Building on the Success of Others

ONE fundamental aspect of leadership and management involves building on the success of others, as well as the ability to learn and adapt from past experiences. I believe that as Club President, building on the successes and learning from the experience of the previous years is a basic ingredient to successfully navigate the Rotary year.

It is in this light that I happily note that President Jujut’s magical term is in full throttle, with a variety of meaningful projects being pursued. Our Magical Irresistible President (MIP), assisted by his team, has been working hard for Manila Rotarians to have a fun and meaningful year, coupled with an impactful one for the communities we serve.

No doubt, there is much to be learned from the previous years’ bold initiatives and successfully implemented institutional projects. These projects can and should be expanded and pursued, instead of being retired or shelved. This is the main problem in our government – when a new national or local executive is elected, the tendency always is to cast aside a project that has otherwise been transformative and beneficial. There is no continuity... all because personalities and politics get in the way. The elected leaders (especially in the local government level) mistakenly and myopically choose to pursue a new project without regard to its sustainability in the long term.

Thankfully, the Rotary Club of Manila’s signature and institutional projects are still being purposively and faithfully implemented, with very slight modifications that are adopted to adapt to the times. Indeed, we need not reinvent the wheel – the Rotary wheel included. These revered and transformative projects, among many others, I believe, are what makes RCM the club that it is today.

We live in a world that often emphasizes individual achievement and personal triumphs; thus, the concept of building on the success of others may seem counterintuitive. Yet, history is filled with examples of how one person’s success can serve as a stepping stone for others. Building on the success of others involves learning from their achievements, using their experiences as a foundation, and then contributing something new or improved. Also, building on the success of others does not mean simply copying; it means recognizing the value in what has been done and then adding to it, pushing it further, and evolving it in new directions.

One of the most valuable aspects of building on the success of others is the ability to learn from their experiences. Success is rarely the result of a flawless, linear path. Instead, it often involves overcoming obstacles, making mistakes, and adapting to challenges. By studying the journeys of those who have succeeded before us, we can avoid common pitfalls and make better decisions.

While building on the success of others is beneficial, it is important to recognize and honor the contributions of those who paved the way – the past President of the Club. Acknowledging the role others have played in RCM’S successes not only ensures that the past leaders’ efforts are respected but also fosters a culture of gratitude and mutual support.

To be sure, it is easy to take success for granted, especially when it is achieved by building on the foundation of those who came before us. However, true leadership involves recognizing this interconnectedness and giving credit where it is due. I am thankful for the past leaders of RCM (and of the District) who continue to mentor and guide today’s leaders.

Indeed, paying it forward is an essential aspect of this process of building on the success of others. This creates a virtuous cycle, where knowledge, resources, and support are continuously shared. Whether it’s mentoring others, sharing ideas, or investing in new talent, paying it forward ensures that future generations can build upon our successes in turn.

Finally, when we build on the success of others, we also open the door to collaboration, a cornerstone of progress. Truly, the idea that success is a solitary endeavor is increasingly being replaced by a more communal understanding. In every Rotary Club, the President’s ability to successfully serve the community depends on his ability to rally the Club members and have them involved and engaged.

I hope that all Manila Rotarians will continue to be enthusiastically involved and tirelessly supportive of the projects and programs of RCM – the first club in Asia. Mindful of our sworn covenant and commitment, let us all collectively build on the successes of those who came before us – the men who offered their service above self in the past 105 years – and continue to build the legacy for Rotarians of tomorrow. We owe it to them, to ourselves, to Rotary, and to our community.