Ladies and gentlemen, restart your engines!

Today, I’ll be the first to tell you: “I’ve got gas!” I know that sounds like too much information, but not after I tell you why. This week, I had the pleasure of attending the general session of an eHDS user conference in Cleveland. The keynote speaker, Brian Blasko, gave an inspiring and fun-loving automotive look at how to grow your personal and leadership abilities using an automotive analogy.

Blasko, a nationally known speaker and trainer, came to the session armed with a traffic light, traffic cones, a steering wheel and other paraphernalia. He shared two of his six “mile markers” discussed in his book, Cruisin’ Through Life at 35 MPH. The point? You can change yourself and others by following a few simple principles.

First, “Know Your Limits.” Speeding (or going too slow) can have negative outcomes as he entertained the audience with the story of his first speeding ticket. The bottom line is that you have to set the pace in your own life. To be a leader, you can’t be content to let someone else drive. Have the courage and conviction to find your own direction. The advice holds true in both personal and professional endeavors.

As Blasko explained, the more responsibility we take as individuals, the faster we will reach our destinations—and get others to join us on the trip. Negativity is contagious, but so is a positive attitude.

Later, Blasko used nesting traffic cones to illustrate his second mile marker—speed bumps and potholes. All problems start off small—then get bigger and bigger and bigger if they are ignored. Attack problems while they are small and can be easily solved.  Procrastination just lets the problem (pothole) grow until it becomes overwhelming and can swallow you whole.

I’m sure you’re still wondering about my “gas” issue. When your tank is full, Blasko explained, you feel great. Even when the gauge has dipped a bit, things are still good. However, when the red light comes on, panic sets in and you urge your car (fingers crossed) to the filling station.

He encouraged everyone face life “full of gas.” Whether it’s by helping someone else, appreciating a beautiful morning or using your leadership to influence others, you can wake up in the morning, throw your arms out and say, “I’ve got gas!”

Sandra Hoban

Sandra Hoban was on I Advance Senior Care / Long-Term Living’s editorial staff for 17 years. She is one of the country’s longest-serving senior care journalists. Before joining Long-Term Living, she was a member of the promotions department at Advanstar Communications. In addition to her editorial experience, Sandi has served past roles in print and broadcast advertising as a traffic and talent coordinator.