Advice from a Tree

In September, 2015 Wendy had an exciting vacation with family in Yellowstone National Park. She picked up several “Advice from . . ." writings authored by Ilan Shamir and is sharing them with you to expand the thinking and apply to your business.

By Wendy Lydon

Photo by Wendy Lydon

Stand tall and proud

Congratulations on being a leader! Small achievements lead to larger ones. Not everyone can achieve what you have done. Be humble and be gracious, too!

Sink your roots into the earth

Did you know that what you see above ground is really determined by what you can’t see that’s underground? What happens underground in a business (where the roots live) drives the ability for the business to grow. The bigger and healthier the root system, the bigger and healthier the business. The roots of any business are the systems which provide an anchor for it to stay on track and grow. More, importantly, the systems provide the lifeline, air, water and nutrients for the business. This is the magic for business growth and prosperity.

Be content with your natural beauty

Be satisfied with what you have created. It is not an easy task to create and nurture a business. Enjoy the life that the business provides for you and your team. 

Go out on a limb

One of the foundations of success is a willingness to go out on a limb when necessary. In fact, in business and in life generally, all meaningful progress is preceded by the decision to take a risk and do something.

Drink plenty of water

If we do not stay hydrated, physical performance can suffer. Your brain is strongly influenced by your hydration status. Mild dehydration can impair energy levels and mood and lead to major reductions in memory and brain performance. The business and your team needs you to be your best functioning self at all times. 

Remember your roots

Your roots connect you to family, communities, cultures and ideals. As your life takes you in different directions, always remember where you came from. Entrepreneurship helps you to reconnect with the roots that ground you. Acknowledge and celebrate your heritage at every opportunity as it is one of the largest contributing factors to who you are as a person and will always be a part of you.