Our Highest Goal

In 2004, Professor Michael Ray, from Stanford University published his wonderful Book, The Highest Goal – The Secret That Sustains You in Every Moment.

This is NOT a book review. This is a story of achievement. You see, I read Michael’s book a number of years ago. It is the book version of his extremely popular and successful course he teaches at Stanford called Personal Creativity in Business.

I feel as if some of the chapter titles alone illustrate the journey that we at Galliard have experienced over the last few years: “Go Beyond Passion and Success”; “Travel Your Own Path”; “Live with the Highest Goal”; “Relate from Your Heart”; “Become a Generative Leader.”

One of the author’s most powerful quotes comes from his opening remarks when he challenges us:

In this time of global transformation, we must act creatively and courageously from our deepest knowing and compassion. Only if we are living in service of the highest goal, in whatever way we experience it, can we meet the challenges of our times and fashion lives that work. And only if we discover ways of translating this highest goal into a new way of living, can it be practical and expansive for all.

Over many years, we at Galliard have purposely developed a new way of working and living that allows us to reflect our highest goal. We have focused on being practical and expansive in our approach and have tried to act creatively and courageously, sharing our knowledge and compassion.

Everyone who joined us in Nashville experienced the impact of this goal. We gathered together, laughed together, learned together and celebrated together. We spent two days dedicated to being in service of each other and of our greater community.
It was thrilling for me to witness the energy of our emerging generation of leaders. It was deeply moving to be able to celebrate the spirit, courage and dedication of two family businesses that have chosen different but equally successful paths to building a strong future. It was a joy to acknowledge a few of our key supporters and our resident princess.

And now, I challenge you. I spent two days with some of the most interesting, engaging, funny, smart and dedicated people that I have ever met. I am honored to work with you and to be part of your circle of friendship and support. So let’s make this thing rock! Let’s create our own shared ‘highest goal’ and work together to change the trajectory of our nation’s economy. I believe that if we can follow the lead of our award winning businesses and our young leaders – stating our intent and bringing our creativity to bear, we can make a tremendous impact. I am energized and excited and looking forward to maintaining the momentum of the last week as we begin to plan for 2016!