Why Laughter is Important for Success
Bob Wilson grew up in a large family in a small town in Iowa. He has faced many transitions in life—the death of a parent when he was young, divorce, job loss, and career changes. At times it’s been beyond tough, yet he still feels blessed because he found ways to use these challenges to become stronger personally, emotionally, and spiritually. In fact, in 2011 Bob left the corporate world and moved to Arizona to launch his coaching business full-time.
We recently interviewed Bob for our SHOW UP AND SHINE series. As you will see, he believes laughter is an important key to success!
photo credit: Matthew Grapengieser
SHOW UP AND SHINE Questions:
If you boiled life down to one philosophy that brings meaning and adds value to your life no matter what circumstances you face, what is that philosophy for you?
I picture how the most beautiful flower can grow even in a pile of manure. This image helps me realize no matter how challenging life becomes, I can always make something good of it. Everyone faces challenges in life, so anyone can grumble and stagnate. Why not be the person who takes the challenge and learns and grows from it—turn it into a flower.
What are one or two keys to success for you?
This probably sounds strange, but I think laughter is one of the main things. The other is being able to adapt and learn from whatever adversity comes my way. A big reason why both of these are keys to success is both help me grow and connect with others.
What is one of the biggest mistakes you've made and what did you learn from it?
When I started my business I was so excited to tell people about my services, I ended up “telling” first and “asking questions” later. This wasn’t my intention, yet now I see how I came across as if my business was all about me.
So I switched it around—now I “ask first” and “tell second.” Sometimes I don’t even tell and that’s ok. I only talk about what I do if someone has an interest or need. Otherwise, there’s no reason to bring it up.
What is your best advice for people who want to SHOW UP AND SHINE? What would you say to help people live into their bigger story?
Be your authentic self. If you aren’t, others can tell. It’s like the poles of a magnet—the authentic you pulls people towards you and the unauthentic you repels people.
Always give your best effort. I did a workshop once that only one person attended. Boy, I was deflated. It would have been easy to give a half-hearted effort. Instead, I presented the workshop like the room was overflowing with people. The person who attended loved it, and I felt great as well. Don’t let negative circumstances negatively affect the quality of what you deliver!
Question: Bob said laughter was one of his keys to success. What about you? What is one of your keys to success?