“The superior man is modest in his speech, but exceeds in his actions.” – Confucius
There are a number of stories and legends behind Missouri’s state motto “Show-Me” state.
The most widely known legend attributes the phrase to Missouri’s U.S. Congressman Willard Duncan Vandiver, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1897 to 1903.
While a member of the U.S. House Committee on Naval Affairs, Vandiver attended an 1899 naval banquet in Philadelphia. In a speech there, he declared, “I come from a state that raises corn and cotton and cockleburs and Democrats, and frothy eloquence neither convinces nor satisfies me. I am from Missouri. You have got to show me.”
Regardless of whether Vandiver coined the phrase, it is certain that his speech helped to popularize the saying.
To “Show Me” connotates a certain pragmatic stubbornness, a no-nonsense approach to living, and a devotion to simple common sense.
It sends a clear message that a smoke and mirrors approach won’t fly around these parts, and that you will ONLY be believed once you can prove that the results are real and legitimate.
In my opinion, it’s a brilliant, transparent, and effective approach to life that anyone can adopt to perform at their absolute best.
For those that are tired of all the B.S. being thrown around, and all the blowhards who talk a good game but don’t have the integrity or capacity to back up the talk, this message will be well received.
I’m going to show you how to apply, and challenge you to adopt the Show Me philosophy to your life and career.
There comes a time when all the theory, talk, and verbal posturing have to stop and when you I have to prove that we can and will deliver results.
From this moment moving forward, make your life a model of the Show Me philosophy.
1. Show Me That You Love Me
Think of everything you can do, large and small to demonstrate your love, devotion and appreciation without saying a word. Show your spouse, partner, kids and even your customers how much you love and adore them. The message will be received quickly and appreciated far more as well.
2. Show Me That You’re Committed to Excellence
Define the non-negotiable rules of a superior performance and then flawlessly and consistently perform the part. Your actions will be far more powerful than your words.
3. Show Me How Hungry You Really Are
Get up early, develop a daily game plan, hustle, throw yourself into every task and your actions will show and tell the world how badly you really want it. Bounce back from set backs quickly, never lose your enthusiasm for your goal, and confront every obstacle with an indomitable, unconquerable spirit.
4. Show Me That You’re a Professional
Be on time, be fully prepared, be actively engaged, go the extra mile and consistently deliver results. You’ll never have to utter a word as your reputation will do all the talking for you.
5. Show Me That You Have a Sense of Urgency
Work fast, focused and purposeful. Set a deadline on each activity and neither accept nor provide any excuses. Your show me actions will open up new and greater opportunities almost immediately.
6. Show Me That You Have Integrity
Honor your commitments, keep your promises and do exactly what you say you are going to do. By doing so, you’ll never have to explain away contradictions nor apologize for behavioral indiscretions. You’ll be trusted which is the greatest win of all.
The strategic benefits of living a “Show Me” existence are vast and profound:
– Your reputation will speak well of your character and professionalism.
– Opportunities will come faster and with less effort.
– People will trust you and gladly provide referrals.
– You will make more money.
– You will attract an entirely new quality of people and clients.
– You will have the inner confidence of a champion.
– You will never have to apologize for not walking your talk.
All the promises, explanations and asides in the world pale in comparison with what you do.
Too often, we forget that jargon and narrative exist to help shape our actions, not to replace them.
Words keep getting cheaper, which makes your actions more valuable than ever.
Remember, behavior never lies…that’s why the Show Me philosophy is not only the right way to live your life…it’s the only way.
Gary Ryan Blair
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