Southwestern Sales Talk

I consider myself a documentary aficionado.  I watch them all the time – regardless of the subject and it is probably my favorite genre of film.  This last weekend I found myself in utter amazement watching Ultramarathon Man. 

For those of you, like me, who were out of loop – Ultramarathon Man follows Dean Karnazes on his goal to run 50 marathons, in all 50 states, in 50 days.  You read that correctly.  50/50/50.  I couldn’t believe the goal, much less the fact that anyone was in the conditioning to complete such a task.  His goal was to finish this unbelievable achievement to raise awareness for youth obesity and to get America active. 

Dean starts his journey with the Lewis and Clark Marathon in St. Louis and never stops from there.  While watching this film, I couldn’t believe how effortless Dean made this look!  He just runs nonstop.  It’s captivating how relaxed and affable he is throughout the entire movie.  Every city he ran in, he had what looked like 5 to 50 people show up and run the distance with him.  It was astonishing how many people he inspired. 

Dean set the bar for human endurance by finishing his goal of 50/50/50 by running the New York City Marathon on the official day of the race and finished in 3 hours and 30 seconds.  He overcame physical hurdles and logistical problems to finish what he started as a champion. 

While watching this movie I kept thinking of the similarities to the Southwestern Company and the philosophies we teach.  Dean set a goal, trained hard to reach that goal, and then finished strong.  Admittedly, the average bookman/woman doesn’t run 50 marathons consecutively but there is comparison that can be made to a Southwestern summer. 

I mentioned Dean Karnazes and this film to one of our Directors Chris Adams.  He excitedly told me that he actively uses one of Dean’s books as inspiration for his organization during the summer.  One of his Slovakian Sales Managers (and a exceptional runner himself) Mike Ulicny initially told Chris about Dean and his outstanding accomplishments. 

What about you?  Have you seen Ultramarathon Man or read any of Dean Karnazes books?  What philosophies or life lessons can you take from his remarkable story and apply to your everyday life?  This may be a great  source if you look for inspirational material for your sales organization.  I’m looking forward to reading your thoughts!

1 comment so far