Patrick Miller

While I am a working man; there is a lot more to me that who I am in the business world. I am a husband, a father, a friend, a neighbor and a Child of God. I have learned through the experiences in my life; that a true measure of success is maximizing the contribution and impact you can have right where you are. Wealth helps; but the most important ingredient - is how I use my time, talent and wealth to make life better for my family and community.

I know that sounds lofty; but I am not talking about dreams of grandeur or some utopian goal. I am saying that if every person in our society would simply take the time to apply a "Servant Leadership" mentality to their everyday life; our homes, schools, neighborhoods, communities - our nation would turn toward peace and prosperity faster than any government program could provide. It does not matter how small or big your circle of influence is – you can have an impact and be a game-changer for someone or many.

I began volunteering in my local community at the age of 14. However, by the time I was in my late twenties; my career was in full swing and I became so busy that taking time to work with and care for my neighbor simply took a back seat. This was not a conscious behavior, but rather one that I gradually slipped into. The turbulence of the recession since early 2008 has afforded me a much need re-evaluation of priorities.

In mid 2008, I drew a line in the sand and made a commitment that my focus was going to shift away from myself and toward others; beginning with my family and ultimately would extend to my community. I began looking for opportunities to support the needs and efforts of people around me. I found opportunities to help folks everywhere and in places I never before recognized. I soon realized that making the same change in how I approach my customers and colleagues could have professional benefits. Over the last six years I have devoted countless hours to volunteering for community and business groups, trade associations and conferences. The results have been nothing short of amazing. The time I invested resulted in an explosion in my business and some of the most satisfying relationships I've ever had.

So; don't wait for someone else to act. Don't wait for a government bailout, or a change in the market. Get out there and be the change your community needs. We are not helpless – we are not hopeless. We are the leadership that is needed!