Say the Magic Words

There are moments in life when someone says just a few magic words that become powerful beyond the speaker’s imagination.

Perhaps this has happened to you. It has to me – twice.

The first magic moment occurred in 1972 when my high school science teacher, Stan Rhodes, challenged his students to see who could build the strongest bridge using just a limited amount of balsa wood and glue.

On the day of the contest, a serious problem emerged. I knew the span of the bridge could be at least 12 inches, but I got the width wrong. I understood the maximum width was 1 inch. In fact, it was 1.5 inches.

While my design was good, my bridge was 33% thinner than all the others. Even so, it came in second place.

I was crushed. With an additional half-inch of width, I surely would have won the contest.

As I was leaving, Mr. Rhodes pulled me aside and said, ‘Actually, your bridge had the best design. Well done.’

I looked up at him, my mood completely changed.

‘Really?’ I asked in surprise. ‘Do you think so?’

‘Absolutely,’ he grinned. ‘You are a very good designer.’

‘Thanks, Mr. Rhodes!’ I walked away triumphantly.

Today, more than two decades later, I make my living as an innovative curriculum designer. I’ve built bootcamps, orientation programs, international tours, interactive workshops, management retreats, conference games, video and web-based learning systems and more. I am confident and passionate about the power of good design.

Stan Rhodes’ magic comment made a difference.

The second magic moment came when I was new to the business world, a recent graduate of my youthful years as a world-trotting citizen diplomat and Frisbee instructor.

I attended my first National Speakers Association Annual Convention. Nervous and inexperienced, I was under-dressed for the event and had no idea how successful speakers built their impressive careers.

By chance I stood next to Thomas Winninger in the back of a large conference room. Thom and I are about the same height and for an instant we saw eye to eye. He introduced himself with enthusiasm – his trademark. I offered a more hesitant ‘Hello.’ We chatted for just a short while. I felt rather awkward.

A few moments later, Thom looked right at me and spoke with an intensity that went to my core: ‘I can see you’ve got what it takes to succeed in this business. You’ll do well.’

It was a busy conference and Thom was very well known. We soon parted company in different directions. His comment, however, stayed with me.

Today, more than twenty years later, I enjoy my career as a successful professional speaker. Thom was right, I did have what it takes. I wonder how he saw it? Maybe he figured that anyone who showed up at the Annual Convention had the interest and desire, if not yet the skills required.

Then again, perhaps Thom didn’t see much potential at all, but spoke up to help me create it.

Thanks, Thom.