A Leader Among Legends
Mar 23, 2011
From Legacy Moment eNewsletter (03/18/2011)
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Legends of Leadership from "Leave a Legacy TV" allows me untold opportunities to learn from leaders in our industry. In October 2010, I had the opportunity to visit with Carl and Ellen Larson of Fullerton, N. D. Please enjoy the following excerpts from Carl's legends interview.
On developing his sons for leadership: “Starting kids out with responsibilities at an early age helped them grow. When they were in the field doing something, they had to look beyond the stones they were picking up or the field they were cultivating. They had to understand that an investment was being made. They were taught to ask, ‘How is it going to generate results? What’s the payback?' Now they don’t do anything without looking at return.”
On adopting the latest technology: “I’m an early-adapter, so the Internet has become second nature. I got my first computer in 1983. That weekend we had a three-day blizzard here on the farm, so what did I do? I learned how to run a spreadsheet. I don’t know how many I’ve done since, but I know it’s amounted to a significant return for our organizations.”
On maximizing opportunities: “First, I would advise you to surround yourself with people who are like yourself. Mix with successful people, get involved with them. Keep in mind that the venture you sought out may lead to something a whole lot better. There are always opportunities beyond the initial opportunity--they just keep turning up.”
On challenges: “I don’t walk away from challenges. I love a challenge. Getting up in the morning is difficult if you don’t have a goal. I look for opportunities to work on new ventures, expand an existing business and/or work with people who are motivated to create something new.”
News & Resources for You
At an age when some people begin to think about slowing down, Carl Larson is business-focused. He joined us for the
December episode of "Leave a Legacy TV".
