Leadership Thought #365 – Challenge Yourself
It was about two years ago when a friend bet me I couldn’t do 365 daily blogs. I have no doubt his intentions were well meaning and pure. Today, I have accomplished that goal (even more if you count the “song of the weekend” and other themed blogs). When I first started it felt like a daunting task. I couldn’t imagine I would have enough write about or have the time to get it done in my busy schedule. It also would require more consistent discipline than I am used to. My tendency is to be more of a free spirit and I don’t like to get boxed in by self imposed obligations. However, I have surprised myself and found that I actually like the daily routine of writing this blog. In many ways it has been therapeutic and good for my soul.
Leadership Thought #220 – Timing IS Everything
I’ve always believed that life rewards those who are prepared when an opportunity presents itself. To do this, you need to honestly know what a great opportunity would mean for you and why. You need to have an underlying sense of your personal values and priorities. You need to be actively searching for success and happiness and be on the lookout for positive signs. You need to know what you would be willing to give up or sacrifice to make something work. You need to be flexible but not jump at every opportunity that presents itself. You need to have a sense of context and perspective. You need to learn from your mistakes. You need to be brave enough to answer the door when opportunity knocks and be willing to risk short term comfort for long term gain. You need to be intellectually, physically and mentally prepared for the ensuing challenge. You should also be wary of burdening yourself with a lifestyle that affords minimal flexibility and boxes you into a financial corner.