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Foreword
Thirteen years ago, when I published my first best-selling book, The Energy Bus, I thanked many people who helped me achieve my dream. Included in my acknowledgments was this paragraph to my brother, Dave:
Thank you to my brother for always challenging me and helping me improve this book. Your ideas, suggestions, and encouragement helped make this book the best it could be. I look forward to seeing your book next to mine in the bookstore.
Well, the wait is over, and I’m so happy that my brother has finally turned his many years of industry leadership and creative expertise into his first book, destined to make a big impact on teams and organizations. Why am I so confident? Dave has spent his entire career building personal, team, and organizational brands, and TIP is the culmination of his life’s work to date. A fantastic writer, an entertaining motivational speaker, and an inspiring leader and coach, Dave has crafted a game plan for your success.
Over the past 17 years, I’ve had the opportunity to speak to, and consult with, leaders of organizations, teams, and communities across the world. From NCAA champions to Super Bowl and World Series contenders, to the most highly respected and profitable Fortune 500 companies, there is one principle, when practiced well, that is consistent with high-performing teams and companies: personal accountability. A team will only succeed and a company will only grow when each person on that team is accountable for their own success and brings unique value to their role.
As my reputation and influence have grown as a speaker and author, I know the importance of consistency in words and actions when building a strong personal brand. Everything I do or say will have an effect on my life, my business, and the future of everyone around me. I am accountable for everyone close to me, so I live with one purpose: to create positive leaders, teams, and organizations, one person at a time.
After reading this book, and following Dave’s guidance, you will see how your reputation and the recognition you receive in your career and your life are very much in your own control. You just have to remember who you are, what you stand for, and live with a driving purpose to help others be their best.
—Jon Gordon
Author of The Power of Positive Leadership and The Energy Bus
Acknowledgments
I want to thank the many people who have helped me in my life and my career. This book, and the goal of being a published author, could not be possible without the love and support of so many.
First and foremost, I thank my wife, Kate. You believed in me long before I believed in myself. My best friend, tireless editor, harshest critic, biggest cheerleader, and loving coach; this story has always been for you. Thank you for being the guiding and unwavering force of our home, our business, and our lives.
For my children, Dylan, Shannon, and Megan. Your input throughout the editing process for this book was invaluable. The three of you have been my inspiration. It has always been my goal to help you find your unique talents, and give you the support to discover your path to happiness and lasting success. Being your dad helped me discover mine.
For my brother, Jon. Thank you for encouraging me to find my purpose. I couldn’t have done any of this without you.
Thank you to Shannon Vargo, Sally Baker, Peter Knox,
