I learned another lesson from Jack Welch. It was in 1998, and at that time we were one of the most valuable companies in the world. I said, “Jack, what does it take to have a great company?” And he said, “It takes major setbacks and overcoming those.”
I hesitated for a minute, and I said, “Well, we did that in ’93 and then we did it again in ’97 with the Asian financial crisis.” And he said, “No, John. I mean a near-death experience.” I didn’t understand exactly what he meant.
Then, in 2001, we had a near-death experience. We went from the most valuable company in the world to a company where they questioned the leadership. And in 2003, he called me up and said, “John, you now have a great company.” ...John Chambers, CEO and Chairman of the Board for Cisco Systems in a recent interview with Adam Bryant of the NY Times Corner Office blog.
So. Back to the question. Have you had your near-death experience? It's a rite of passage for great brands (and people) it seems. Not mandatory, of course. But, there's something about facing imminent extinction that hones ones focus on our strengths and commitment to survival. These can come in little moments, like I have to get this post published. I have a deadline...Or, they can come in great big ones like Mr. Chambers describes.
Do you wait for yours?
Do you reach out for them by setting audacious and grand goals for ourselves, getting outside your comfort zones and leading others outside of theirs?
My sense is that we have no choice other than how we respond when they arrive. What do you think?
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