July 5, 2021
In honor of Howard Feiertag’s 93rd birthday THIS week (!!) I want to dedicate our Happy Monday message to him. For over six decades, he’s been a key leader in the hospitality industry and I’m beyond grateful to claim him as a cherished friend – a friend who has taught me to always believe the best…in myself, in others, and in the moment. He’s also taught me that our talent, purpose, and influence doesn’t expire at a certain age, we can add value always – should we choose to.
Right now, we find Howard still teaching a few days a week at Virginia Tech and releasing yet another book he has written on the topic of hospitality sales and marketing.
When we talk about living with intention, adopting a growth mindset, and choosing to embrace a positive stance for life - he is one we can all aspire to be a bit more like. I know I do!
Here’s a snapshot of his story and the rich life lessons that come with it…
Being the youngest of ten children and the only one that went on to college, Howard’s story is about choosing a positive attitude and always believing in your ability, whether or not you are supported by others.
He is confident that his success has come from helping other people become better - by making a difference in their lives, it has in turn, made a difference in his. This was not a mindset he was raised with, it’s one he took on himself in life.
Throughout his lengthy career, he’s found that people followed him not because of his education or background, but because of who he is - they’ve always been attracted to his attitude and results.
He’s a master at creating cultures that people want to be part of, because he knows how to influence momentum and listen to people.
His spirit of always helping others to be successful is contagious. Because he believes so strongly in the power of others, he designed the Starfish Award - it’s given out to those who make a difference in someone else’s life.
Howard chooses to live a life where he remains positive about everything. He decided years back to not worry, complain, gossip, judge, or create negativity. His stance is to look for the good in life, and this perspective has provided him with healthy relationships, opportunities, and mindset.
He believes in taking time for people—to listen well, not by offering suggestions for improvement, yet by simply listening.
As he works with college students, he often shares this advice:
Choose to know what’s good about you. Be that and be confident.
Prove it! Get started. Learn something. Do a great job. Don’t get fixated on your salary or the next steps - prove yourself first! The next steps will come when you do a great job where you’re at - and you’ll get paid for it!
Howard is always offering a bright smile and the opportunity to mentor those in his life. He’s intentionally chosen to be a positive impact. My hope in sharing part of his story with you is that you’re inspired to use your influence to do the same.
People will forget what you said, forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. -Maya Angelou
