We all want to accomplish the big dreams and big goals we set for ourselves.

And yet, I’ve found over the years that most of us don’t think big enough. When we think too small in goal setting or visions for our future, we usually end up right where we started.

It’s by thinking big that you begin to act big. And when you act big, you become big.

But what do you do if you’ve got big dreams, but right now, the work you’re doing does not line up with the big vision you have for your future?

How do you work your way up to the top?

The key – that most people don’t even stop to consider – is serving your way up to the top.

Taking time to serve others is ultimately what will take you higher. You’ll not only go farther, but you’ll also be more fulfilled if service is an integral part of your journey.

Some people go through their careers with the attitude, “That’s not in my job description. Somebody else can take care of it.”  If that’s your attitude, you’ll never reach the heights that you’re capable of reaching.

As you go through your career, it’s important to ask the question… “Am I doing service for others outside of my job description?”

Start Serving Now

You know the old expression, “Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.” It’s true not just for your wardrobe, but also your attitude.

Too many people are waiting for that “big break” or for things to go their way before they step up their game. Instead, think about what you can do to give a “big break” to the young person starting out in your industry, the family in need, or the friend who is ill.

Don’t wait for the promotion to be the best version of yourself. Be that version today.

By excelling where you are right now, even if it’s not where you want to be, you’re taking the steps to work your way up.

I’ll share an example that happened recently. Leading up to Mother’s Day, I chaired a service project for mothers and their kids at a children’s shelter here in the Atlanta suburbs. Many of us worked hard leading up to and during the event, but it was worth it for the families we were serving. Well the CEO of the shelter nonprofit said to me, “I’m going to the Impact Awards luncheon tomorrow. Would you like to come as my guest and sit at our table?”

Now, I knew I would be exhausted the next day. But how could I say no to an opportunity like that? And sitting at that table at lunch the next day was a group of high level business executives who are each well known in the Atlanta area. And not only did they want to hear about our work on the service project, but also they wanted to know about my work as a consultant and corporate trainer.

I had no way of knowing going into this service project that it would open doors for me professionally. But had I not diligently put in the time and effort, that opportunity never would have presented itself.

It’s Not About Getting Credit

“Be so busy giving recognition to others that you don’t need it yourself.” – Celeste Giordano

You might not get a thank you for serving other people. Let that roll off your back.

If what you’re doing seems small or insignificant, remember that by taking those small steps, it might not feel like it, but you’re getting one step closer to your goals. You don’t know where that next small step will take you. Keep doing an excellent job serving right where you are and doors will open for you.

Joel Osteen says, “Success is not an elevator. It’s a set of stairs.”

Maybe you want to start your own business someday, but today you’re working for someone else. Do your best to serve them and their vision each and every day. Before you can ask others to serve you, you’ve got to find out what it means to serve others.

If you are an entrepreneur, and you want to grow your business, get your mind off you and your needs, and shift your focus onto what others need from you. Small acts of service lead to big things.

Here are my tips for putting service into action:

• Go to work with a positive attitude every day – regardless of your circumstances.

• Keep showing up to serve other people, even if you don’t get credit for it.

• Ask yourself: Am I just doing what’s required? Or am I going the extra mile? Am I thinking big so I can act big? If so, your results will be big too.

• Don’t overlook the power of service because time spent serving others is never wasted.

I’d love to see YOU soon! In just a few weeks, I’ll be in Malibu, CA, May 31 – June 2 for the Rockin’ Your Soul Retreat hosted by my colleague, Michal Mael. This is going to be a unique opportunity to grow your business from the inside out. If you wonder what your business is missing, you’ve got to find out more about this exclusive experience you won’t get anywhere else. Find out more now.

If you’re frustrated with your lack of professional growth, contact me today to find out how to take your business to the next level without sacrificing what’s important to you like faith, family, and service.

Use the code GIORDANO for a 10% Discount!

VOLUME II is now available with new trackers, quotes, and graphics!

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Celeste Giordano’s mission is to help business owners develop the skills, knowledge and attitude necessary to “DoublePlus^TM” their income and become effective and inspirational leaders in their fields. Whether it’s taking your successful business to the next level or starting a new venture, she will teach you the exact skills and strategies you need to enroll more quality prospects, build a rock-solid team, and break through obstacles to achieve real profit and lasting success. Celeste is a professional business growth specialist, a master sales strategist, and dynamic speaker with 40 years experience in direct sales and managing high-performing teams.

To learn more about Celeste, click here.

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