Mona Simpson’s stunning and gorgeous eulogy in the New York Times for her brother, Steve Jobs, talked about his “capacity for wonderment.” Even in his dying days — even in his last words! — Jobs’s wonder and curiosity were among his leading traits.
I’ve found this to be consistent among my clients, which are mostly major consumer brands that most people know: the most successful executives are the most interested and curious ones. They don’t experience complacency and boredom. They create environments, teams, experiences, colleagues — and, yes, products and services — which are interesting and compelling to them.
Complacent (or bored or fearful) executives think small and create boring workplaces, products and services. Curious and wonderous executives think big, and inspire their colleagues and customers.
These weekly thinking launch points are called “Minutes” because they will always be short enough to read in about 60 seconds.