Tim Schurrer is the former COO of Donald Miller’s company StoryBrand, and the author of a new book, The Secret Society of Success. He is dedicated to teaching leaders how to stop chasing the spotlight and start redefining success so they can make an impact that goes far beyond themselves.
If you are a leader who is tired of trying to climb the ladder of success, or you’re struggling to figure out your purpose, this episode can help.
Here are some takeaways he shared:
1. When we focus on chasing the spotlight over building relationships, we miss out on the thing that makes people happiest.
Research shows that relationships are what make people happier and healthier throughout their lives. By putting people and relationships first in your organization, you can transform its culture.
Leaders set the tone when it comes to humility, and Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, is a masterclass in how to do it well.
When asked if the Apple Watch launch was his moment, he deflected, saying it was Apple's. This "humble confidence" — knowing your worth but celebrating the team - is key. Just like Zig Ziglar's advice to "help others get what they want," recognizing others builds a collaborative and successful environment.
Here, we believe in shared wins. Shine the light on others, and you'll all shine brighter.
2. If you want to find your purpose, ask yourself, “Who am I here for?”
When we commit to investing in the people around us, everyone wins, including your organization.
Forget the hero complex. The purpose is found in serving others. Leaders cast a long shadow, so let it be one of service. Instead of asking ‘What's in it for me?’ ask ‘Who am I here for?’
Invest in your team, empower them and become their champion. Think facilitator—not ruler. This builds a culture of support, fuels success and makes everyone shine brighter.
3. Recognition isn’t bad, but an unhealthy desire for it is.
It’s possible — but difficult — to become very successful without allowing your ego and self-worth to become tied up in the amount of credit you receive.
There's a place for recognition, but an obsession with it can be a creativity killer. It's called the spotlight mindset, and it ties your self-worth to external validation.
The good news? Massive success is possible without needing constant applause. Focus on the contribution, not the credit. Your value shines brightest when you're lifting others up.
This week, Tim Schurrer is generously giving away the first three chapters of his book The Secret Society of Success.
Check it out and then ask yourself these questions to reflect on how you can continue to build success:
How do you define success at work, and how do you define it in other areas of your life?
Just like Tim’s example of learning about humility from Tim Cook, are there leaders who inspire you to put others first? What have you learned from them?
What is one small change you can make today to start prioritizing relationships in the workplace?
Of the three desires Tim talked about — credit, recognition and influence — which one do you find yourself wanting the most?