In reality, habits do not just “happen.”
They are the end result of a chain consisting of thoughts which lead to feelings which lead to actions. If you wish to change the actions long-term, you must change your internal dialog first. [Read more…]
Is Your Attitude Showing?
Your attitude shows – even if you think it’s hidden.
Don’t deny it; own up to it.
Others are already aware of it – even if you never say anything.
And don’t feel bad if it’s not “happy-clappy” all the time. After all, we all have our down days. After all, someone with a “positive attitude” is simply someone whose attitude is positive more times than it’s not.
Check your attitude regularly. If it’s not serving you, do a reset.
Remember, as difficult as it might be to adjust it, it’s YOUR attitude and you can let it control you – or you can control it.
Are you controlled by “THEM”?
“Should” is the word used by the invisible committee of “THEY” to run your life.
You know what it’s like,
“I should be thinner.”“I should be a better parent.”“I should have thought of that before.”
I should. I should. I should.
If you find yourself saying “I should,” you are under the control of the THEM. THEY use the word to put you in your place and to help you feel bad about yourself for not measuring up to an unrealistic standard.
Are you Independent or Stubborn?
Are you independent or are you stubborn?
It’s a fine line between being “independent” and being “stubborn.”
Being independent means being able to get along and function on your own without needing anyone else’s help nor approval. It also means you are open to hearing other’s ideas and to learning better ways to move forward.
However, being stubborn means insisting that you know how to do what you do irrespective of evidence or offered support; even if it’s not getting the best results. Stubbornness means you’re more determined to get your way rather than get it done well. In reality, stubbornness harms relationships and holds you back.
It’s a sign of strength to ask for help when you need it. It’s a sign of maturity to recognize when you need the help.
Even strong independent people have areas where they need others.
Recognize them. Get help.
Then return the favor.
You Don’t Know Who You’re Messing With
I conduct a monthly seminar, Marketing 101, for the Northern California Small Business Development Center, known as the “SBDC.” I am fortunate to have piloted this session for the better part of a decade. One of the relevant factoids I’ve uncovered over that time is that a satisfied customer will tell five of his friends that he had great service, while his unhappy counterpart will spread forcefully the message of his discontent to 13.
The exact numbers might be debated but that would miss the broader point:
When someone wrongs us with dreadful service, our first thought is, “You don’t know who you just messed with!”
Come on, be honest, isn’t that the truth? Bad service has happened to you, right? And your reaction is to launch forth — sometimes with quixotic zeal — on a “mission” to bring down the offending business and correct the travesty of this injustice, while informing all you meet to steer clear of that worthless enterprise. I know I’ve done it. I’m sure you have too.
That caused me to ponder why in situations like that, we consider ourselves powerful and important; while in other circumstances, we give away that same influence.
It’s because of adjectives.
(Huh?)