We spend much of our day as consumers. That is, we consume e-mail, blogs, Facebook posts, tweets, news stories, TV shows, etc. I bet if you sat back and added it up, most of your day is spent consuming information presented by others. And when we consume, we are passive. We accept and ponder what we consume.
Here's a challenge: Stop consuming so much information and instead produce, create, and act. When we produce, we achieve. When we achieve, we have a chance to improve ourselves, our work, and our communities. In short, achievers are the heroes who get things done.
This year, the theme of the 13th Annual Wipfli National Management Conference is achievement. We have more than 90 sessions planned, covering leadership, finance, management, human resources, technology, and more. There will be a lot of information for you to consume and take home with you. But didn't I just stay stop consuming so much?
What I'm really talking about is balance. I think we consume too much and act too little. We do need to learn, and I would never suggest stopping that. What I am suggesting is: Don't be a passive learner. Balance your consumption of knowledge with production of actions. That is, learn and then put what you learned to good use. Fast.
I am going to issue a challenge. Attend this year’s conference and learn from your trainers. But don't stop there: Challenge your trainers in the sessions you attend. Make the information practical for you. Think immediately how you'll use it. Note your actions, and then act.
When you put into action what you learn at this year’s conference, you will create the improvement you are seeking. You will become an achiever. And remember, achievers are heroes.
Attend this year's conference. Learn. Execute. Achieve. Be a Hero.