Watch Another Person Bloom

(By John Maxwell)

Scott Adams, creator of the popular Dilbert cartoon, tells this story about his beginnings as a cartoonist:

You don't have to be a "person of influence" to be influential. In fact, the most influential people in my life probably are not even aware of the things they've taught me. When I was trying to become a syndicated cartoonist, I sent my portfolio to one cartoon editor after another—and received one rejection after another. One editor even called and suggested that I take art classes.

Then Sarah Gillespie, an editor at United Media and one of the real experts in the field, called to offer me a contract. At first, I didn't believe her. I asked if I'd have to change my style, get a partner — or learn how to draw. But she believed I was already good enough to be a nationally syndicated cartoonist. Her confidence in me completely changed my frame of reference and altered how I thought about my own abilities. This may sound bizarre, but from the minute I got off the phone with her, I could draw better.

There is no telling what might happen if you were to begin encouraging the dreams of the people around you.

Encourage someone today and you might get to watch them bloom tomorrow.

Taken from Maximize Your Day by John Maxwell. (Published by OMF Literature, Philippines. Available now at Powerbooks and National Bookstore.)