I didn't get the opportunity to speak with many of them, but I was given permission from all of their gatekeepers to send a copy.

Of course, I accompanied the book with a hand-written letter. I now have a stack of notes from CEOs across the country thanking me.

I, like them, appreciate the effort. It is the little things in life that set each of us apart from our peers and from our competition.

I guess I could brag about some of the stuff that I've done, like living in a tent in Alaska or living with the Samburu tribes-men of east Africa. Nah. That stuff isn't important now.

I would rather show people how important they are. I show employees and customers how important they are by putting my best effort forward. I usually put them first, if I can.

Do I stumble and fall sometimes? You bet. We all do. I'm just an average Joe like everyone else.

But I have never, ever had anyone say that it was a waste of time sending a note of appreciation.

In business, like life, treat people the way you would like to be treated - pure and very simple.

In fact, a friend who is a business associate actually made the suggestion for this article, and I thought it was a great idea. I'll take her to lunch-after I first write her a thank-you note.

 

The toilet snorkel was invented in 1982.

"Silly me I have been using the snorkel in the tub this whole time." ----Sonny

The wristwatch was invented in 1904 by Louis Cartier.

'But wht have you done for me lately." - Sonny