Also published on LinkedIN

I came across this TED talk from Simon Sinek. It resonated with me on so many levels I just had to share my perspective.

One of the most profound compliments I received in my career was from a former colleague, Joshua Teague. In 2001 we worked together at a startup company called Allegro Networks based in San Jose. After working insane hours together, he asked if I had ever been in the military. When I said I had not, he smiled and made this statement. “Well Dean, I would choose to be in a foxhole with you.” I laughed and asked what he meant. Josh explained that in the military, your life is literally in the hands of the soldier next to you. You have to trust that person with your life. He went on to say that if he had to choose someone to be with when under fire, it would be me. Wow…

After watching this video, I found myself listing the leaders in my career that I trusted. The ones that made me feel safe. The ones that unlocked my potential and gave me the opportunity to become better. The ones that were also there in tough times; when I was too attached to something, missing the bigger picture, being stubborn, making mistakes or just plain wrong. They had my back. They had my best intentions in mind,  They cared about “me”. There was a relationship that mattered to them. They chose to be in the foxhole with me, providing cover fire.

In my career and in my personal life I strive to built relationships that matter. Ones built on trust. My heartfelt thanks to those who have returned that trust me. I’ve got your six. 🙂