Tao Li And The Epitome Of Selfishness?

Jan.28, 2008 in Rules of Living, Team Productivity

I read in the news today (Straits Times, January 28 2008) regarding Tao Li’s response to her “tax” money. Well, as it seems, there is not much wisdom in the young lass’s words even though she’s produced a lot of results from a medal standpoint.

It reminds me of times when my partners and I wonder if we should hire talent or hire heart. Often, talent loses out. No matter how smart you are, nobody really truly cares. Unfortunately, in a country like ours where talent is extremely important, we often have to choose the quick and rapid option for progress.

If you have determination and enthusiasm, these are success ingredients. Whatever you do, never lose sight on the need to develop your strength of character.

Still, I would question anyone who is unwilling to help youth. For instance, www.SuperTelethon.org was created for helping youth - even though I wasn’t taxed! Will all young and new, wealthy people start to point their noses in the air simply because of one achievement? Well, first of all, I also contribute a substantial amount of income tax to IRAS, so somewhere along the line, I’m still paying for the country, their sports investments and other infrastructure.

The shortest route to fading is not that you’ve outlived your time. But that your time was outlived by a stupid remark on national TV or the press. You don’t win all the medals for your team. You don’t score all the points for your class. Everyone is in the same race in the same boat if you’re in the same country. A great coach, Ken Carter, who was the focus in the show “Coach Carter” had this to say in the movie. “We’re a team. When one struggles we all struggle. When one triumphs we all triumph.” So there’s no sense just balancing how many successes you’ve earned for yourself. You’ll need to balance this off with the kind of courage you show in adversity for others.

All for one, one for all! ;)