For many years, both business leaders as well as authors and speakers (like me) have talked at length about “managing change.”
The title of my first business speech many years ago was “Dragonslayers” on overcoming the overwhelming monster of change on our voyage to profit and success.
We often implied that change was a process that suggested some degree of control and predictability. You could see change coming, plan for it, and guide your organization through carefully plotted transitions.
Traditional change management approaches often follow a linear path: assess the situation, create a plan, implement changes, and stabilize the situation. These methods assumed you could identify clear start and end points. It also assumed that the external environment would remain relatively constant during implementation.
Here’s the problem: today’s business environment demands a new vocabulary and, more importantly, a new mindset. What we’re experiencing isn’t merely change—it’s turbulence.
The distinction is crucial.
Change suggests a shift from one relatively stable state to another, like updating your product line or expanding into a new market.
Turbulence, on the other hand, is characterized by multiple, simultaneous disruptions that interact with and amplify each other in unexpected ways.
Think of it like flying an aircraft. Change is like adjusting your altitude or course—a controlled modification within stable conditions. Turbulence is when multiple air currents create unpredictable forces from all directions, requiring constant adjustments and a different set of skills altogether.
Consider how artificial intelligence isn’t just changing productivity tools—it’s simultaneously transforming customer service, product development, marketing, and talent management. This transformation is happening while organizations grapple with evolving work models, global supply chain reorganization, and shifting consumer expectations.
This means that today’s environment demands a new type of leader to move an organization beyond distinction: the turbulence navigator.
This leader operates more like an experienced river guide than a traditional corporate executive—constantly reading signals, adjusting course, and helping their team ride the rapids rather than fight against them.
Here are just three key attributes of effective turbulence navigators:
Comfort with Paradox
Turbulence navigators understand that seemingly contradictory things can be true simultaneously. They can maintain stability while driving innovation, preserve core values while radically changing operations, and balance short-term survival with long-term transformation. Rather than trying to resolve these tensions, they learn to hold them productively, using the energy of opposing forces to move their organizations forward.
Dynamic Balancing
Like a skilled kayaker, turbulence navigators constantly shift their weight and adjust their position. They don’t try to force their organization into a fixed stance but instead help it maintain dynamic equilibrium. This might mean rapidly reallocating resources, shifting priorities, or reorganizing teams—not as one-time changes but as ongoing adjustments to maintain momentum and balance.
Energized by Uncertainty
Perhaps most importantly, turbulence navigators don’t just cope with uncertainty—they’re energized by it. They see turbulent conditions as rich with possibility rather than fraught with danger. This mindset is contagious, helping their teams move from anxiety about constant change to excitement about emerging opportunities.
This new leadership model requires what my friend Scott Stratten calls “unlearning” with new learning. Many successful executives must unlearn their instinct for control and certainty, replacing it with a capacity for reading and riding waves of change. They need to shift from seeing their role as providing answers to asking better questions, from directing responses to enabling effective proactivity.
The future belongs not to the strongest or the most efficient but to those best able to read and rise above the power of turbulent forces. Merely “standing out” in your marketplace will no longer be enough. You will need to lead your team beyond distinction to transcend today’s challenges.
Gratitude shouldn’t just be something we express once a year; it should shape how we live each day.
My mentor, the late Grady Nutt, captured this beautifully in his concept of ‘ThanksLiving.'”
Grady described “ThanksLiving” as: “An attitude that finds treasure in the plowed field of routine.” This perspective challenges us to rethink gratitude. While we often reserve it for life’s big moments—family, friends, career success—the truth is that much of our joy resides in the quiet, everyday routines we take for granted.
The coming week in the United States brings our annual Thanksgiving holiday. Even when our nation is as politically divided as it is today, we will still stop to express our blessings. (As we should…) But isn’t it interesting that we primarily express our gratitude for the big things in life — our family, friends, and career success? We seldom announce our appreciation for the “plowed field of routine” in our lives…even though that’s where we spend most of our time and where the seeds of gratitude can grow abundantly.
In a turbulent world, ThanksLiving offers an anchor—a way to cherish the moments that truly matter.
It’s a reminder that joy isn’t found in grand gestures but in the quiet rhythms of our lives, like the comfort of a familiar morning routine or the simple pleasure of sharing a meal.
Finding Joy in Routine
Every year at this time, I’m reminded of the wisdom of my dear, departed friend who was the Obi-Wan-sage to my young, ambitious Skywalker-speaker of long ago. Grady often remarked that I should slow down and enjoy the journey to success. “If you miss the small stuff, then the big stuff will not have the meaning it should. My hope is that you drink deeply from the waters of all life’s experiences,” he would tell me.
We have all likely lost someone special in our lives. It presents us with a unique understanding of the value of a single day, a moment in time. As Warren Zevon was dying of cancer, he said to David Letterman, “Enjoy every sandwich.” It is no coincidence that my friends in the band Diamond Rio had one of their biggest hits with a song titled “One More Day.”
Grady’s wisdom reminds us that gratitude is more than a once-a-year practice. Instead, it’s a mindset we should maintain daily, even during mundane activities. We all need these reminders to seize the value and worth of every moment.
Living Thankfully Every Day
Here are three ways to start practicing ThanksLiving:
Begin each day by naming one thing you’re thankful for in your daily routine.
Pause during moments of stress to reflect on something positive happening right now.
End your day by writing down one ‘treasure’ you found in the ‘plowed field of routine.’
As we gather around the Thanksgiving table tomorrow, let’s commit to ThanksLiving—not just for a day but for every day.
Let’s drink from the ‘water of life’s experiences’ with zest, as Grady described, and find the treasures hidden in life’s ordinary moments.
In doing so, we can transform gratitude from a fleeting sentiment celebrated on a single day into a more meaningful way of life.
This past week, I had the privilege of being one of three friends asked to speak at a book launch and celebration honoring the life of my friend Joe Bonsall, a 50-year member of the legendary Oak Ridge Boys. Joe’s remarkable legacy was not just in his music, though his voice undoubtedly touched millions. His true distinction lay in something even more profound: his ability to encourage others.
A recurring theme emerged as I listened to fellow speakers and spoke with audience members—Joe was an encourager.
He had a way of making others feel seen, valued, and capable. And it wasn’t limited to those in his industry. Whether it was a young musician dreaming of stardom or someone like me who works outside the entertainment world, Joe offered words of belief and support. His encouragement wasn’t strategic or self-serving. It came from a genuine place of care and connection.
In reflecting on his life, I couldn’t help but think about the transformative power of encouragement. In a world that often feels hyper-critical and divided, encouragement is one of our most underutilized and undervalued tools. But its impact is immense.
Encouragement Creates Belief
We’ve all faced moments of doubt—times when the mountain ahead seems insurmountable. In those moments, a simple word of encouragement can spark a belief we didn’t know we had. Joe’s encouragement often had this effect. His words didn’t just motivate; they instilled confidence. He had a knack for reminding people of their unique gifts, often when they struggled to see them themselves.
Belief is a powerful thing. It’s the foundation of every achievement and every act of courage. When someone believes in us, it’s as though they’re lending us strength until we can build our own. Encouragement, at its core, is the act of transferring belief.
Encouragement Inspires Action
Encouragement isn’t passive; it’s a call to action. When someone encourages us, they’re not just saying, “You can do this.” They’re saying, “You should do this.” It pushes us to move beyond our comfort zones and take that next step, no matter how daunting.
Joe’s encouragement wasn’t just kind words—it was a challenge to live fully and to pursue dreams with everything we have.
Encouragement Leaves a Legacy
Joe Bonsall’s legacy is a testament to the ripple effect of encouragement. Each person he inspired will carry his words with them, passing them along to others. It’s a cycle that has no end. We may not all leave behind platinum records or a place in the Country Music Hall of Fame, but we all have the ability to leave a legacy of encouragement. And that legacy has the power to transcend generations.
How You Can Be an Encourager
You don’t need a stage or a platform to encourage someone. You just need the willingness to notice others and speak life into their dreams. Here are four ways you can start:
1. Acknowledge Strengths: Take a moment to point out the qualities or talents you admire in someone. You might be surprised at how much they need to hear it.
2. Offer Support: Sometimes encouragement isn’t just words; it’s showing up, lending a hand, or providing resources to help someone move forward.
3. Challenge Gently: Encourage people to stretch beyond their perceived limits. Let them know you see their potential, even if they don’t yet.
4. Be Generous with Positivity: Kindness and affirmation cost nothing but have immeasurable value. Share them freely.
You Are Needed
In the spirit of Joe Bonsall, I want to leave you with this: You are capable of more than you realize. Whatever challenges you’re facing, whatever dreams you’ve been putting off—step forward.
The world needs your contribution, and there is someone out there who will be inspired by your journey.
Just as Joe encouraged me, let this post be my encouragement to you. Believe in yourself, take action, and leave a legacy of encouragement for others.
Because, in the end, that might be the most iconic thing any of us can do.
When I reflect on my many clients who have followed the distinction prescription that I propose — either because they are subscribing to my insight, they’ve found their own pathway there, or a combination — I marvel at the transformation that has been the result. Just look at my often-cited case studies like the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, High Point University, St. Elmo Steakhouse, the Savannah Bananas, and more. You’ll see organizations that have not only created marketplace distinction, they’ve moved into the realm of iconic examples that transcends their respective industries.
In today’s crowded marketplace, businesses face a critical challenge: standing out from the competition. You know that I’m convinced that the answer lies in creating distinction—the ability to differentiate yourself in ways that captivate customers and compel them to choose you over anyone else.
But distinction is not just about being different; it’s about being uniquely valuable.
Businesses that embrace distinction as the core strategy will unlock the key to transformation. Instead of competing on price or getting lost in the sea of sameness, they focus on what makes them remarkable—whether it’s delivering unparalleled customer experiences, offering innovative products, or communicating a brand story that resonates deeply with their audience.
Transformation occurs when distinction drives not only marketing but also decision-making. It becomes a guiding principle that informs everything from product development to how employees interact with customers.
The result? Greater customer loyalty, increased revenue, and a brand that people trust and recommend.
Creating distinction is not a one-time effort—it’s an ongoing process of constantly evaluating what sets your business apart and how you can build on that uniqueness. Those who commit to this path see a profound shift in their business performance and reputation.
In a world where blending in means getting left behind, distinction is the catalyst that propels your business forward. The most successful companies don’t just serve customers—they create experiences and value that can’t be found anywhere else.
That’s the transformative power of distinction.
One of the tools that can help you transform your business in the distinctive manner required by today’s marketplace is Artificial Intelligence (AI). The question is: Are you prepared to take your business to the next level with AI? I’ve discovered that Bob Dietrich and Pamela Dunn have created an incredible resource that will help you do just that.
Introducing the Unleash AI For Business Summit: a FREE virtual event featuring me and other top entrepreneurs who are currently using AI in their businesses.
We will share the strategies we have developed and are currently using in our businesses to implement AI successfully. I’ll be sharing how to use AI to inject personal stories into your content — essential to avoid the trap of your content sounding like everyone else with a ChatGPT subscription!
And the best part? I’ve arranged a complimentary ticket for you to attend!
In this event, top entrepreneurs will show you how to:
– Multiple Ways To Use ChatGPT To Create Scroll Stopping Content – Design Engaging Online Courses Effortlessly with AI – Using AI To Create A Deeper, Authentic Connection With Your Audience – Elevate Your Sales with AI-generated Content – AI-Driven Techniques for Scaling Effective Social Media Reach – Using AI to Create and Launch Your Powerful Book – How to Develop Your Clarity Statement to Effectively Use AI – How to Simplify Your Business With Custom GPTs for Content Creation – Using AI to Automate and Personalize Messaging for Your Ideal Client – Save 75% of Your Time by Leveraging AI and Smart Delegation – How To Use AI To Supercharge Your Virtual Assistant – Top 5 Ways To Monetize Online with AI – and much more…
These interviews are short, to-the-point conversations with real entrepreneurs who are creating amazing results with AI. And you can watch it all for free from anywhere! But don’t wait too long – grab your complimentary ticket now before they’re all gone: https://www.unleashaiforbusiness.com/link.php?id=211&h=fc82490543
You don’t want to miss out on this opportunity to learn from the best in the industry.
P.S. Join me and additional experts like Jay Abraham, Mike Abramowitz, Ridgely Goldsborough, and over 30 more.
In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, digital transformation is no longer a buzzword—it’s a reality. As organizations embrace new technologies to streamline operations, improve customer experiences, and stay competitive, leaders must adapt their approaches to guide their teams effectively. But how do leaders stand out in a world flooded with digital tools and platforms? How do they lead in a distinctive manner?
To lead distinctively in the age of digital transformation, leaders must go beyond traditional management skills and develop a unique set of competencies that align with the demands of a digital-first world. I have been—and currently am—working with leaders who have significant difficulty with this issue. They want to apply yesterday’s standards to today’s high-potential team members. It just doesn’t work.
Here are five key attributes and strategies that define distinctive leadership in this new era:
1. Embrace a Visionary Mindset
Distinctive leaders have always been visionaries.They still are. They see beyond the immediate technological changes and envision how digital transformation can shape their organization’s future. It’s not just about adopting the latest tools; it’s about understanding how they can enhance the company’s unique value proposition and drive long-term success.
Remember, the first Cornerstone of Distinction (from my books, “ICONIC” and “Create Distinction”) is CLARITY.
A distinctive leader communicates her vision clearly and consistently, ensuring every team member understands how their work contributes to the broader strategy.
This clarity fosters alignment and inspires innovation and creative problem-solving across the organization.
2. Cultivate a Culture of Agility and Continuous Learning
Digital transformation is synonymous with rapid change. Distinctive leaders cultivate a culture that embraces agility and continuous learning. They recognize that what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow, and they encourage their teams to stay curious, experiment with new ideas, and learn from failures without fear.
Distinctive leaders know that the old saying, “Knowledge is power,” is incorrect. Only the knowledge that is applied will have an impact.
You can expect more on this for one of my weekly “Myth Buster Monday” segments here on LinkedIn.
By promoting a growth mindset, distinctive leaders empower their teams to adapt quickly to new technologies and market demands. They invest in ongoing training and development, ensuring their workforce is equipped with the skills needed to thrive in a digital environment. This commitment to learning helps organizations stay ahead of the curve and sets them apart from competitors stuck in outdated ways of thinking.
3. Promote Digital Literacy and Emotional Intelligence
While technical skills are essential, distinctive leaders understand that emotional intelligence is equally important in a digital world. They strive to foster digital literacy across all levels of their organization, ensuring employees understand how to use new tools effectively and ethically. However, they also emphasize the importance of empathy, communication, and relationship-building.
In a digital-first environment, where remote and hybrid work is becoming the norm, connecting with others on a human level is crucial.
Distinctive leaders prioritize clear, empathetic communication, understanding that technology should enhance—not replace—the human touch. They lead with empathy, actively listen to their teams, and foster a sense of belonging and purpose, even in a virtual setting.
4. Leverage Data for Decision-Making, Not as a Crutch
Data is the lifeblood of digital transformation, but distinctive leaders know that data is only as valuable as the insights drawn from it. They leverage data to inform decision-making but don’t let it become a crutch. Instead, they combine data-driven insights with intuition, experience, and a deep understanding of their organization’s unique context.
By balancing data with human judgment, distinctive leaders make more nuanced and compelling decisions.
They also encourage their teams to question assumptions, consider multiple perspectives, and avoid becoming overly reliant on algorithms or automated processes. This approach fosters a more dynamic and innovative workplace and helps maintain a distinct identity in an increasingly homogenized digital landscape.
5. Champion Customer-Centric Innovation
Finally, distinctive leaders understand that digital transformation should always be in service of the customer. They champion customer-centric innovation, using technology to enhance the customer experience and deliver unique value.
Whether through personalized marketing, streamlined service delivery, or new digital products, distinctive leaders prioritize innovations that solve real customer problems and build lasting relationships.
They stay close to their customers, using digital tools to constantly gather feedback, track preferences, and anticipate needs. This customer-first approach drives loyalty and sets the organization apart as a leader in digital transformation who truly understands and cares about its audience.
Leading distinctively in the age of digital transformation requires more than just technical know-how—it demands a visionary mindset, a commitment to continuous learning, and a deep understanding of both digital tools and human dynamics.
By embracing these qualities and strategies, leaders can guide their organizations through the complexities of digital change and emerge not just as followers of trends but as trailblazers in their industry.
The future belongs to those who will blend technology with a distinctive, human-centered approach to leadership.
Last night, I had the incredible honor of receiving the Cavett Award from the National Speakers Association, the highest accolade in our profession. It’s a dream for every professional speaker, and I am truly humbled to join the ranks of legends who have inspired and shaped our industry.
The surprise announcement was a moment I’ll never forget, but what has stayed with me most since then is an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
This award is not just a recognition of individual achievement; it is a testament to the incredible relationships I have built with my clients, colleagues, and friends over the years. These relationships have been the cornerstone of my career, and they continue to inspire and drive me every day.
Receiving the Cavett Award also marks a recommitment from me to assist organizations and leaders in creating distinction in their respective markets. It reinforces my dedication to delivering the Ultimate Customer Experience® and helping businesses achieve what I often emphasize: earning “more customers who will spend more money, more often, and provide more referrals.”
To all my clients and friends, thank you for your trust, support, and partnership. This award is as much yours as it is mine. Let’s continue this journey together, striving for excellence and making a difference in every endeavor.
Here’s to creating distinction and delivering extraordinary experiences!
