John Flanner: Life Outline
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John Flanner is a Solihull man who lost his sight at 19, and is now bringing encouraging lessons to help British businesses to succeed. He is well qualified to speak, as he has overcome the major obstacle of being blind all his adult life. A hidden hereditary condition took his vision, and already struggling a host of phobias including girl-fear, a twilight existence beckoned on every level.
He instead went on to lead a remarkable life, in which he triumphantly conquerered his private fears, culminating in his Outstanding Achievement Award, at the very first National Civil Service Diversity Awards, in 2006.
A keen sports fan, he has counselled footballers and other sporting personalities over the years to encourage them through injuries and difficulties, from Brian Clough, to former Birmingham City manager Willy Bell.
He has recently written a book, Fear, fun and faith and he speaks on average 200 times a year, giving inspiring and amusing talks to government and business groups, telling what appreciation and encouragement can do to improve performance in the workplace.
John works part-time for HM Revenue & Customs using an electronic voice to read to him the content of letters and emails. Managers there said he had good communication skills, and he began receiving invitations to speak on diversity and encouraging positive attitudes, to counter low morale in areas like health and education. 'Just get by' staff become achievers as John teaches the most important skill of all - learning to operate oneself more effectively, improving morale.
John says: "Like a salmon, I'm going against the flow of cynicism: a lot of people thrive on a dose of encouragement. Appreciation and encouragement are two powerful tools that we can all use every day, and have a mighty impact on people. Big doors swing on small hinges and it is unlikely that any one of us can change the whole world, but we can change somebody's world. I say that I am blind but not without vision. In simple terms my vision is that today by simply being alive to the needs of others, I will make somebody's day brighter."
John is married to Sylvia and has four children and nine grandchildren. He is a keen Aston Villa Football Club supporter and also follows Warwickshire County Cricket Club.
John can be contacted for speaking engagements at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. , or call 0121 603 9438. His book, 'Fear, Fun and Faith' is now available, with more details at www.perfectvizion.com