A colleague sent me this meme yesterday. It’s labeled simply – “Three Simple Rules in Life”

1. If you don’t ever GO after what you want in life, you will never have it.

2. If you don’t ever ASK, the answer will always be NO.

3. If you do not step forward, you will always be in the same place.

One of the goals I have for all teammates in our enterprise is that we make a difference. Not just a difference at work, but a difference wherever you go. I call that PalletOne leaders “happening to the world.”

My hope is that our culture teaches every one of us the importance of leadership and action. As we learn of the impact of leadership and action, that we can become great contributors when we see leadership in action and, when leadership isn’t apparent and it’s needed, that we step up to the task.

Thus, the “simple rules” that my colleague sent along resonated with me. They are rules that someone who “happens” to the world knows and uses.

Determining what you want at any point in time is one of the primary actions that adds purpose to our lives. Until we do that we drift. When we know what we want, we can “go” for it with zeal.

People who “happen” to the world don’t suffer in silence. They let their observations be known. They “ask” for help. They “ask” for opportunity. They “ask” for resources. They “ask” for information. They ask “why”. Remaining silent about obstacles and opportunities means that there is “no” progress.

Thus, people who “happen” to the world step forward. They understand nothing good happens when everyone stays idle. They bring the “juice” by stepping forward. Their initiative, their courage, their resourcefulness inspires all around them. Those who step forward to lead or follow leadership are builders.

If you wonder how you can be more effective at “happening to the world”, these simple rules are a good place to start. “Go”.  “Ask”. “Step forward”.