Every once in a while you have an opportunity to listen to an incredibly skilled speaker; one whose words inspire you to do more for yourself, your family, your organization.  In a time when unemployment is at 9.8%, its highest percentage in twenty-six years, some motivation would be great, especially for the unemployed.

Remember Herb Brooks, the coach of the U.S. hockey team who won a gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics against the Soviets?  Maybe you’ve seen a few of Herb’s speeches via Kurt Russell in Disney’s 2004 film, Miracle.  Whether you have or not, his ability to motivate his team against tremendous odds is a great example of what the HR industry needs today.  Where is the Herb Brooks of HR? 

I found a great article and video recently that demonstrates the motivational capacity of Herb’s words.  Although the video features then four year old Josh “Rizzo” Sacco, who has watched Miracle nearly 150 times, it still gets the point across.        

“Tonight, we skate whiff’um! Tonight, we stay whiff’um! And we shut dem down because we CAN!”

Some days I feel like I need a shot in the arm to give me a boost to go above and beyond the norm.  Other days I wake up ready to take over the world, especially after reading some thought provoking content by HR bloggers like Ben Eubanks of UpstartHR.  I just wish this feeling was more consistent.  Yes, I realize I control the attitude I bring to the office each day, but it would be great to have someone or something out there that provides continuous inspiration.  Seriously, HR needs a miracle!

Who inspires you?  Who is the Herb Brooks of your organization? Of your HR department?  Do you have a team that champions HR?  Is it you?  How is your company reaching out to candidates and keeping them motivated?  Who do they have to look to for motivation in this economic recession?  Please share your thoughts!

Photo Credit:  Yahoo! Sports Canada