Posts filed in:Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Leadership

Thoughts on Leadership: Mastering Influence – The Art of Effective Leadership

By Gino Blefari

This week my travels found me starting Monday in my home office, conducting WIG calls with our CEO’s. On Tuesday, I joined the early morning Berkshire Hathaway Energy call, then hopped on a flight to Dallas, Texas. On Wednesday, I will be with Christy Budnick, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and our team at Corporate Magic for our upcoming Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Sales Convention Show Review.

My desire for personal growth and contribution to the field of leadership is my inspiration for this week’s blog.

Read more: Thoughts on Leadership: Mastering Influence – The Art of Effective Leadership

Influence is an intricate dance of understanding, empathy, and strategic maneuvering. It’s not about wielding power or manipulating situations for personal gain; rather, it’s about aligning diverse interests toward a common goal, fostering collaboration, and inspiring others to exceed their everyday efforts. True influence transcends authority and communication; it’s about achieving outcomes that benefit everyone involved, not just oneself.

So, what exactly is influence, and how does it differ from leadership? Influence is the art of positively mobilizing oneself and others to affect interactions, tasks, relationships, communities, or groups. It’s about producing outcomes beneficial to all without resorting to coercion or manipulation.

On the other hand, leadership is a form of social influence that inspires people to surpass ordinary efforts, envisioning a new reality and fostering better and faster achievements. While leadership often takes the spotlight, influence, with its subtlety, plays a crucial role, even if behind the scenes.

It’s essential to distinguish influence from manipulation. Influence involves aligning diverse interests to serve a common purpose, while manipulation is self-serving and often harmful to others. Positive influence entails effective communication, empathy, and mutual respect, creating scenarios where everyone’s needs are considered and addressed. Manipulation, on the other hand, disregards others’ well-being for personal gain, leading to detrimental effects on trust and integrity.

Influence isn’t just about grand gestures or momentous occasions; it’s about the small, courageous steps we take, creating ripples of hope that eventually build potent currents of change. It involves understanding pressure points in various contexts, setting both task and relationship objectives simultaneously, and learning to influence in the moment, on the go.

However, being influential isn’t without its challenges. Leaders often face obstacles such as aligning divergent interests, balancing short-term and long-term priorities, setting and managing performance expectations, addressing performance shortfalls, and influencing market perception. These challenges require strategic planning, adaptability, and a deep understanding of the complex dynamics at play.

To become a master of influence, one must follow a fourfold path:

  1. Be strategically deliberate.
  2. Understand pressure points in context.
  3. Set task and relationship objectives simultaneously.
  4. Learn to influence in the moment, on the go.

By honing these skills and navigating the inherent challenges, leaders can inspire others, foster collaboration, and achieve lasting success.

So, what’s the message? Influence is a subtle yet mighty force in effective leadership. It involves aligning diverse interests, fostering collaboration, and inspiring others to achieve common goals. By understanding its intricacies and overcoming its challenges, leaders can wield influence to create positive change and achieve lasting success for themselves and their organizations.

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Thoughts on Leadership: How Great Leaders Build Unstoppable Teams

Gino Blefari

In today’s fast-paced business landscape, the importance of great leadership in fostering unstoppable teams cannot be overstated. As someone deeply passionate about effective leadership and team dynamics, I’ve come to realize that successful teams are built on a foundation of community, careful recruitment, and a mindset that prioritizes potential over experience.

  1. Community Matters: Building a dynamic community within your organization is not just about team building exercises or corporate culture. It’s about fostering a sense of psychological ownership among team members, where they feel personally invested in the success of the organization or cause. This level of investment drives productivity, problem-solving, and loyalty. By seeing the potential in entire communities and nurturing ongoing dialogue and development, organizations can thrive beyond expectations.

  2. The High Cost of Bad Hires: I’ve gleaned invaluable wisdom from esteemed CEOs and mentors, among them Jack Welch, renowned for his tenure at GE. One of his enduring mantras, ‘Hire slow, fire fast,’ resonates deeply with me. Another principle I’ve adopted from Welch is what he aptly termed the ‘5, 10, 8 method.’ This approach entails hiring five employees, maximizing their productivity as if they were ten, yet compensating them as if they were eight. Embracing these philosophies not only underscores the importance of meticulous hiring but also emphasizes efficiency and resource optimization within the team.

  3. Want Great Teams? Be a Great Teammate: Effective team building starts with leadership being exemplary teammates themselves. It’s about investing in potential, being patient, and fostering a culture of open communication and mutual respect. Leaders must take the time to understand the needs and motivations of their team members, providing support and guidance to help them thrive.

  4. The Give and Take of Recruiting: Recruitment must be seamlessly integrated into the fabric of the company’s growth strategy, an ongoing endeavor rather than a sporadic event. By providing value to prospective candidates through initiatives like workshops and skill-sharing opportunities, organizations can effectively pinpoint individuals whose values align with the company’s ethos and demonstrate the potential to make significant contributions to the team. Reflecting on my experience building Intero, I implemented a practice dubbed ‘The Intero Story,’ where every employee and agent underwent a comprehensive session delivered by me, delving into Intero’s vision and values. This served as a litmus test for alignment – a core covenant where individuals were either fully committed or not, leaving no room for ambiguity.

  5. Hire for Potential, Not Experience: Rethinking recruitment to focus on potential rather than just experience can transform team dynamics. By viewing candidates as a set of potentials and providing opportunities for growth and development, organizations can unlock hidden talents and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Leaders relentlessly upgrade their team, using every encounter as an opportunity to evaluate, coach, and build self-confidence.

So, what’s the message? Building unstoppable teams requires valuing potential over experience, fostering community, and meticulous recruitment. This approach empowers every team member to contribute their best, driving the organization to new heights. Great teams aren’t formed overnight but nurtured through ongoing investment and dedication from leaders who understand the power of community and the limitless potential of their team members. In the evolving business landscape, this holistic strategy ensures teams that are truly unstoppable.

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    Thoughts on Leadership: Honoring Black History Month

    By Gino Blefari

    This week my travels find me at home. The dust has settled from the heart-wrenching 49ers loss in the Super Bowl. Despite the disappointment, I couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride in our 49ers season. From the intensity of the Super Bowl to the significance of Black History Month, February is a month filled with reflection, celebration, and recognition of both triumphs and struggles.

    As February 2024 marks Black History Month, it’s a time to reflect on the profound contributions and enduring legacy of Black leaders throughout history. From civil rights activists to trailblazing entrepreneurs, Black individuals have shaped our world and inspired generations with their resilience, courage, and visionary leadership. In honor of Black History Month, let’s explore 10 invaluable leadership lessons learned from the rich tapestry of Black history.

    1. Resilience in the Face of Adversity:
    Black history is a testament to the power of resilience in overcoming adversity. From the horrors of slavery to the struggles for civil rights, Black leaders have exhibited unwavering resilience in the face of immense challenges. Leaders can learn from this resilience by understanding that setbacks are temporary, and true strength lies in perseverance and determination.

    2. Courage to Challenge Injustice:
    Throughout history, Black leaders have demonstrated remarkable courage in challenging injustice and fighting for equality. From Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat to Martin Luther King Jr. leading the Civil Rights Movement, these leaders inspire us to confront injustice with courage and conviction. As leaders, it’s essential to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

    3. Visionary Leadership:
    Black history is replete with visionary leaders who have shaped the course of history through their bold ideas and transformative leadership. Leaders like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, and Malcolm X envisioned a world free from oppression and inequality, inspiring others to join their cause. As leaders, it’s crucial to cultivate a visionary mindset and inspire others with a compelling vision for the future.

    4. Empowering Others Through Education:
    Education has been a cornerstone of empowerment in Black history, with leaders like Booker T. Washington and W.E.B. Du Bois advocating for access to knowledge and learning. These leaders understood the transformative power of education in empowering individuals and communities. As leaders, it’s essential to prioritize education and create opportunities for continuous learning and growth among team members.

    5. Collaboration and Community Building:
    Black history is a testament to the importance of collaboration and community building in driving social change. From the Underground Railroad to the Montgomery Bus Boycott, Black leaders have mobilized communities to work together towards common goals. Leaders can learn from this by fostering a collaborative culture within their teams and leveraging the collective strength of diverse perspectives.

    6. Persistence in Pursuit of Excellence:
    Black history is characterized by stories of persistence and determination in the pursuit of excellence. Leaders like Madame C.J. Walker and Oprah Winfrey overcame countless obstacles to achieve success, inspiring others with their resilience and tenacity. As leaders, it’s essential to persevere in the face of challenges and maintain a relentless focus on achieving excellence.

    7. Advocacy for Diversity and Inclusion:
    Diversity and inclusion have been central themes in Black history, with leaders advocating for equality and representation across all sectors of society. From the civil rights movement to contemporary activism, Black leaders have championed diversity and inclusion as essential pillars of social progress. Leaders can learn from this by fostering diverse and inclusive environments within their organizations, where every individual feels valued and respected.

    8. Leading with Empathy and Compassion:
    Black history teaches us the importance of leading with empathy and compassion towards others. Leaders like Nelson Mandela and Michelle Obama exemplify this by showing empathy and understanding towards those they lead. As leaders, it’s crucial to cultivate empathy and compassion in our interactions with team members, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

    9. Harnessing the Power of Resilient Leadership:
    Black history is filled with examples of resilient leadership, where leaders have persevered in the face of adversity to achieve remarkable success. Leaders like Barack Obama and Shirley Chisholm overcame numerous obstacles to break barriers and pave the way for future generations. As leaders, it’s essential to embrace resilient leadership by remaining steadfast in our commitment to our goals, even in the face of setbacks.

    10. Inspiring Hope and Empowerment:
    Above all, Black history teaches us the power of leadership in inspiring hope and empowerment among others. Leaders like Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King Jr. inspired millions with their vision of a better world, sparking movements for change that continue to resonate today. As leaders, it’s crucial to inspire hope and empowerment among those we lead, fostering a sense of purpose and optimism for the future.

    So what’s the message?

    As we celebrate Black History Month, let us honor the legacy of Black leaders who have paved the way for progress and social change. By embracing the invaluable leadership lessons learned from Black history, we can become more effective and compassionate leaders, driving positive change in our organizations and communities.

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    Thoughts on Leadership: The Transformative Power of Conferences

    By Gino Blefari

    This week my travels find me at home in northern California. As I sit in my office this week, reflecting on the past conferences I’ve attended throughout my career and the upcoming Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Sales Convention in March, I’m struck by the profound impact that conferences have had on my professional journey. These gatherings, spanning diverse industries, have been instrumental in shaping my perspective on business and leadership. Today, I’m eager to share with you the tremendous value that attending conferences holds—a practice that has not only enriched my career but also broadened my understanding of the dynamic business world.

    1. Networking Opportunities: Building Bridges Beyond Borders

    Conferences are dynamic hubs where professionals from varied backgrounds converge. Attending these events opens doors to new connections—with potential mentors, industry leaders, or fellow enthusiasts. The relationships forged at conferences can blossom into collaborations, referrals, and even lifelong friendships, all of which play a pivotal role in fostering a thriving career.

    2. Learning from Experts: Unveiling the Wisdom of Seasoned Minds

    One of the golden aspects of conferences is the wealth of knowledge shared by seasoned experts and thought leaders. These sessions serve as treasure troves of insights into the latest trends, innovative strategies, and future predictions in your industry. Learning from these experts not only enriches your understanding but keeps you ahead of the curve in your professional field.

    3. Inspiration and Motivation: Fueled by Shared Success Stories

    There’s an undeniable energy in being surrounded by driven, like-minded professionals. The stories of success and perseverance shared at conferences can be profoundly inspiring, acting as a powerful fuel for your passion and motivation to achieve new goals in your career.

    4. Staying Updated with Industry Trends: Navigating the Waves of Change

    Success in any industry demands staying abreast of the latest developments. Conferences provide a platform to discuss current dynamics, future predictions, and strategies to navigate through changing landscapes. This knowledge is invaluable, aiding you in making informed decisions and staying competitive in the ever-evolving business landscape.

    5. Personal Brand Building: Crafting Your Professional Identity

    Active participation in conferences is a potent tool for building your personal brand. It showcases your commitment to your career, establishing you as a knowledgeable and reliable professional in the eyes of peers and clients alike.

    6. Access to New Tools and Technologies: Exploring the Frontiers of Innovation

    Conferences often feature exhibitions showcasing the latest tools and technologies in your field. Exploring these innovations can open your eyes to new ways of enhancing your business operations, from cutting-edge methodologies to advanced software solutions.

    7. Continuing Education: Nurturing Professional Growth

    Many conferences offer sessions contributing to continuing education. This not only helps you stay compliant with professional requirements but also enhances your skills and knowledge, ensuring you maintain a competitive edge in your field.

    8. Rejuvenation and New Perspectives: A Breath of Fresh Insight

    Stepping away from the daily grind and immersing yourself in a different environment provides a fresh perspective. Conferences offer a chance to rejuvenate, rethink strategies, and return to your work with renewed energy and ideas.

    So, what’s the message? If you’re a part of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices I encourage you to please sign up for Sales Convention today here: Register Now. Attending conferences is more than just an opportunity to travel and meet new people. It’s a catalyst for personal and professional growth—a chance to learn from the best, stay ahead in your industry, and continuously evolve as a professional. Reflecting on my own experiences, I’m filled with gratitude for the knowledge, connections, and inspiration these conferences have provided. They are, without a doubt, an investment worth making in your journey to success.

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    Thoughts on Leadership: Leading with Love

    By Gino Blefari

    This week my travels find me at home as well as Jacksonville, FL. Monday started with my typical WIG calls and on Tuesday, I had an early morning Berkshire Hathaway Energy weekly executive meeting.

    On Wednesday morning I traveled to Jacksonville, FL. I spent this morning with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty and I will spend tomorrow morning with HomeTeam Inspection Services at their annual Summit. Among other topics I am sharing 6 philosophies on life and business so you can make 2024 your best year yet!

    Read more: Thoughts on Leadership: Leading with Love

    Earlier this year my mom passed away at the age of 93. I wanted to dedicate this week’s blog to her and the leadership lessons we’ve learned from all mothers.

    If you’re interested in reading my mom’s eulogy I’ve included a link below to the words I shared last week at her services.

    1. Lead by Example: Mothers often lead by demonstrating the values and behaviors they want to instill in their children, showing the importance of leading through actions rather than just words.
    2. Effective Communication: Mothers excel in communication, conveying their expectations, providing guidance, and offering support in a clear and empathetic manner, highlighting the importance of effective communication in leadership.
    3. Empathy and Compassion: Mothers are known for their empathy and compassion, understanding the needs and feelings of others. This teaches us the significance of considering the well-being of team members and fostering a supportive environment.
    4. Resilience and Adaptability: Mothers frequently exhibit resilience and adaptability in handling various challenges and juggling multiple responsibilities. This emphasizes the importance of flexibility and perseverance in leadership roles.
    5. Nurturing Growth: Mothers nurture the growth and development of their children, providing encouragement, feedback, and opportunities for learning. This teaches us the value of supporting the growth and development of our team members, empowering them to reach their full potential.

    The eulogy of Dory Blefari

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    Thoughts on Leadership: Building a Winning Team with the Three Bars Framework

    By Gino Blefari

    This week my travels find me at home after a very long week of travel with -9 temps in Denver, CO and 82 degrees in Key West, FL and coming off a 4th quarter comeback 49ers win!

    I started Monday with my typical WIG calls. On Tuesday, I had an early morning Berkshire Hathaway Energy weekly executive meeting followed by our monthly leadership meeting. 

    Read more: Thoughts on Leadership: Building a Winning Team with the Three Bars Framework

    In the dynamic world of leadership, the strength of a team hinges on the collective commitment to excellence. I firmly believe that each team member plays a crucial role in shaping the overall success.

    However, what happens when a standout player, once a beacon of success, starts veering off course?

    In the intricate landscape of business, where decisions sculpt the future, top leaders swear by a fundamental principle: safeguard your company’s culture with every staffing decision. It’s a testament to the profound belief that a robust company culture is the backbone of any triumphant enterprise.

    In this delicate equilibrium, even the most skilled individuals are subject to evaluation if their actions or attitudes pose a threat to the core values of your company’s culture.

    Have you ever pondered the impact of a lone “bad apple” within a team? Research paints a stark picture: a single individual has the potential to lead the entire team astray, tarnishing collective behavior and spirit.

    So, faced with such a predicament, the solution, though daunting, is crystal clear: they need to be let go.

    Now, the challenge lies in distinguishing who is uplifting your team and who is dragging it down. Enter the ingenious three bars framework – a simple yet potent tool. Pose this question: if every team member emulated the values and attitude of a specific employee, would they elevate, sustain, or lower your company’s average performance and morale?

    Those who raise the bar, the true champions of your culture, not only deserve recognition but promotion. Their positive influence should permeate throughout your organization. Conversely, those who lower the bar, regardless of past triumphs, must be let go. Their presence poses a threat to your company’s culture – a cost too steep for any business. The three bars framework isn’t confined to evaluations; it extends to recruitment. Every hiring decision is an opportunity to elevate our team’s standards.

    So, what’s the message? As a leader, prepare yourself for these decisive moments. They aren’t merely administrative actions; they are declarations of your unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving, positive, and resilient company culture.

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    Thoughts on Leadership: Kaizen – Unveiling the Power of Small Steps for Lasting Change

    By Gino Blefari

    This week my travels find me in Denver, Colorado and Key West, Florida. My first stop was to be with the team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Colorado Real Estate for their all-company kick-off meeting and tomorrow morning I will be with the team at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Keys Real Estate for their all company meeting as well.  Among other topics I am sharing 6 philosophies on life and business so you can make 2024 your best year yet!

    Today we’re going to explore the Japanese word, Kaizen. Discovering the potential of making small, gradual changes to transform one’s life. Inspired by this approach, I aim to share insights on how incorporating small steps into your journey can lead to remarkable improvements. Join me as we delve into the principles of Kaizen, unlocking the secrets to positive change in various aspects of your life.

    Read more: Thoughts on Leadership: Kaizen – Unveiling the Power of Small Steps for Lasting Change

    #1 Taking Small Steps for Lasting Change – Harnessing the Power of Small Wins: Embarking on a journey of change is often met with challenges, and the frustration of failed resolutions is a common experience. However, the concept of Kaizen encourages the art of making small, incremental changes. By embracing Kaizen, you can skillfully navigate past the brain’s resistance to change and make the process more manageable. Whether your goal is adopting healthier habits, saving money, or breaking a bad habit, initiating change through small steps can pave the way for significant improvements.

    Moreover, incorporating the concept of small wins amplifies the transformative potential of your journey. Small wins are akin to the steady application of a small advantage. Once a small win is accomplished, it sets in motion forces that favor another small win. These cumulative victories leverage tiny advantages into patterns that convince individuals that more significant achievements are within reach.

    Celebrating small wins can be as simple as crossing off a task on your to-do list. This seemingly minor action, when acknowledged, elevates self-confidence and self-image. The acknowledgement of small wins not only propels you forward but also reinforces the belief that positive changes are not only possible but also attainable through a series of manageable steps.

    #2 The Power of Small Questions: To initiate change, start by asking yourself small questions. Much like acclaimed authors who begin their novels with simple inquiries, asking yourself small questions can lay the groundwork for transformation. By focusing on achievable tasks, you engage your brain, stimulate creativity, and pave the way for gradual solutions. Choose questions carefully to avoid triggering resistance and turn them into habits for sustained progress.

    #3 Mind Sculpture: Crafting Victory through Imagination and Routine: Delve into the transformative “mind sculpture” technique, a potent tool unlocking the potential of your imagination. Visualize yourself skillfully navigating future challenges, intricately detailing a mental rehearsal for success. Much like Olympic athletes mentally preparing for races, this technique cleverly tricks the brain into feeling experienced, thus making the process of change feel less daunting. Integrate mind sculpture into your routine to cultivate a positive mindset, fostering the ability to overcome obstacles.

    In the realm of real estate, success hinges not only on professional skills but also on the development of the right routines. Drawing inspiration from Michael Phelps’s coach, Bob Bowman, who believed in the power of creating effective routines for swimmers, I’ve applied a similar principle to my journey in the real estate business. Having invested a significant portion of my adult life studying from some of the best trainers, I’ve learned that to thrive in real estate, I must prioritize personal growth.

    The key revelation is that success in real estate necessitates working harder on oneself than on the job. Shifting my mindset from fear and merely getting through the day to fearlessness and confidence has been paramount. I crafted a series of behaviors aimed at changing my state, differentiating myself from other REALTORS®. These specific habits, unrelated to real estate but focused on cultivating the right mindset, positioned me as the most mentally resilient REALTOR® in any situation. This routine became the linchpin, enabling me to identify tiny advantages in a competitive business where victory is synonymous with securing the deal.

    #4 Make Your First Step Incredibly Small: Emphasize making your initial step as small as possible. Through a compelling example, we learn that starting with just one minute of exercise per day can lead to sustainable progress. Counterintuitively, small steps often result in faster change, allowing habits to form gradually and become a natural part of your routine.

    #5 Focus on Small Problems First: Addressing small problems can be an effective strategy when faced with overwhelming challenges. Tackling minor issues can lead to significant improvements. By dealing with small problems early on, you may uncover underlying issues and prevent larger complications. Pay attention to warning signs in various aspects of your life for smoother, proactive problem-solving.

    #6 Small Rewards for Big Motivation: Contrary to common belief, small rewards often outperform large ones. Learn from the success of modest rewards in fostering motivation and creativity. Implement small rewards in your life, as exemplified by individuals who motivated themselves through moment-by-moment rewards. Discover how these small incentives can keep you motivated on your journey of continuous improvement. I still have the Cross pen that was given to me in 1986 for being in the Top 1% at Fox and Carskadon. Small reward .. Huge impact. I can still picture Emmett Cashin handing me the pen and congratulating me.

    #7 Appreciate the Little Things in Life: Extend the Kaizen mindset to all areas of your life, especially relationships. Recognize the significance of small, day-to-day moments in strengthening connections. Understand the power of small gestures in predicting relationship success. Practice mindfulness in appreciating and acknowledging the little things, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

    So, what’s the message? Implementing the principles of Kaizen can revolutionize your approach to change. By taking small steps, asking small questions, and appreciating the little things, you can achieve lasting transformations. I encourage you to embrace the Kaizen mindset, counter negative thoughts with positive questions, and remember … change doesn’t have to be difficult. Start your journey with small steps and witness the profound impact they can have on your life.

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    Thoughts on Leadership: Building Your Life’s Blueprint – Leadership Lessons from MLK

    By Gino Blefari

    This week my travels find me in Nashville, TN involved in preparations and filming for the upcoming Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Sales Convention. As I reflect on this vibrant city, my thoughts gravitate towards one of history’s greatest leaders—Martin Luther King Jr. With Martin Luther King Jr. Day just around the corner, it’s a fitting moment to celebrate his enduring achievements and the timeless lessons he left us.

    Perseverance and Passion: Did you know that Martin Luther King Jr., the iconic public speaker, received a C in public speaking during college? His journey from a struggling student to a Nobel Peace Prize recipient is a testament to the power of persistence and passion. Over 11 years of civil activism, he covered 6 million miles and delivered 2,500 speeches, becoming one of the greatest orators in history.

    Read more: Thoughts on Leadership: Building Your Life’s Blueprint – Leadership Lessons from MLK

    The Blueprint of Life: King’s transformative speech at Barratt Junior High School, Philadelphia, PA in 1967 holds wisdom that resonates even today. He posed a fundamental question to the students: “What is your life’s blueprint?” This blueprint, he explained, should include two key elements.

    1. Belief in Your Own Worth: King urged the students to engrain a deep belief in their own dignity and worth. In a world that may attempt to diminish your significance, always remember that you count, you have worth, and your life holds ultimate significance.
    2. Determination for Excellence: Quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson, King emphasized the importance of striving for excellence in one’s life’s work. Whether you become a renowned figure or a street sweeper, approach your work with the determination to do it so well that the world recognizes your excellence.

    Striving for Excellence: For King, the essence was not in the pursuit of fame or wealth but in excelling at whatever path life took. Whether sweeping streets or composing music, he encouraged individuals to approach their endeavors with the same dedication and passion as the great masters.

    Architect of Your Greatness: In the final months of his life, King’s philosophy centered on becoming the best at whatever you do. By striving for excellence, you become the architect of your own greatness. In his parting words to the students in Philadelphia, he emphasized, “Be the best of whatever you are.”

    So, what’s the message? As we honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, let’s carry forward the profound leadership lessons embedded in his life’s blueprint. Whether in the workplace, our industry, or our lives, let us champion diversity, equity, and inclusion. In becoming the architects of our own greatness, we not only pay homage to King’s legacy but also contribute to a more just and compassionate world. As King said to end his plea to the students in Philadelphia, “Be a bush if you can’t be a tree. If you can’t be a highway, just be a trail. If you can’t be a sun, be a star. For it isn’t by size that you win or fail. Be the best of whatever you are.”

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    Thoughts on Leadership: Running with Mismatched Shoes

    By Gino Blefari

    As I kick off this new year, I participated in my regular Berkshire Hathaway Energy call. On Wednesday morning, I participated in the HomeServices of America Diversity MEETS monthly meeting superbly orchestrated by Teresa Palacios Smith, Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer, where I had the honor to announce the recipient of the 2023 HomeServices Diversity Champion Award. This award was presented to Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties – we celebrated and applauded their remarkable achievements and contributions toward advancing diversity and inclusion.  Heartfelt congratulations to them for being exemplary Diversity Champions! On Thursday morning, I also had the opportunity to speak to Intero’s Academy. During my talk, I shared the “6 Philosophies on Life and Business” to help make 2024 the best year yet.

    Read more: Thoughts on Leadership: Running with Mismatched Shoes
    1. There will always be somebody who’s better.
    2. Fueling Growth: Discontent Drives Inspiration.
    3. Find mentors.
    4. Commit to do the work.
    5. Struggle is Necessary for Human Growth.
    6. Our season of change.

    I’d like to offer this to all of our great companies – I’ll be in touch with our leadership teams to schedule in this new year.

    As I gear up for a busy January, I couldn’t help but reminisce about an inspiring story that I’ve shared before and wanted to share again as a reminder.

    A while back, a friend sent me a text asking, “Have you ever studied Jim Thorpe?” Intrigued, I revisited Thorpe’s remarkable journey, a story that has fascinated me since my childhood when I first read Bob Wheeler’s iconic book, “Jim Thorpe: The World’s Greatest Athlete.”

    Jim Thorpe, a track and field star hailing from Oklahoma, is widely regarded as one of the greatest American athletes of the twentieth century. Born as Jacobus Franciscus Thorpe with the name Wa-Tho-Huk (“Bright Path”), he carried the heritage of Sac, Fox, and Potawatomi Indian bloodlines along with French and Irish ancestry.

    There’s an iconic photo of Thorpe during the 1912 Olympics, standing on the track field with two different sneakers. This caught the attention of Wheeler, who embarked on a quest to uncover the truth behind the image.

    As the 1912 Olympics commenced in Stockholm, Thorpe dominated the pentathlon, leading the 1,500-meter run by almost five seconds. The weather was relentless during the three-day decathlon. On the opening day, Thorpe raced down the track, completing the 100-meter dash in a record-breaking 11.2 seconds, a feat unmatched until 1948.

    However, the story took an unexpected turn. On the second day of the decathlon, just minutes before the 1,500-meter race, Thorpe’s sneakers went missing (rumored to be stolen). Facing the challenge of being shoeless, Thorpe frantically sought help from his teammates. With one teammate offering an extra shoe that was too small and another shoe found in the garbage bin that was too large, Thorpe improvised.

    Wearing one too-small shoe and another too-large, the odds were stacked against Thorpe. Yet, with unmatched resilience, he stood on the Olympic starting line, facing the world’s best decathletes. And what did he do? He won, completing the 1,500-meter run in 4 minutes, 40.1 seconds.

    So what’s the message? Never give up. Despite the odds, despite the challenges, never give up. Take the shoes you’re given and run as fast as you can, just like Thorpe did at the Olympics.

    As we step into 2024, let’s embrace the spirit of Jim Thorpe—facing challenges head-on, adapting to what comes our way, and running towards success with unwavering determination.

    Here’s to a remarkable and resilient 2024!

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    Thoughts on Leadership: Leadership Lessons from Santa Claus

    By Gino Blefari

    This week my travels find me starting Monday with my typical WIG calls. On Tuesday, I had an early morning Berkshire Hathaway Energy weekly executive meeting followed by our monthly leadership meeting. On Wednesday, I participated in HomeServices of America’s December corporate team gathering followed by succession planning calls which continued into today.

    Today, as I sit in my cozy home office, sipping on a hot cup of coffee, my thoughts wander to a leader who, though mythical, embodies timeless lessons in leadership – Santa Claus. Yes, you read that right. Santa, the jolly old man from the North Pole, has much to teach us about effective leadership.

    Read more: Thoughts on Leadership: Leadership Lessons from Santa Claus

    Santa Claus, a figure synonymous with generosity and cheer, may not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking about leadership. However, delve a little deeper, and you’ll find his approach holds valuable insights for leaders in any field.

    1. Team Building and Delegation Santa’s workshop, bustling with elves, is a prime example of effective team building and delegation. Each elf has a specific role, playing to their strengths, whether it’s toy-making, reindeer care, or navigation planning. As leaders, recognizing the unique talents of each team member and delegating tasks accordingly is crucial. It’s about creating an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their best.

    2. Consistency and Reliability Year after year, without fail, Santa delivers. His reliability is legendary. In leadership, consistency in your actions and decisions builds trust and reliability within your team. It’s about being someone your team can depend on, come rain, snow, or shine.

    3. Adaptability and Innovation Consider Santa’s evolution over the years. From reindeer-powered sleighs to embracing the digital age for his naughty and nice list, Santa shows adaptability and innovation. In our rapidly changing world, leaders must be flexible and open to new ideas to stay ahead.

    4. Global Perspective Santa’s one-night journey around the globe symbolizes a global perspective, understanding different cultures and traditions. Effective leaders embrace diversity and inclusivity, recognizing that a broad range of perspectives enriches decision-making and problem-solving.

    5. The Spirit of Giving At the heart of Santa’s ethos is the spirit of giving. Leadership isn’t just about guiding a team to success; it’s about what you give back – your time, knowledge, and support. It’s about lifting others as you climb.

    6. Maintaining a Positive Attitude Santa’s trademark “Ho, Ho, Ho” reflects a positive attitude, crucial in leadership. Positivity in the face of challenges is infectious and can motivate your team to push through tough times.

    7. Mystery and Intrigue Santa maintains an air of mystery, a trait that can be beneficial in leadership. It’s not about being secretive but about keeping a sense of intrigue and excitement around your vision and plans, which can drive engagement and interest.

    8. Time Management Finally, Santa’s ability to deliver gifts to children around the world in one night is nothing short of miraculous time management. Effective leaders know how to manage their time wisely, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

    So, what’s the message? Santa Claus, a symbol of joy and generosity, also embodies key leadership qualities – team building, reliability, adaptability, a global perspective, the spirit of giving, positivity, mystery, and exceptional time management. As we enjoy this festive season, let’s take a leaf out of Santa’s book and strive to be better leaders, not just in our workplaces but in every aspect of our lives.

    Happy Holidays!

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