A stupid man learns from his own mistakes...
...a wise man learns from the mistake of others
The current political situation in America is depressing and disgusting, but there is still time to learn from it and save our country and our planet. If we can distance ourselves from the "impartial" debates and the "unbiased" news sources that have created a downward spiral that is sucking the life out of this nation, then I believe we can course-correct and build a future and planet we are proud of - as individuals and as a nation. I want to share five important life and business lessons - inspired by learning from America's current struggles - that can help lead us to a more prosperous and fulfilling future:
Have and Share a Vision: Corporations spend a lot of resources building visions, but they are equally important for people. Knowing where you are going, and WHY you are going there is essential to a successful future. Businesses share their visions in publications and annual reports. Individually, we never have to publish reports, but I recommend following Chris Guillebeau's advice by conducting your own Annual Review - and sharing it with others, too. How can you follow your passion if you don't take the time to realize what it is?
Stay Focused: Keep the main thing, the main thing. We can learn a lot from America's current situation where our country is struggling because politicians are more focused on re-election then building a better country. I'll be the first to admit that staying focused is hard work. Too often fear, procrastination, and distractions step in the way. But if you are trying to do something significant, then do something significant. No excuses.
Support Things That Matter: In a powerful article in the Economist, Schumpeter highlights that while imperfect, America has progressed and leads the world in large part because of its support of business. In fact, Calvin Coolidge once said that "The business of America is business", however many of our current financial and economic woes are because American politicians have made decisions that have drastically hindered business. And as the political instability grows, both people and businesses suffer. Individually, every time we support a business, politician or practice that isn't making the world a better place we are part of the problem. Two important notes here: Not only should you support things that matter, but you should do things that matter so people can support you.
Take the High Road: The second that you bad-mouth, debate, or try and defend yourself, you are actually actively contributing to the downward spiral. Don't fall victim to traps. If you hear something bad, rise above it. If somebody attacks you, turn the other cheek. Only put your time, resources, and energy into efforts that are actively working towards your vision. If your efforts are pure and your work is remarkable, naysayers will be little more than flies on your windshield.
Coolidge's quotes that "America is in the business of business" begs an important question for you to ask yourself:Add Value: If you are not passionate about what you are doing, then keep searching until you are driven to go above and beyond. And if you are not the best person to be doing your work, then please consider stepping aside. Talking about doing things does not add value. Keeping people from doing good work does not add value. The only thing that adds value is starting, inspiring and completing work that matters.
What are you in the business of?
In today's world, it is rather difficult to stay focus. We mostly multi-task and handle so many responsibilities. Either way, in order to succeed in businesses or in your California LLC, to be able to focus can help you go a long way.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the comment, Djonni!
DeleteVision is important for any business, big or small. You have to be clear on your goals and objective. You can't just go and file LLC or corporation without planning.
ReplyDeleteI agree. It is indeed very essential for a company owner to have a vision, mission and goals. These will lead you business to the peak of success. In my case, since I'm about to start a business in the Philippines next month, I have already set my goals, vision and missions to ensure greener pasture.
ReplyDelete