10.13.2014 Interview with Jim Morris
What is the message you hope people take away from your presentations?
I want people to walk away knowing that anything is possible. No matter what obstacles we face, we can overcome and persevere.
How are your keynotes unique?
My keynotes are unique because I do not put myself above anyone. I am one of them. I converse with the audience instead of speaking down to them. I take people up and down emotionally and send them away knowing and feeling that anything and everything can be accomplished, no matter the obstacles.
Who or what is your biggest source of inspiration?
My grandfather Ernest is my biggest source of inspiration. He is the major component of the 1st third of my speech. The lessons he taught me are invaluable, not only to business people, but to every person: Respect, character, discipline, honesty and grace are all representations of my grandfather.
Why do you believe it is important to be able to laugh at yourself?
We need to laugh at ourselves for several reasons:
- 1) So we can remember that we are not the center of the universe
- 2) So that we do not take ourselves too seriously
- 3) Because we are going to make mistakes and, if you can laugh about it and move on, we are more productive and well rounded.
What is your best advice for effective leadership?
Surrounding yourself with really good people, who are like minded, is great for business people. Keeping your life balanced between business and the rest of your life will make you more productive in business. The lessons my grandfather taught me are (see #3) are also great for effective leadership.
What do you feel that others can learn from your life story?
Dreams are possible, no matter how unlikely others see it. No one believed in me other than my high school students.