What Zig Ziglar’s principles teach us about success in Logistics

In our fast-paced world of transport and logistics, it’s easy to get caught up in the numbers, the deadlines, and the relentless pursuit of efficiency. But amid all the hustle, it’s important to pause, reflect, and think about the kind of legacy we’re building — both in business and in our personal lives. A name that comes to mind when discussing impactful legacies is Zig Ziglar, a man who, despite having a name that might sound like a character from a fantasy novel, left an indelible mark on the world.

For us, Ziglar’s words and approach to life continuously provide valuable lessons on how to operate not just as a business, but as a team and a community that stands the test of time and here are some of the key lessons we apply from his life and career.

1. The Power of Consistency

One of Zig’s standout habits throughout his life was his commitment to learning. Zig made a point to read for three hours every day. This devotion to constant learning and self-improvement has been powerful, especially our industry, where trends, technology, and best practices are constantly evolving and staying ahead of the curve is key. Whether it’s embracing new transportation management software, understanding the latest in sustainable supply chain practices, or staying on top of regulatory changes, ongoing education makes a huge difference and ensure we are better positioned to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of the industry.

2. Building Relationships

Zig Ziglar was married for over 65 years, and he believed in courting the person you marry forever. His philosophy was simple: treat relationships with the same care and attention you gave when you first started them. While his focus was on personal relationships, this principle is just as relevant in the professional world. In the logistics industry, relationships are everything. From working with suppliers to managing customer expectations, the strength of the relationships you build determines the level of success you can achieve. Trust and consistency are key. By showing up for your partners, clients, and nurturing our team’s growth, we create lasting bonds that are built on mutual respect and loyalty.

3. Do What Needs to Be Done

Zig was known for his relentless work ethic. He wasn’t afraid to put in the hard work to achieve his dreams, and his approach to life was centred around perseverance and determination. This principle is crucial the logistics industry, where success often hinges on the ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and solve problems quickly, as the pressure can be intense. There are shipments to track, freight to deliver, and unexpected obstacles that can throw a wrench in the works. As we push through challenges and keep moving forward, we remind ourselves it’s not about avoiding hard work; it’s about taking on what needs to be done with a positive attitude and a willingness to go the extra mile even when it’s difficult or unglamorous. This way we ensure that we remain at the top of our game and continue to provide exceptional service to our clients.

4. Live a Life That Counts

Looking at Zig’s life, it was not only marked by his career success but also by his lasting influence on others. He lived a life that counted, one that inspired people to be better, do better, and never give up on their dreams. In his own words, “What will people say about us when we leave this world?” This question isn’t about the end of life — it’s about the impact we have while we’re here.

Our company legacy as a family business has been built over 30 years by the work we do, the relationships we foster, and the standards we set. We prioritise customer satisfaction and ethical practices as we understand the value of building reputations that last long after the delivery has been made or the contract has ended. By focusing on creating a positive impact in every area of our business, as logistics professionals we ensure that we’re leaving a legacy that’s not only about numbers but about making a difference. Just like Zig, we strive to make every day count, both professionally and personally, ensuring that our work is impactful and meaningful.

5. Reflecting on Our Journey

Making choices today that allow us to look back with pride tomorrow. Ziglar encouraged others to live with no regrets. It’s about embracing decisions that contribute to a solution and life where our actions align with our values and goals. The idea is simple yet powerful: when we live intentionally and purposefully, we set ourselves up for fulfillment, both personally and professionally. As a logistics provider, this is a principle that rings true in our business practices. It’s not enough to simply complete the job; we must ensure that we’ve done it with integrity, dedication, and a commitment to excellence. At the end of the day, our work should reflect the values we stand for.

For our logistics business, Zig’s emphasis on hard work, continuous learning, relationship-building, and creating a lasting impact can serve as a guide to success is a continuous inspiration to leave a meaningful legacy and make a difference in the world of transport and logistics. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I think I’ll take a moment to reflect on how I can elevate my own work — maybe after I finally research whether Zig Ziglar was his real name!