Fifty years ago Sunday, the Beatles appeared on The Ed Sullivan Show.

If they had flopped, their performance would have been forgotten.

But of course they didn’t.

News accounts of the Beatles’ first visit to America provide clues to how leaders can approach their craft.

The Beatles…

1. Brought a fresh approach to their work. The music of the Beatles was informed by American rhythm and blues, but the band injected enough of their personality to make their music their own.  What are you doing to make what you do special for your customers and your employees?

1. Wanted to be great.  People on hand for the band’s rehearsals marveled that the group was the only group appearing on the show that took their rehearsals seriously.  How good do you really want to be?

1. Didn’t take themselves too seriously.  While they wanted to do their best, they loved what they were doing and they made time for fun. Do you love what you’re doing?

After all, money can’t buy you love.