Expose Yourself - to the Big Picture

"A person who knows how may always have a job, but the person who knows why will always be his boss." John Maxwell’s How Successful People Think

As an entrepreneur, I am always looking for tools to help me perfect my craft. I have always enjoyed listening to successful people discuss their approaches to life and business. While at Barnes & Noble searching for a certain book, I came across a small book with the intriguing title of How Successful People Think, by John Maxwell. This blog is a review of the most critical concept in Maxwell’s book – “The Big Picture”. I can’t take credit for the concepts and the relationships, but I freely admit that I endorse his points of emphasis.

In the 50’s, there was a television show entitled The Big Picture. It was a thirty minute show produced and presented by the U.S. Army. The show’s intent was to show the public how small events affected the outcome of major events. It is the entrepreneur’s ability to see this Big Picture that separates him from the manager and employee. These individuals see the work place from their vantage point only. The entrepreneur’s ability to structure an environment where both the manager and employee’s goals are embraced in the company’s big picture determines the overall success of the company.

In his book, Maxwell says “You can find many Big Picture thinkers who aren’t leaders, but you will find few leaders who are not Big Picture thinkers.” The ability to see the Big Picture, to think globally, is what allows leaders to lead.

How does this vision assist the entrepreneur in managing? It allows him to:
1. See the vision before their managers and employees do.
2. Size up and evaluate situations. The big picture view shows possibilities as well as problems.
3. Create a plan to overcome any obstacles and integrate their team in the solution.
4. Create a plan that bridges today with tomorrow.
5. Know when the timing is right to seize the moment.

In short, viewing the company through the prism of the Big Picture allows the entrepreneur to see more broadly and cultivate a plan for success that includes all of his resources.

So how do you become a Big Picture thinker? First and foremost, you must be willing and dedicated to learn from all experiences! Since most people do not feel comfortable outside of their status quo, such a commitment will require a change in your entire approach to life. Big Picture thinkers are willing to try new things, to take chances, and learn from each success or failure.

We encourage you to challenge your way of thinking, to look outside the box, and examine the universe. How Successful People Think is a quick read that will help get you started.

Steve Cook, CPA is the managing shareholder in Cook and Associates, PLLC, a full service CPA firm offering services in tax, assurance, and wealth management with offices located in San Antonio and San Marcos, Texas.