Paul Smith spent the first 24 years after college following a typical corporate career path. In the variety of positions he has held, studying and learning about the art of leadership, communication, influence and character have been part of his passion.
“As a department head, I was responsible for the development and success of my team,” said Smith. “I wanted to see them grow and develop as people. Through the years I noticed that sharing stories was much more powerful than lecturing people. I ended up writing ‘Lead with a Story,’ a collection of short stories that addresses the 21 toughest challenges leaders face.”
As Smith was conducting research for his book, people often said they could use those stories at work and at home. After the book’s release in 2012, Smith worked on a book for parents that would arm them with hundreds of life lessons. While writing the second book, Smith wanted to quit his job to devote more time to teaching and writing.
“I had mentally and emotionally decided to quit, but didn’t have the courage to do it. As the sole provider for my family, all kinds of ‘what-ifs’ were running through my mind. I decided to write my 80-year-old father and ask for advice. He sent the following reply:
“‘At age five I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my life. I wanted to be a singer. The first day of first grade, the teacher asked if anybody had a special talent. I raised my hand and said I was a singer. She asked me to stand and sing a song. When I finished, the kids and the teacher stood up and applauded. That’s when I knew for certain I was destined to be a singer. That was the first and last time I sang in front of people. Life got in the way. Someday you will wake up and you will be 80 and it will be too late. I’d love to see you achieve your dream. That doesn’t mean in your lifetime, son. That means in mine.’
“Two days later, I quit my job. The power of that story gave me the courage to pursue my dreams.”
As a result, Smith completed his new book, “Parenting with a Story,” which was released in November. It contains stories and lessons to help teach 23 powerful character traits, including how to deal with bullying and peer pressure.
“When I was 17, my dad helped me get a job at his place of employment,” says Smith. “Once a year, my boss took a group of us to lunch. The restaurant had two options for our group Quiche Lorraine or a club sandwich. (The book) ‘Real Men Don’t Eat Quiche’ had just been released. All the men were ordering the sandwich.
“Having never had quiche before, Dad ordered half-quiche, and half-sandwich. The men gave my father a hard time. He called the waitress over and told her to take back the sandwich and bring a whole quiche. My respect for him went through the roof. Watching him taught me a lesson I will never forget. I’ve used this story with my own boys when they have struggled with classmates.”
Next time you want to make a point with your children, try making it with a story from your life or from the book. You might be surprised at the power of a story.
Julie Baumgardner is the president and CEO of First Things First. Contact her at julieb@firstthings.org.