Without doubt stories have the ability to weave a certain magic on audiences – recently I was in the presence of an eighty year old gentleman who reminded me that years ago you had to pay to participate in sports events!
Tom was a high jumper in fifties and sixties and he spoke of the need for some “strategic thinking” on when to enter the event.
“I used to wait until everyone had jumped to their limit and then I would pay my entrance fee and jump to victory!”
Imagine if for a day the clock was turned back, and all professional athletes from all codes had to pay to perform?

Later that day I went for my usual coffee break in the local village. That day the very talented Daniel Day Lewis was in town and enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the West of Ireland. One of the staff reminded him of his last order when he visited three years previously. I couldn’t but think of how impressive it would be if every customer’s order was remembered with such accuracy – you would definately be in exceptional service territory. The moral of the story – treat every customer like a superstar and see what happens!
And finally watched the post match interviews of some of the defeated managers and players in the World Cup – unfortunately a significant theme running through most – “it wasnt my fault!” ( Couldn’t but think of some famous politicians and others that shared this pattern.)
Has the era of personal responsibility passed …or did it ever truly begin?