Lemonade Out of Lemons
The U.S. economy is still in bad shape, and today’s business students will be tasked with helping rebuild the American capitalist system and the American dream.
That was the message from San Angelo Mayor Alvin New as he delivered the annual Wells Fargo Distinguished Lectureship in Business this spring in the Houston Harte University Center.
“I challenge you to help make those things happen,” New said. “A focus on the reduction of government spending will be required to allow the economic growth necessary to pay the largest debt that we’ve had since World War II. Growing our economy is the way out, and that means business people will be needed to create jobs, create income and create wealth.”
“This economic engine is special,” he added. “I want you to take care of it as the generation that is coming on.”
Mainly addressing the students in the audience, the former president and CEO of Town & Country Food Stores told them his own story of growing up in rural West Texas, working in the cotton fields from the time he was eight years old and working his way through college at ASU to illustrate that anyone can be successful, regardless of their situation.
“Think about your own life and about anything that you describe as a hurdle that keeps you from getting something accomplished,” New said. “Forget it and figure out how to climb the hurdle. You can do this if you know where you are headed and you are willing to do what is necessary.”
“I believe in dreaming,” he added. “I believe in education, planning, hard work and generosity. You can do great things. You just have to set your mind to it and be resolved.”
To guide them on their way, New told the students about his personal “words to live by,” education, work, patience, goals, principles, ethics, engagement and giving, and encouraged them to come up with a list of their own.
“These are the things that I believe in and are the principles I try to live by,” New said. “Benjamin Franklin had 11 words to live by, but I didn’t adopt his, and I don’t expect you to adopt mine. I just want you to find some that drive your boat, and then stick to them.”
New also lauded the quality of an ASU education and urged the students to practice self discipline, have a moral compass in life and business, become engaged and involved in their communities and, above all, be patient as they work toward success.
To help in those endeavors, he introduced the audience to his “PLAN” (Prepare, Launch, Adjust, Network), and recommended each student formulate a dream statement, goals and a personal mission statement.
“Planning does not get you to your destination, so don’t analyze until paralyzed,” New said. “As Nike Launch says, ‘just do it.’ Adjust as you go because only God knows where you will end up anyway. Network with those who know.”
By using one of his favorite sayings, New also delivered the important message that talent in itself is not enough. It must be complemented by a good work ethic.
“Hustle beats talent, unless talent hustles,” he said.
Before leaving the podium to talk individually with students, New left them with one final note of encouragement.
“Life will not always be easy,” he said. “But, the right approach and a good attitude can go a long way in helping you make lemonade out of lemons. I hope I have helped you along the way.”
