For those who may be unfamiliar with the gentleman in the picture, he’s known around the globe as “The most interesting man in the world,”courtesy of a clever advertising campaign by the Dos Equis Beer Company.
In each ad or commercial, an unseen narrator shares an extraordinary accomplishment, or elaborates on a remarkable skill the man possesses, which reinforces the title bestowed upon him. And, until recently, it was just an ad to me…but then I discovered 5 incredible words.
For many, there’s something alluring about the moniker of “most interesting,” and others who couldn’t be bothered. My friends and I recently spent time discussing the subject and there were as many viewpoints as there were people at the table.
Because I know the conversation will pick up where it left off next time we’re together, I’ve been looking at the topic through different lens, and have spent time asking better questions.
It was while I was exploring, that I discovered those 5 incredible words written by Mr. Dale Carnegie…
“To be interesting, be interested.”
Now, if we use the fictional character as a test for the quote, I believe we could deduce that he became interesting , because of his deep and broad interest in a vast assortment of people and experiences. It would seem he opened his hands, eyes, ears, heart, and mind to the perspectives of others and new adventures.
He seems to be a constant LEARNER , and a safe bet he’s EMPATHETIC and an ACTIVE LISTENER . It’s an educated guess, but I don’t think he got the title by constantly playing the “one up” game, or by being overbearing, shallow, and self- centered. In fact, if you notice someone else (the narrator) is constantly singing his praises.
I realize it can be a difficult balance, talking and listening…I still struggle with it myself. But, if you keep those simple, yet profound five words in mind, I believe you’ll be off to a good start.
Now as always, I attempted to look at every possible angle. So, for all of you seeking the exception to the rule, YES…I came across “To be interesting, be DIS- interested.” And oddly there are instances when that does seem to work, like when someone plays “hard to get” causing others to be interested in them.
For me, I think I’ll stick with the strategy of being interested in others….which includes whether YOU have any thoughts on this topic?
Wishing you .