In times like these, it might feel like we’re in a business “famine” – so it’s more important than ever to look for the bright spots and good news stories.
In Chip and Dan Heath’s best-selling book written over a decade ago, Switch, How to Change When Change is Hard, they talk about looking for bright spots. And there’s one real story in the book I want to highlight:
Are you an approval junkie?
She said, “You’ll never make any friends being like this.”
I replied, “I’m not here to make friends – I have friends. I’m here to do a job.”
You should care more about being respected than you do about seeking others’ approval and validation.
Free is too expensive, and I’ll tell you why. I originally published the following blog way back in 2011 and revisited it in 2017, but it is easily my most popular post I’ve made – and for good reason.
Now, in 2020, at the start of a new decade – I want to remind you again that you don’t need to work for free.
Let’s revisit the subject of free services for those who have yet to encounter this article, and for those who have forgotten this important lesson. This is timeless advice and here is a stern look at why free can sometimes be way too expensive.
I’ve been in the coaching and consulting business for over 10 years now, and I’ve worked with hundreds of people, from the “starting a business” stage to the “multiple seven-figure profits” stage. I’ve seen it all. But more importantly– I’ve done a lot of things during that time to grow my own business too.
Before we go any further, know this: the grind is not always sexy.
I believe storytelling is a powerful branding strategy. It’s more powerful than a calculated algorithm or system — you see, storytelling is a strategic tool. Stories are compelling, they move you to action and enrich your experience.
Human beings love stories.
So, when I came within earshot of one on a recent vacation, it got me thinking about how impactful stories are in our daily lives and our businesses.
Reading is critical to your success and development as a human being and in your business. To put it simply: leaders are readers.
Learning doesn’t stop when you get that diploma or settle into a job. Your development matters, and that’s why I’m a huge advocate for self-education and ongoing learning.
Try is a weak word. When it becomes a part of your vocabulary, what you’re actually doing is telling yourself that you’re not committed, serious, or interested in following through.
When you’re serious about whatever it is you’re doing, you stop implying that you will ‘try’ and, instead, simply do. You commit to getting it done. You commit to showing up. You’re all in!
When I coach business clients and meet participants at my workshops, regardless of ages, titles, and experience — the biggest excuse that keeps popping up over and over:
“It’s hard for me to _____________.”
Have you ever heard yourself say something along these lines about your lifestyle or business? Fill in the blank. Just add your own, personal “thing” that you find hard to do. What’s your biggest excuse?
Why Free is Too Expensive 08 Jan , 2020
How To Use YouTube Live Events 18 Nov , 2014
Shop Talk – Get Your Gravatar On! 27 Aug , 2012
