The Clonakilla Success Secret

I had the privilege of having dinner with Tim Kirk, owner of Clonakilla wines. For those who have tasted it, you know that there is something incredibly magic about his wine. My first sip was like drinking silk. It's no wonder that his wines are such a massive success. Who would believe it - a little winery just outside of Canberra could carry such enormous prestige with such a magnificent product. But it's more than just good wine. And I wanted to find out Tim's secret. He said, "I was lucky to go to France, we had coincidentally planted the right kind of grape, I had some skill with marketing..." I just looked at him. We both knew that it was more than just the prosaic skills of business and marketing that created such stellar success. "What's the real secret, Tim? I don't think it's marketing. You can have two winemakers side by side, with the same skill and even the same strategy, and yet one sails ahead. I think the secret to your success is far more spiritual than that. It's about passion. You can taste it in your wine." He smiled. For Tim, making wine is an act of an appreciation - marveling at the force that causes vines to grow, fruit to swell and ripen, the sun that nurtures it all, and the rain that quenches thirsty roots. Making wine is about celebrating being part of an altogether more enormous process - fantastic and wonderful. You can taste this wonder, love, and awe in each bottle. And it struck me - how many of us pour this kind of love, care, and appreciation in to our own life's work? So often we get caught up in the busy-ness of life - cleaning the house, doing the shopping, paying bills, pressing 'play' each Monday morning. But each of us is a special creation - a one of a kind impression on the world - and we are all each remarkable in our own way. Likewise - what we contribute to the world is unique and special, to be appreciated, celebrated, and savoured - like a really fine wine. So for today - and for as many days as you dare to remember - take this love, care, and wonder to your encounters with others. When you shake hands with a client, smile with appreciation at the contribution they are making to your life's experience. When you thank a staff member for a job well-done, recognise that they too are a marvel all on their own. When you sit down to write a report, answer emails, make a phone call - let the amazement of life flow through you and delight in these small moments. These moments are as grand and impressive as if you were an empress watching the sun rise over your expansive domain. For you are indeed the monarch of your own life. And when you preside over your own life with grace, passion, awe, and appreciation - then success is a by-product. To your delicious life.