OKC Shoe Shiner Inspires Us To Live Our Best Life

We hear all the time how disconnected and distracted we are and how less engaged we seem to be. 

On a recent trip out of town to get away from it all, News 9's Rachel Calderon happened to meet someone whose everyday attitude can put us in check and give us motivation to focus and have pride in what we do.

It is easy to speed right past Harold Smith at Will Rogers World Airport, but hopefully you have a few minutes to spare.

Tucked between a coffee shop and Harold's Shoe Shine Booth. Except Saturdays, Harold works from 4 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. and that is how it has been for 27 years.

In that time, the quiet, soft-spoken man has built an over the top reputation .

"Someone called my office and said ‘I used to travel all the time and Harold used to shine my shoes. I'm retired now, is there any way I can contact him?' So even though they weren't flying as much they still wanted Harold to shine their shoes,” said Karen Carney, spokesperson for Will Rogers World Airport.

Harold said top quality, efficiency and a positive attitude are missing from business these days. He said this is why he is a small business success story.

He only needs six minutes to wash, polish, brush and buff a pair of shoes, but it is his confidence, attitude and pride in his work that keeps people coming back.

“My shoe shine job is just as important as a coffee shop her. People depend on me. If you're going to do something, do it right," Harold said.

His final piece of advice: Practice and love what you do.