Quotes I am thankful for
We all find energy in great inspiration. For me, that energy is just what I need when building out objectives for the coming year, or rising to the next big challenge. In the spirit of the holiday, I just wanted to share some of the advice and quotes that have meant the most to me in shaping my approach to business.
“Always do what you are afraid to do.”
“To fight fear, act. To increase fear - wait, put off postpone.”
Habitually getting out of your comfort zone is incredibly important for consistent success. I encourage my team to always follow a 70:20:10 planning approach that consists of 70% tried and true, 20% proven innovation and 10% new territory.
“Throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
“You can’t wait for inspiration. You have to go after it with a club.”
Take risks. Test yourself. Innovation is an overused word, but the fact remains that risk taking and new exploration are imperative for achieving it. When something fails, you learn from it, but when it works, expand!
“There are times when you have to face your enemies, sit down and deal with it.”
Compete. I believe business is about winners and losers. Be certain that those around you understand your relentless pursuit of greatness.
“What you do is what matters, not what you think or say or plan.”
“Inaction breeds doubt and fear. Action breeds confidence and courage. If you want to conquer fear, do not sit home and think about it. Go out and get busy.”
“An ounce of action is worth a ton of theory.”
“Strategy is a commodity, execution is an art.”
Execution and implementation within prescribed timelines is paramount to success. Don’t shortchange it. But also don’t iterate until hell freezes over – move on the idea and make it even better by simply executing it.
“I do not have much interest in best practices… What we really need is to ask what is the next practice, so that we can become the benchmark companies, benchmark institutions around the world.”
“Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking.”
Speed is key to driving change – you must be faster than your customers and competitors. Don’t miss your moment, as fast actions done well are incredibly powerful.
“If you are honest about helping others rather than showing how smart you are, things are very easy.”
I believe wholeheartedly in giving back personally and professionally. Offer help to those who need a chance to succeed, and create opportunities for others along your path. What may be a small boost from you could create a world of difference for someone else.