not be so much turnover in the industry…..
I am also in Maine now and have been enjoying its beauty… happy to hear your family can enjoy it together… much happiness to you all… Thank you for sharing your spirit…
Trish Garron
By John on Jul 28, 2008
Hello John,
Thank you for your words of encouragement to many, and for being able to see the positive in everything and sharing that ability with others.
I’m a fisheries biologist, and have spent some time in Maine . . . so here goes! Your fish-related comments are right on–tournament pros will tell you that a positive attitude is a must, for winning and for catching fish. And yes, fish do stick together, so you shouldn’t (usually) leave fish to find fish.
But sometimes, just one fish can make all the difference. I once travelled to a small town two hours away, rode the mountain bus for an hour, and then hiked for another three hours, spent the night in a tent, and then hiked another two, up to ten thousand feet and back down, to fish a certain lake. I fished for over four hours, and only caught one fish that day. But it was a four-and-a-half pound rainbow trout. It took me five minutes to land him on wispy four-pound line, but I did. I know there are bigger trout out there, but even if I happen to catch one, I’ll never remember it the way I remember this one. People can also make that difference, and I hope to be that–and I hope I’ve been that–to another.
By Nici on Nov 6, 2008
Hi . . . posted 11-5-08
(I feel very encouraged by the election of our next president; Barack Obama, whom I perceive to be a positive-minded leader !!!)
Just had to include that comment because it’s fresh and wonderful news today !
Your 5 Thoughts are just great; concise to read and serve to prime my “pump” in my
GOOD ENERGY WELL. Thank you, brother ! Not sure if i have a favorite, but feel that the “Don’t leave fish to find fish” topic is the one i most needed to see today. As with all valuable suggestions, this one is timeless. Just saw your website this AM about 4:00, and am so thankful. I get the Guideposts online newsletter and linked to yours that way. Did you ever see Norman Vincent Peale speak, in person, or otherwise? In 1970, a Methodist Youth Fellowship trip to N Y City (from Iowa), which i joined, visited the Marble Collegiate Church and heard Dr. Peale speak.
Unfortunately, my memory has not retained the subject matter of his talk, and I didn’t
really know just how far the man’s influence spread @ that time, either, but I was familiar with his name. It has quite a ring to it; doesnt’t it ?? About 25 years ago, Dr. Peale got “real” for me when I met my late husband, George, and began an 8 + year relationship with George, and with POSITIVE THINKING, which he had enthusiastically embraced while raising 3 kids on his own. Nowadays those years stand me in good stead, just so long as i remember to MAKE A POINT of “keeping the faith”.
Thanks again, Jon !
Nici in Northern Calif.
November 2008