In Appreciation of John Ruhlin - Lessons that Live and Love On

Paper Napkin Wisdom

In memory of John, and to support his family during this difficult time, please consider contributing to the GoFundMe campaign set up in his honor. In Appreciation of John Ruhlin - Lessons that Live and Love On

John Ruhlin was more than just an entrepreneur; he was a master of appreciation, a man whose philosophy of valuing others left an indelible mark on everyone he met. As we reflect on his life and legacy, it's clear that John's lessons on appreciation continue to resonate deeply, influencing both personal and professional relationships.

In a recent series of conversations with some of John's closest friends—Cameron Herold, John Di Julius, Shep Hyken, and John O'Leary—each of them shared profound insights into the impact John had on their lives and careers.

Cameron Herold began the conversation by reminding us of John’s core belief: "Love Bombing." Cameron emphasized that this simple yet powerful principle was something John lived by every day. Whether in business or personal life, John believed that recognizing and valuing the people around us leads to growth—both in relationships and in outcomes.

John Di Julius echoed this sentiment, highlighting how John’s philosophy of appreciation propelled him to unprecedented heights. "His message has touched so many," John said, reflecting on how John Ruhlin’s approach to valuing people was the key to his meteoric rise. It wasn't just about gifts or gestures; it was about the genuine care John showed for everyone in his circle, something that resonated deeply with all who knew him.

Shep Hyken shared a poignant memory of John, recalling the suddenness of his passing and the void it left in the hearts of his friends and colleagues. Shep reminded us that John’s legacy isn’t just in the business strategies he pioneered, but in the love and respect he cultivated. "John lived by his words," Shep noted, emphasizing that his success was a direct result of his unwavering commitment to appreciating those around him.

John O'Leary closed the conversation with a reflection on how John’s credo—"What you appreciate, appreciates"—was not just a mantra but a way of life. John O'Leary pointed out that this philosophy was something John Ruhlin didn’t just preach; he practiced it daily, and in doing so, he inspired others to do the same.

Five Key Takeaways from John Ruhlin’s Legacy:

1. Appreciation Creates Growth: What you appreciate truly does appreciate, leading to stronger relationships and better outcomes in all areas of life.

2. Genuine Care Leads to Success: John’s meteoric rise in business was fueled by his genuine care for others—a lesson that reminds us that success is deeply tied to how we treat people.

3. Live by Your Principles: John didn’t just talk about appreciation; he lived it every day, showing that our principles should be reflected in our actions.

4. Relationships Over Transactions: John’s approach to business was never about the transaction; it was always about building meaningful, lasting relationships.

5. Legacy of Love: John’s passing is a reminder that our greatest legacy isn’t what we achieve, but how we love and appreciate those around us.

John Ruhlin’s life and work remind us that the true measure of success lies in how we value others. As we carry forward his lessons, let’s all strive to appreciate more deeply, love more fully, and build relationships that stand the test of time.

In memory of John, and to support his family during this difficult time, please consider contributing to the GoFundMe campaign set up in his honor. John was a gift to us all, and now we have the opportunity to give back to his family, ensuring his legacy of generosity lives on.