Since Muhammad Ali died till the time of his funeral last Friday, thousands of people around the world shared their memories of the “Greatest” boxer of all time. News organizations and sports stations showed non-stop videos of the man and his mission.

“I am the greatest. I said that even before I knew I was. I figured that if I said it enough, I would convince the world that I really was the greatest.” ~Ali~

There have been many famous people die in my lifetime, but no one’s passing, outside of my mom and dad, has had a more profound effect on my life. At first I was puzzled by the impact, but then it became crystal clear. Ali was a fighter and I’m not. He had the courage to tell other people about what he valued, and he fought for those beliefs in and out of the ring. He also got back up every time he got knocked down by a punch or Parkinson’s. I have strong beliefs but I don’t fight for mine like he fought for his. Most of the people in my world don’t even know what I do for a living.

I’m not talking about physically fighting. I have never nor will I ever support violence. However, there is another definition of the word fight that should be important to every leader, and that is to strive vigorously for something that is important to you.

Whether you agree or disagree with why or how Ali fought, most people respect the fact he stood up for his beliefs. He was admired for the way he prepared to win his battles.

“I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.'” ~Ali~

What is so important to you that you are willing to fight for it…every day? What goals mean so much to you that you are willing to get back up every time life knocks you down?

Are you a great lawyer, accountant or banker? Are you great at business development, leading a team or running a company? Are you a parent trying to raise great kids? Are you working to be better today than you were yesterday? Will you be better tomorrow than you are today?

“Champions aren’t made in gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them — a desire, a dream, a vision. They have to have last-minute stamina, they have to be a little faster, they have to have the skill and the will. But the will must be stronger than the skill.” ~Ali~

I believe that each of us is on a mission from God to use our unique talents and strengths to serve others in a remarkable way. While everyone’s mission is different, we all have the opportunity and responsibility to clarify our purpose and make sure that our words and actions are consistent with that vision.

In case you didn’t know…I provide coaching and mentoring to successful professionals who are interested in developing the positive habits and systems required to create better relationships and results in all areas of their life. The leaders I work with also want to create a positive culture that brings out the best in their co-workers, clients, family and friends. If you have some relationships you want to improve or results you want to achieve, I can help you reach your goals. Contact me next week so we can arrange a time for us to talk.

For the record…outside of some public seminars, this is the first time in over 30 years I’ve asked anyone for their business. I used to pride myself in the fact that all my clients came from referrals and word of mouth. Now I feel like I should be apologizing to anyone who could have benefited from my help but I was not willing to fight for your business. I promise to never let that happen again.

Who could benefit by knowing more about what you do and how you do it? Is it time for you to start fighting more for the people you want to serve and influence?

“He who is not courageous enough to take risks will accomplish nothing in life.” ~Ali~

We all know at some point we’re going to die and at our funeral we will be remembered for something. The only question is…are you willing to live the rest of your life so that what others say at your service is what you want said?

“Don’t count the days; make the days count.” ~Ali~

Let’s Get Better. Together! Bill Durkin