Are you stricken by PAS? Pompous Ass Syndrome? Read this article, Distinguished doctor charged with stealing candy at Stamford theater, and come back to see if you or someone you know has it.
There is really no room in a business for PAS. In fact, life is too short in all aspects to deal with folks who are stricken with PAS. Hopefully they will recognize it, or someone will share this article with them and they will take control and begin corrective remedies.
Recently a very successful entrepreneur and good friend of mine shared a story with me about how great Seth Godin is live. While we were speaking she said, “OMG, Mitch you would love him, he is so down to earth and available, you know he is not at all pompous like some folks get…”
What does this mean exactly – like some folks get? Here is the thing and it is so important it must be said: We are all unique and have great gifts. The fact that some have achieved notoriety, fame, and monetary rewards does not make them rise above the human race. It is when they begin to behave in such a way, as if they have risen above the human race, that we must really consider why we should have anything at all to do with them.
This is one reason why taking the time, right in the beginning, to create in writing, your business strategy is so important. This is not your financial plan or your business plan, although they may be included. It is where you define your big, long-term vision, your mission, and your plan on how you will achieve these. When you write these down and keep them in front of you and refer to them often, the odds of you forgetting who you are and where you are heading and why are less likely to occur.
For Example: Is one of your goals for creating a successful business enterprise to contribute to a certain charitable organization? Have the description of the charity work they do in front of you as well. Remind yourself of this aspect of your mission every single day.
Why is it that so many who rise to celebrity status also suffering from their egos rising to even greater heights?! Ug! The good news is that everyone isn’t like that – that kind of better-than-you attitude does nothing but hurt everyone. I have found that it is much better to be humble and gracious and not take anything for granted … that celebrity may not last forever after all…
Jennifer Bourn, Bourn Creative
Jennifer,
Not certain how this happens. Something is definitely tied to how a ‘right turn on red’ went from a Wow! this is really cool, I just stop and then I go. To today where everyone just kinda rolls right thru red to make that right turn.
Somewhere these are connected? Or am I rambling?
I have to say I’ve never used the acronym PAS before, but I’ve met plenty of people who have it, ha! Thanks for calling such behavior out in your blog post, Mitch.
Sue,
Well maybe we just need to write and speak more about PAS. I am thinking bumper stickers, a retreat, medication….
Mitch
This rings true for me: When you write these down and keep them in front of you and refer to them often, the odds of you forgetting who you are and where you are heading and why are less likely to occur.
Thanks
Trudy
Trudy,
Sometimes I wonder about the writing down and keeping it in front of you. Is anyone able to do this any longer when their face is in the Iphone 99% of the time, even when driving?
Mitch
Love the use of PAS! I’ve encountered a few people with this condition and it isn’t pretty. The sad part is that they are typically masking a feeling of “less than” and “fear” underneath the surface.
Yes, I think tying your work to an overall business strategy or legacy is the key to sustainable success. You must answer the question: WHY am I doing this?
Much love,
Jenny
Jenny,
You are right on as usual. The WHY? It is really the essence isn’t it.
Mitch