David Freund, Chief Leadership Officer at the Manufacturers Association of Central New York, has challenged the common belief in the “self-made” individual. In a recent message, Freund said that personal achievements are rarely accomplished alone and often rely on support from others.
Freund reflected on his own career and noted that along the way, people have played important roles by offering opportunities or encouragement. He cited a story shared by author and speaker Ryan Leak at a previous Live2Lead event. Leak described how a teacher’s intervention allowed him and his brother to remain enrolled in private school after their family could no longer afford tuition. According to Freund, “Ryan has since become a best-selling author and a sought-after speaker—but he credits a major part of that success to that teacher who saw something worth investing in.”
Freund posed questions for readers to consider: “Who’s responsible for where you are right now? Who saw something in you that others didn’t? Was it a coach, a teacher, a family member, a neighbor, or someone in your community or workplace? Maybe it was a leader who took a chance on you or a customer on your paper route who saw your work ethic. Maybe it was someone you barely knew who offered words of encouragement that kept you going.”
He emphasized the importance of recognizing those who have helped shape individual paths and encouraged attendees to think about how they can support others: “Live2Lead isn’t just an event, it’s a chance to grow as a leader and reflect on the kind of legacy you’re creating. As you think about those who have helped you, I encourage you to also think about who you can help. I encourage you to be that person for someone else.”
Freund concluded with an invitation: “If you haven’t already, I encourage you to register for Live2Lead, to hear more about who helped to shape my success and hear from other leaders about their own journeys and lessons.”
The Live2Lead event is scheduled for November 7th at The Lodge in Skaneateles.
