OK, you can call me 'Sir'

“Think about how you can help those in your community who put their lives on the line in military, public safety and healthcare roles. ”

By Jay Fehnel for Johan Advisors

Generally, I cringe when someone calls me "Sir'.  Researchers say most adults think of themselves as 28 years old.  I know I do.

There is one exception, though, and that's my annual visit to speak with the Entrepreneurship Bootcamp for Veterans with Disabilities (EBV) at Purdue University's Krannert School of Management.  

I'd let these students call me anything they want!  And many of them prefer "Sir".

I love being on campus and meeting with students of any age, but this is the only time of the year I get to work with students who were willing to take a bullet, or worse, for me and for our country. That makes you realize that a tough day at the office is a nuisance compared to what our military and first-responders face every day.

The topic of my session was "Telling Your Business' Story."  These veterans have a special story to tell about their discipline, their commitment and their ability to accept risk. 

The EBV program is offered at eight universities around the country (Syracuse, Florida State, UCLA, Texas A&M, University of Connecticut, Purdue, Louisiana State, Cornell, Saint Joseph’s, and Missouri).   If you can make it to one of those spots, reach out and ask how you can help.

If you can't be part of EBV, think about how you can help those in your community who put their lives on the line in military, public safety and healthcare roles.  

I guarantee you'll come away with a new appreciation of leadership and commitment -- and a better sense of perspective about the challenges you face at work.