I had a chance to share a meal with Greg Hartle. Does his name sound familiar? It shouldn’t.
Not that he is not remarkable, but he is not trying to be remarkable and famous. He is just traveling around the country, making enough, and trying to rebuild his life as he works towards some goals – one of which being to help 500 people.
Really? After a near death experience and asking himself some big questions, he decided to take $10, a laptop, and some clothes – and go help people. If you want to know more here is his link. I want to brand him with some statement like – Meet Mother Theresa wearing jeans. But the truth is that would do a disservice to Mother Theresa and to Greg. You see, he is just trying to be a better Greg, and that should be good enough for all of us.
I loved listening to Greg. What hit me was the perspective he has gained from sitting in the living rooms or across the table from over 250+ people across this country trying to help them through their life transitions. He is focused on micro-micro economics. In that world the graphs go away and we can talk in names, addresses, and challenges. He is also one of those genuine people that makes you want to shut out the world for a while and enjoy being present.
Two thoughts he left me with that continue to roll around –
He sees lots of people fully prepared for a world that no longer exists. If you are not ready to personally manage the cycle of learn, unlearn, and relearn – then in a few missed cycles you risk becoming stuck in a difficult place. Learn, do, do, do, do better, do, do, do, do, do a little better – does not exist.
Purpose + Passion + Skill for their craft. Many people have purpose and passion, but too often the gap is in the level of skill they have for their intended craft. You see, the skill piece takes a dedication to something, over the course of time, to work towards mastery. (see Gladwell’s 10,000 hour rule) Also, see point number one.
The rest of Greg Hartle’s story can be followed on Facebook, or check out the business he just launched at newmethods.org. He was also a great speaker if you are looking for someone to inspire your group.
Thanks Greg.