Saturday, September 17, 2016

leadership dot #1569: winner's circle

I only spent a few moments with the horses I saw in Kentucky, but could tell how easily it would be to fall in love with one of those gorgeous animals. 

On our tour, we learned of several owners who had created "horse cemeteries" with tombstones and markers for their beloved equines. The more famous horses even have life-size statues and memorial parks at their grave sites. 

But the tribute that touched my heart the most was that of Karen Taylor, owner of the undefeated Triple Crown Winner Seattle Slew. Every year, Ms. Taylor sent flowers to Seattle Slew's gravesite on each day of a triple crown race -- the same flowers the winner would receive -- roses on Derby Day, white carnations for the Belmont and black eyed susans on the day the Preakness was run. 

Of course, the flowers were to comfort her more than the horse, but isn't that the case with all memorials? The point is that she made her recognition specific, both in date and type of flowers.

Think about Karen Taylor the next time you need to pay tribute to someone. Intensely personalized symbols will put you in the winner's circle every time.

-- beth triplett
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