7 Things Security Professionals Can Learn from Robin Williams
- By Ginger Hill
- Aug 13, 2014
We have been forced to say our “good-byes” to actor Robin Williams. As one of my most favorite actors, I have been reflecting back on all of his movies, replaying some quotes in my head. There are some awesome things that security professionals can learn from him.
- “That’s why you treat a disease, you win, you lose.” – Patch Adams
Never devalue human life. At the end of the day, isn’t that what security is all about? Protecting humanity.
- “I stand upon my desk to remind myself that we must constantly look at things in a different way.” – Dead Poet’s Society
Seek a fresh perspective. As a security integrator, remember, it’s your job to give your client a fresh perspective. Each and every client presents a unique opportunity to incorporate a barrage of awesome security technology offered within the industry. Strive to give your clients the fresh perspective they are looking for to achieve their security goals.
- “You’ll have a bad time, but it’ll always wake you up to the good stuff you weren’t paying attention to.” – Good Will Hunting
Find the good in each situation. Every time there is a security issue, there is plenty of bad; however, with all bad, there is good. For example, we will never forget the Sandy Hook tragedy, when a man opened fire in an elementary school. That terrible tragedy forever changed our nation. So, where’s the good?
People from all over the world wrote letters of love, care and concern; therapy dogs came to help the children; and the list of good goes on and on.
- “A man is not very tired. He is exhausted. And don’t use very sad. Use…morose!” – Dead Poet’s Society
Don’t be lazy. Now is the time to embrace security. Don’t wait until some tragedy strikes. Be alert, ready and take action immediately. As a security professional, you hold the tools in the palm of your hands. Use them.
- “You must strive to find your own voice. Because the longer you wait to begin, the less likely you are to find it at all.” – Dead Poet’s Society
Be proactive. Anticipate security issues before they occur to better prepare for a quick solution and a positive outcome.
- “Touch me again and I’ll drown you…” - Mrs. Doubtfire
Protect your personal space. Always know what’s going on around you by interpreting your environment, determining if you are safe or in danger and then reacting appropriately, better known as situational awareness.
- “Why can’t we treat death with a certain amount of humanity and dignity and decency…” – Patch Adams
Embrace the inevitable. It’s fortunate and unfortunate that there will always be a need for security measures: Unfortunate because of all the evil in the world; fortunate because people can embrace this industry as a career to help make our world safer.
(Image: Jorg Hackemann / Shutterstock.com)
About the Author
Ginger Hill is Group Social Media Manager.