Positive energy has always been a cornerstone of my business, so I was excited when I came across Jon Gordon’s book. This guide to succeeding in work and life through the power of positive energy confirmed the value of everything I’ve tried to live by and share for my business, family and community. It’s been endorsed by leaders in many professions and should be high on your reading list.

Presented as a fable about a man named George who finds renewed purpose from his fellow passengers, The Energy Bus is a business book about more than business. It uses insightful metaphors to show how we can create meaningful lives by fueling our “bus” with joy, passion and authentic optimism.

There’s a valuable lesson in each one of Gordon’s rules for “the ride of your life.” Here are three that I find especially impactful and how I use them in business and my life:

Takeaway #1: Fuel your ride with positive energy.

Many people focus on the problems, and as CEO, I do have to help people overcome various challenges, but in between, I also make it a point to talk to people who are experiencing success. It really helps you stay balanced and focused on what your company is doing, despite the difficulties that may arise. You can’t let the “energy vampires” influence your demeanor – those who bring nothing but discord and negative attitudes.

Takeaway #2: Invite people on your bus and share your vision for the road ahead.

Your recruiting team should look for people who will share your vision and can easily be placed in the right seat. For us, that includes inviting family to join us. My dad brought me into the business, and now my children work with me. We have 15 people who are the second generation of their families to work with us. This brings valuable continuity that I hope will last well into the next generations.

Takeaway #3: Sit back and enjoy the ride.

We’re living Gordon’s rule, “Have fun and enjoy the ride,” every day. That doesn’t mean we’re all sitting around the campfire holding hands. There are some challenges because we set very high goals. However, that’s part of our culture, too – pursuing goals that stretch us while working in an enjoyable atmosphere. While comprehensive strategy is important, you must deliver a culture that makes the ride fun.

Bottom line: You’re the driver of the bus.

It’s Gordon’s first rule, and it governs all the rest. As the owner or a team leader, you’re the one who determines where you’re going, how you’ll get there and how fast you’ll travel. If you don’t get involved in goal setting and making sure everyone is aligned, you risk being stuck in neutral.

Bonus Read: You’re Not Listening to Me! Learn to Communicate Better by Improving the Listening Side by Ray Titus

Have you ever given instructions for a project to an employee or co-worker, and when they turn in the work, it seems to have no connection to what you directed?

What’s the problem? They weren’t listening – but you may not have been talking in a way that would help them to listen and comprehend what you’re saying.

Everyone has a different listening style, just as we all have different speaking styles. I learned this early in my career and decided to share it by writing You’re Not Listening to Me! Learn to Communicate Better by Improving the Listening Side. I look at the different styles, and how you can reach them, from the Exact Listener who takes every word literally to the Good Listener we wish we were always facing.

Once you get the listening side down, you’ll not only be heard but also understood.