First Person: Living Out Loud!

Editor’s note: Many don’t know that Nisus’ Harry Bryan has a serious hearing loss in both ears. In this guest editorial, he shares how he’s overcome this disability and six life lessons.

When I was 6, my parents were motivated to help me succeed after an audiologist told them I would have difficulty achieving success in life due to my hearing loss. My mother read stories to me every night and asked questions about the characters or theme. I would recite the stories and respond with answers to her questions. Mom was teaching me to listen and communicate. Dad would drive me to my speech and hearing sessions several times every month and provide ongoing encouragement to overcome the obstacles. At the time, it was difficult to understand, but these were the foundation blocks for who I am today. Throughout the years, I’ve cataloged thousands of experiences and lessons from living on the road and interactions with people. Here are six big takeaways:

1. “Embrace the struggle.”

Without the struggle, success has no value. Thirty-six years ago, I began my sales career working for a food distribution company on 100% commission. I learned quickly that if I didn’t close the sale, there would be no food on the table for my young family. It was my sales manager who challenged me to be better and I took it to heart. I caught a huge break when a big prospect threw me a bone. I finally turned a corner and began to build the business one sale at a time, every day of every week. You become a success by what you do every day, not by what you do occasionally. Whatever your goals, stay focused on them but don’t fall in love with the plan. Be flexible to change and embrace it as part of the struggle.

2. “Tell the story.”

An important lesson I’ve learned over the years is the power of storytelling which has defined my professional career. It’s never been about the sale; it’s always been about the story. People love stories — especially those of overcoming adversity, rags to riches, or personable humorous events. A good story will launch a new product, build a business or change a life. I’ve been fortunate to present more than 1,000 seminars across the United States and with every session there is a story component that builds an interpersonal connection that becomes the backbone of personal and business relationships alike.

3. “If you think something nice about someone, please tell them.” 

This is something I try to do every day with a random text or phone call to a friend or customer. I’m reminded of a quote from a favorite book of mine, “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” by Dale Carnegie: “Never forget that all our associates are human beings and hunger for appreciation. Try leaving a friendly trail of sparks of gratitude on your daily trips.”

Strive to be the light to someone. You may be their only sliver of sunshine on a cloudy day.

4. “The Trifecta of Life: Trust, Integrity and Confidence.”

People you interact with will subconsciously check these boxes. These three are my absolutes. Non-negotiable.

5. “The comfort zone is not your friend.”

The comfort zone is seductive and masquerades as no risk. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable. You’ll experience the positive impact it’ll have on your life. It’ll enhance relationships with family, friends and new people. You’ll live a more active lifestyle and boost your happiness.

6. “Take time to rock on the front porch.”

Take time to get to know someone. No matter what you do for a living or aspire to become, building relationships with people is the key to long-term success.

Much of what I’ve learned in my professional career trumps anything college professors teach. I’m grateful for the industry I serve and for what I do. The country singer Alan Jackson sings it best:

“The older I get, the more thankful I feel for the life I’ve had and all the life I’m living still.” Peace and love to all!