I am a Charles Schulz superfan, and for more reasons than the fact we both graduated from good old Central High School in St. Paul, Minn. I often quote the “Peanuts” cartoon strip in this column, because, in addition to being a gifted cartoonist, Schulz was a deep thinker.
The following quiz is based on Schulz’s philosophy:
1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman Trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest.
4. Name 10 people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer Prize.
5. Name the last half-dozen Academy Award winners for best actor or actress.
How did you do? The point is few of us remember the superstars of yesterday. Applause fades, awards tarnish and achievements are forgotten.
Here’s another quiz. See how you do on this one:
1. List a few teachers who helped you in school.
2. Name three friends who supported you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who taught you something.
4. Who is one person that made you feel appreciated and special?
5. Picture five people you enjoy spending time with.
Isn’t that easier? The people who make a difference in your life are not the ones with the most credentials, the most money or the most awards. They are the ones who give the most.
Never underestimate the importance of people in your life. And always look for opportunities to improve your relationships, no matter how good they already are.
Understanding the importance of people in both personal and professional contexts is crucial for a fulfilling and successful life.
People play a vital role in our personal lives by providing emotional support. Family and friends provide a support system that helps us navigate life’s ups and downs. They offer love, understanding and encouragement.
People in our lives enrich our experiences by sharing in our joys and sorrows. These shared moments create lasting memories and deepen relationships.
Close relationships also challenge us to grow and become better people. They provide feedback, inspire change and help us develop empathy and compassion.
Finally, being part of a community or family gives us a sense of belonging and identity, which helps us feel connected and valued.
On the professional side, collaboration and teamwork are essential for achieving common goals. Diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions and improved outcomes.
Building professional relationships opens doors to new opportunities, career advancement and knowledge sharing. Networking can lead to mentorship and partnerships.
Colleagues and mentors can provide guidance, support and motivation, helping us overcome challenges and stay focused on our career objectives. The people we work with shape the culture of our organizations. A positive, inclusive culture fosters engagement, productivity and job satisfaction.
People are the cornerstone of our success and happiness. They provide support, challenge us to grow and enrich our lives in countless ways.
One of the most impactful people in my life was my University of Minnesota history professor and academic adviser, Harold Deutsch. He not only taught history, he lived it. He was the leading historian and interpreter at the Nuremberg Trials. Professor Deutsch taught me valuable life lessons that have stayed with me throughout my career.
He had a unique way of making history come alive, which sparked my interest and curiosity. But beyond the subject matter, he instilled in me the importance of critical thinking and the value of understanding different perspectives. His guidance helped shape my approach to business and life, encouraging me to always seek knowledge and remain open to learning from others.
Another significant influence was my golf coach at the University of Minnesota, Les Bolstad. Coach Bolstad taught me the importance of discipline, perseverance and maintaining a positive attitude, even in challenging situations. His mentorship extended beyond the golf course, impacting my approach to business challenges and personal growth.
One person who made me feel appreciated and special was my high school English teacher, Ms. Malmon. She went out of her way to nurture the unique qualities in each of her students. Ms. Malmon recognized my passion for writing and encouraged me to explore it further. Her feedback was always constructive and positive, which helped me build confidence in my abilities.
These mentors not only shared their expertise but also provided encouragement and support, helping me become the person I am today.
Mackay’s Moral: The quality of your life is greatly influenced by the quality of your relationships — nurture them, and they will nurture you.
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