The Spark in Their Eyes

What do Navy SEALs and successful business networking have in common?

Well, I heard a great story at a BNI_® Conference in Poland a few years ago. The Master of Ceremony, Pawal, told the audience how Navy SEALs, some of the most elite warriors in the world, get selected.

There is a process to become a Navy SEAL and it is not an easy process – not everybody makes it to the end. They have this basic underwater demolition training, which takes 24 weeks, and on week three, they put the candidates through all kinds of mental and physical activities.

Pawal shared that the people who do the selection during the training process said that there’s no rule about who makes it through. It’s not the strongest one, the toughest one, and it’s not the fastest one. They can’t look at somebody and say that person is very physically strong so they’re going to make it, or this one is extremely smart so they’re going to make it. But sometimes they can tell if someone will make it through just by seeing a little spark in their eye. They said the one thing that is consistent with those who complete the training is commitment. And they have the spark in their eye.

I think this is an amazing story. And I think it’s very true in business, in networking, and in BNI – those who are successful have that spark or sparkle in their eye. What does it mean to have a “sparkle in your eye”? It is an expression made up of many things. The sparkle refers to a bright, lively appearance in the eyes indicating vitality, positive emotions, and genuine engagement. It happens when someone is excited, happy, determined, and motivated. Perhaps their eyes open a little wider, to catch more light. Whatever it is, you know it when you see it.

It’s like I’ve said for years:

There are people that are on fire. It’s their attitude – they’re excited, they’re eager to learn, and they have the spark in the eye. Those are the ones that are the most successful.

I had never heard that concept applied to the Navy SEALs. The thing that was consistent in those who were selected to graduate from the extensive training was their commitment and having that spark in their eyes. The same can be said for business networking success – it takes commitment, consistency, and a positive, can-do attitude. Just look at the sparkle in the eyes of those who are doing it.

NOTE: I heard this story a few years ago at an international business event. Training requirements may be updated or changed since that time and can vary by country.

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