Are You Familiar with the John F. Kennedy NASA Janitor Story? 

NASA

Are you familiar with the John F. Kennedy NASA Janitor Story? 

Please forgive me if you already know this gem.

However, it is SO GOOD, it still great to revisit. 

Well, let’s go here first. 

As an entrepreneur, do you find yourself so focused on your business that you wake up to finally realize that your network is actually really tiny? 

In my case, many years ago, it was almost non-existent. 

This might be especially true if you lean towards being an introvert.

As an entrepreneur caught up in the crazy day-to-day, it is easy to find networking or pursuing self-growth takes a back seat.

I found this to be a serious flaw in my career many years ago.

To compensate, I decided to start getting involved in non-profits.

This turned out to be a huge blessing and incredible career builder. 

It allowed the opportunity to create amazing new relationships and expand my horizons way beyond expectations.

Another huge benefit included being surround by brilliant individuals who were passionate about a cause which delivered a priceless learning experience.

In one particular game-changing moment came for me while serving on a non-profit board. 

JFK NASA Story: Be the First to the Moon

The board decided to go through a strategic planning process.  

I was introduced to a strategic tree that changed my philosophy, my business and career.

While discussing the importance of a mission statement, the facilitator shared a powerful story that struck me like a lightening bolt. 

As legend has it, this story took place when President John F. Kennedy took a tour of NASA during the early days of the Space Race.

You may have heard this story and my apologies if this is not new to you.

Here is a quick snapshot from the strategic planner:

The early 1960’s was the height of the Cold War with communism and Russia.

This time period included the famous Space Race which was on full throttle. 

The U.S. was on a mission to place the first human being on the moon.

This was going to be part of Kennedy’s presidential legacy.

The goal and mission was to “Be First on the Moon”. 

From top management to the engineering team, finance, HR, operations, as well as the folks building the rocket ships themselves. 

Every person at NASA had one concrete goal, “Be First to the Moon”

While touring the NASA space station JFK sees a janitor sweeping the floor.

He walks up to the man and asks what the young man was doing.

The man replies, “Mr. President, I’m helping the U.S to be first to the moon”.

This team member, regardless of rank on the depth chart, beams with pride declaring the mission statement. 

He shares the organizational war cry. 

What is Your “Be First to the Moon”? 

If you Google “President Kennedy and the NASA janitor” you will see a wide variety of different versions of this this story. 

Including this article from Forbes: 18,000 Pages Of NASA Archives Uncover JFK’s Speech Strategy That Inspired The Moon Landing

The message behind the story paints the picture of excitement, enthusiasm, and determination. 

Every single person within the organization working towards a common goal. 

An audacious goal at that. 

Picking a crusade and then rallying the troops presents the opportunity to deliver powerful results. 

The Thrill of Hope. 

Hope: one of the greatest humans needs. 

Giving the gift of hope to your team and everyone around you. 

One small step that led to a Giant Leap for mankind. 

When this story was introduced, I immediately created a mission statement for my tiny business. 

It became my war cry.

I shared it with anyone and everyone who would listen. 

My teammates, my accountant, my attorney, the UPS driver, my dog, total strangers in line at the grocery, as well as the unfortunate person sitting next to me at a ball game or plane. 

So, what is your small step that will create your Giant Leap?

Do you have a cause that’s worth fighting for?

What is your mission?

Can you sum up what you do, clear and concisely in a sentence or two? 

What is your “Be the First to the Moon” war cry? 

Do you have a clear and concise vision?

Do you have a war cry that everyone involved in your company can quickly recite?

Block out all other distractions. 

Take that giant leap.

What do you have to lose?

What is the absolute worse thing that can happen if you throw caution in the wind?

Pick a Cause and Give Everything You’ve Got!!!

Wrapping It Up 

Thanks for reading this post. I deeply appreciate it! 

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