Ever wondered how true leadership can revolutionize workplaces and lives? How did Thomas Derale's unique approach to leadership, underpinned by empathy and the alignment of personal and professional goals, lead to extraordinary success? Ever heard about the life-changing concept of Big Five for Life? Dive into this fictional story of a man who, despite battling a terminal illness, continued to inspire and influence all those around him, leaving a legacy that transcends dimensions of work and life.

The Big Five for Life

Joe set his backpack down, admiring the breathtaking view from the mountain peak. The climb had been tough, but the Australian backpackers' recommendation proved worthwhile. As he took a drink from his water bottle, he thought about his friend Thomas, who had been on his mind all morning. Something significant must be happening with Thomas and Maggie.

Meanwhile, Maggie received a devastating call from the doctor's office while her husband Thomas slept. Holding back tears, she learned that Thomas's condition was confirmed: he had a brain tumor and was dying. Determined to stay strong, she reached out to Kerry to push forward their plans.

Joe hurried to an internet café to check his email, suspecting that Thomas had important news. His heart sank as he read Maggie's message: "Thomas is sick, please call." Joe immediately called Maggie, only to learn the heartbreaking truth. He decided to return to the United States to be with Thomas.

On the flight back, Joe met Sonia, who noticed his distress. He explained his friend's situation and recounted how he met Thomas, who had asked him a peculiar question about a "museum day morning." This question led to a profound conversation about how every day of one's life could be cataloged in a personal museum, reflecting how they truly lived.

Thomas's philosophy extended to his leadership style. He believed in aligning personal and corporate purposes, creating a culture where everyone worked together towards a common goal. This approach brought him remarkable success and deep connections with those around him.

Joe shared Thomas's inspiring leadership video with Sonia, offering a glimpse into Thomas's unique perspective on life and business. As they watched, Sonia was captivated by Thomas's belief in living with purpose and creating meaningful connections. It was clear why Joe admired him so much.

Thomas's impact on those he met was undeniable, and his legacy of living with purpose continued to inspire even in the face of his illness. Joe was determined to be there for his friend, knowing that their bond and Thomas's wisdom would guide him through the challenging times ahead.

Can Thomas's Inspirational Legacy Outshine His Tragic Diagnosis?

Joe paused the video on his iPhone and looked at Sonia. She took a long sip of water and smiled at him. “Not at all, that was amazing!” she said. “I've learned more in the last thirty minutes than I did in three days at a leadership summit in Barcelona.”

Intrigued, Sonia asked about Thomas and his ideas. Joe explained that Thomas was a relentless learner who implemented effective strategies from other companies. One of his key philosophies was ensuring that his employees only worked on tasks that fulfilled them. He borrowed an idea from Disney, where employees are considered “cast members” to enhance their work experience. Similarly, Thomas called his employees “fellow travelers” to create a positive and fulfilling work environment.

Sonia was skeptical but curious about the impact on productivity. Joe shared that Thomas’s approach led to higher productivity and lower attrition rates. By focusing on aligning employees' tasks with their Purpose For Existing (PFE) and Big Five for Life, Thomas created a motivated and committed workforce. This resulted in significant profit growth and reduced employee turnover.

Sonia was eager for proof, so Joe dived into statistics and examples. A study by Cornell University and the Gevity Institute showed that companies hiring based on cultural fit, allowing employee autonomy, and fostering a family-like environment experienced higher sales and profit growth, and lower attrition.

He then shared a personal anecdote about how Thomas introduced him to Katie, a passionate zoo worker. Her dedication to her work and the zoo’s PFE exemplified Thomas’s philosophy. Her enthusiasm and the zoo’s transformation inspired Joe to pursue work that truly fulfills him.

Sonia, visibly impressed, asked how Joe knew all this. He explained about “Fulfill U,” a biannual event where Thomas’s new employees, partners, and customers learn about his philosophies and join him on his journey.

As they concluded, Sonia looked at Joe with newfound appreciation. “Joe, what you just shared isn’t everyday stuff. Thank you for the enlightening conversation.”

Joe smiled, glad to have ignited a spark of inspiration in Sonia, just as Thomas and Katie had done for him.

From Leadership Summits to Disney: How Thomas Revolutionized Workplace Fulfillment

Sonia leaned in, eager to hear about the "Big Five for Life." Joe chuckled, "Let's get to that part."

Katie and Joe were at the zoo, watching young gorillas tussle. She compared them to her brothers. Then, she explained the "Big Five for Life" concept Thomas had taught her, something he lived by. Katie met Thomas years ago at a science fair. He praised her project on human-animal interaction and asked what she wanted to do with her life. Unsure, she was inspired when Thomas countered everyone's doubts about her passion for animals with, "They're wrong."

Thomas introduced her to life-changing books about Jane Goodall and a young man’s journey across Africa, both centered on following one's passion without formal constraints. They shaped her path, and she emphasized the lesson from one book: defining personal success through one’s own "Big Five for Life"—five things you aim to achieve before you die. Thomas extended this concept at his companies, ensuring employees aligned their work with their personal Big Five, fostering motivation and productivity.

Katie adopted this strategy at her zoo, ensuring projects met their "Purpose For Existing" and Big Five goals. Her implementation of these principles ensured her projects stayed on track.

Katie's directness struck Joe regarding his own lack of direction. She challenged him to find his Purpose and Big Five, warning of a life lacking fulfillment if he didn’t. Her words echoed as Joe pondered his own purpose. Inspired, he later crafted his Big Five, filling his calendar with meaning.

On a flight, Joe shared his transformation with Sonia, intrigued by how Thomas influenced lives. She decided to reflect on her own Big Five. Meanwhile, Thomas's health was failing. Despite his condition, his leadership wisdom, likened to nurturing papaya trees, resonated. Great leaders cultivate environments where people thrive together, not in competition.

Thomas and Joe agreed to face his illness with humor and positivity. His papaya tree analogy became a powerful metaphor for his leadership legacy, one Joe promised to carry forward. His teachings, embodied in the Big Five for Life, continued to inspire, even as his time waned, leaving an enduring impact on everyone he touched.

Is Big Five for Life the Secret to Living a Fulfilled and Purposeful Life?

Joe came down the stairs early, unable to sleep. Staying with Thomas and Maggie was usually filled with laughter, but this visit was different. Joe walked through the kitchen and saw them on the patio, holding hands and laughing. Maggie invited Joe to join them. Their backyard, filled with colorful flowers and ancient oak trees, was serene. 

Thomas joked about his power naps and offered Joe a blueberry muffin from a basket Josephine, their Director of First Impressions, had brought over. Josephine had been bringing baked goods ever since Thomas's diagnosis. Despite his wealth, the people in his companies sent him home-cooked meals, showing the deep respect they had for him.

Joe reminisced about the first time he visited Thomas's office. He had met Josephine, who thought Joe was crazy for not knowing Thomas owned the building and several companies. It was a humbling experience that revealed Thomas's modesty.

Thomas shared his belief in the importance of a Director of First Impressions. He recounted a story of losing multimillion-dollar deals due to poor initial interactions. He emphasized that relationships and first impressions could make or break a company.

Later, Maggie joined Joe on the patio. She confided in him about Thomas's declining health, and how much Joe's presence lifted his spirits. Despite his efforts, his energy was fading fast.

In Thomas's office, Joe found a stack of turquoise blue Post-it notes with his personal motto, "Your fellow traveler on this amazing journey." These notes had become a cherished part of the company culture, connecting Thomas with his employees.

Joe read an article Thomas co-authored, which outlined steps to boost profits by focusing on existing customers rather than acquiring new ones. He also wrote about attracting the best people and customers by having a clear Purpose For Existing (PFE) and living it.

Thomas entered the office, joking about his cane. He and Joe discussed the importance of sharing knowledge and the impact it could have even after he's gone.

Reflecting on their earlier conversations, Thomas had always emphasized living life to the fullest. He believed in creating an environment where people could succeed and fulfill their personal dreams, like traveling the world. His companies even had a travel office to help employees achieve their dream trips, making them better employees and happier individuals.

Thomas's philosophy was that leadership is not just about business but about life. Energized people are productive, while burned-out people quit. His goal was to have fulfilled employees who were motivated and inspired every day.

Seeing the Big Five for Life travel wall, filled with photos of employees' trips, reminded Joe of the importance of living a fulfilling life. Thomas's leadership was about creating an environment where people felt valued and inspired, ensuring their work was more than just a job but a part of their life's success.

Thomas's Legacy: Leadership, Laughter, and Lifelong Lessons

Three weeks into staying with Maggie and Thomas, a phone call from Cindy Ronker led to an exciting opportunity. Despite Thomas’s declining health, he decided to attend and participate in a Make Me Better (MMB) meeting, which he had invented. The meeting was a chance to brainstorm and improve a new business idea. Thomas, Joe, and Sonia, a woman Joe had met on a plane, arrived at the venue where the energy was palpable. It was a lively gathering, with everyone eager to contribute.

Thomas’s leadership had fostered a culture where collaboration thrived. People weren’t just employees; they were fellow travelers on a shared journey. The MMB process was designed to refine ideas while avoiding negativity. The presenter, a young director, laid out his concept, and the group eagerly jumped in to enhance it. Ideas flew, problems were solved, and potential partnerships were formed, all with a sense of camaraderie and purpose.

After the meeting, the trio left, reflecting on the unique and supportive environment Thomas had created. Sonia was struck by the cooperative spirit and how different it was from her own workplace. Thomas explained his philosophy: successful leaders understand they’re in the business of life, not just business.

However, the night took a sudden turn when Thomas experienced a severe seizure. Joe and Sonia rushed him to the hospital. Maggie arrived soon after, and the reality of Thomas’s condition hit hard. Despite the sadness, Maggie shared Thomas’s pride in the people he had inspired and the fulfilling lives they led.

Back at the house, Joe pondered the meaning of it all. For Thomas, life had been purposeful, aligned with his Big Five for Life and his Purpose For Existing. He had truly lived, and Joe wondered how many others could say the same.

How Did Thomas's 'Make Me Better' Meeting Inspire a Culture of Collaboration Despite His Health Struggles?

Joe woke up late, went for a run, and returned to find Thomas and Maggie back from the hospital. Thomas, already on a business call, invited Joe to join him. He proposed spending time at the CBS building for an interview with Mark Whitley from "The Business of Business" about leadership in the twenty-first century. Joe agreed.

The next morning, they met Mark at the studio. Despite his health, Thomas was ready to dive into the interview. Mark began with tough questions about Thomas's leadership style, which some critics called radical. Thomas responded confidently, sharing the success of his companies and emphasizing that profits come from people. He revealed his secret: aligning work with personal fulfillment, hiring people who love their jobs, and ensuring that everyone’s goals align with the company’s vision.

As the interview continued, Thomas elaborated on his Big Five for Life philosophy, hiring people whose job responsibilities align with their personal goals. He believed this approach led to higher productivity and profits. Mark, intrigued, asked about the feasibility of this method for all leaders. Thomas replied that it doesn’t matter if it works for everyone; what matters is if it works for their specific team or company.

Thomas shared five steps to motivate people: 
1. Clearly articulate goals, 
2. Involve people in finding solutions, 
3. Explain the rules, 
4. Link personal and organizational goals, and 
5. Move non-fit individuals off the team. 
He stressed that these steps, while seemingly basic, are often overlooked by leaders.

In the second part of the interview, Thomas discussed business practices like maintaining high standards and turning away clients if they couldn’t deliver the best service. He believed in standing out by doing what they promise. Thomas also emphasized learning from successful companies, not focusing on those that fail. He shared that leadership flows downhill, and successful companies are built on leaders passionate about their work.

To close, Thomas offered quick leadership tips: invite people in, eliminate time-consuming tasks, see things from the customer’s perspective, and lead fearlessly. He explained that great leaders teach others, work smarter, and focus on effective results rather than longer hours.

Thomas's insights into leadership and business practices were enlightening to Joe, demonstrating how focusing on people and aligning personal and organizational goals can lead to tremendous success.

Leadership Secrets Unveiled: Thomas's Revolutionary Approach in The Business of Business Interview

Thomas Derale was not just a leader but an inspiration to those around him. Upon returning home from the studio, his wife Maggie greeted him with love and support, a testament to their strong bond. Thomas, who had taped two successful TV shows, was soon informed that due to overwhelming viewer response, his third appearance would be broadcast live—a first for the show outside its usual New York setting.

The live interview delved into Thomas's defining moments in leadership. He recounted his early career under a tyrannical boss, Walter, whose oppressive style taught Thomas what not to do. This experience revealed that poor leadership is detrimental to employee morale and company profitability. Thomas also spoke about the positive ripple effect of fulfilling one's purpose, using Oprah Winfrey's inspiration from Diana Ross as an example.

In a poignant revelation, Thomas shared his philosophy of writing the ending first in life and business. He recounted a transformative moment from a world trip with Maggie, realizing he'd lived a fulfilling life. This mindset guided him to create meaningful experiences and relationships.

During his final TV appearance, Thomas disclosed his terminal condition, leaving viewers with powerful insights on leadership and purpose. His story touched many, and after the broadcast, thousands sought to join his company or do business with him.

Thomas's impact was celebrated with a surprise event at his company. Surrounded by employees, partners, and clients, he was honored for inspiring others to live their best lives. The newly unveiled museum dedicated to his life showcased his philosophies and achievements.

As Thomas toured the museum, he left a final message of love for his colleagues. Shortly after, he passed away, leaving a legacy of leadership and friendship. His story, detailed in a posthumously delivered book, continues to inspire those who seek purpose and fulfillment in their lives.

How Did Thomas Derale's Leadership Philosophy Transform Lives and Inspire a Legacy?

Joe stood at the mountain peak, exhausted but exhilarated. The climb had been tough, but the view was worth it. As he sipped his water, his thoughts drifted to his friend Thomas, sensing something significant was happening with him and Maggie.

Maggie, meanwhile, received a devastating call confirming Thomas had a brain tumor. Determined to stay strong, she reached out to Joe, urging him to come home.

Rushing to an internet café, Joe read Maggie's message and immediately booked a flight back to the States. On the plane, he met Sonia, sharing Thomas's inspiring philosophy about living life with purpose, which deeply resonated with her.

Thomas believed in aligning personal and corporate goals, creating a culture of shared purpose. His leadership style brought him success and deep connections. Joe showed Sonia a video of Thomas's unique perspective, captivating her with his belief in meaningful work.

Thomas's legacy continued to inspire even as his health declined. Joe returned to support his friend, knowing Thomas's wisdom would guide him through tough times.

At Thomas's home, Joe found solace in the backyard's serenity, recalling the first time he met Josephine, the Director of First Impressions. Thomas emphasized the importance of initial interactions, shaping company culture and relationships.

Thomas's Big Five for Life philosophy, ensuring employees' tasks align with their personal goals, led to higher productivity and reduced turnover. Joe shared how this approach transformed his own life, filling his days with meaning.

During a Make Me Better meeting, Thomas's collaborative spirit shone through, fostering a supportive environment. Despite his condition, Thomas remained committed to his purpose, inspiring those around him.

An interview with Mark Whitley revealed Thomas's radical yet successful leadership style, focusing on aligning work with personal fulfillment. His insights on motivating people and maintaining high standards demonstrated the power of purpose-driven leadership.

Thomas's final TV appearance touched many, revealing his terminal condition and reinforcing his philosophy of living life to the fullest. His legacy was celebrated with a surprise event, honoring his impact on others.

Thomas's story, shared in a posthumous book, continues to inspire those seeking purpose and fulfillment, reminding us that great leaders cultivate environments where people thrive together.

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The Big Five for Life

John P. Strelecky

8 Key ideas

22 MINS

4.5 (931)

Ever wondered how true leadership can revolutionize workplaces and lives?

How did Thomas Derale's unique approach to leadership, underpinned by empathy and the alignment of personal and professional goals, lead to extraordinary success?

Ever heard about the life-changing concept of Big Five for Life?

Dive into this fictional story of a man who, despite battling a terminal illness, continued to inspire and influence all those around him, leaving a legacy that transcends dimensions of work and life.

Key Ideas

#1