June 26, 2010

Doing the Advanced Work

It's a natural feeling to want to be successful in life.  We constantly set goals, both short and long term, that hopefully lead to success.  Sometimes they're short, quick wins and other times they are long term goals that lead to success such as saving for retirement.  Time and time again I hear people call others "lucky" or "fortunate" when they achieve success.  Is it really simply a matter of luck that leads to success?  I don't think so.  Sure, I'll agree that in almost any victory, a little bit of luck helps.  We all deal with small fires or bumps while achieving our goals.  We all have someone that mentors us, watches over us or gives helps to crack open the door.  What you do with that opportunity is up to each of us.  But, if you just sit back and wait for that door to be opened then you may never reach your goals.  So, what can you do to help achieve your goals, both short and long term achievements?  I'd argue it's all in the advanced work.  It's in the preparation and practice that you do leading up to achieving your goal.

March 10, 2009

The Nature of Hard Work

I often talk about the need to hustle to achieve your goals whether they be personal or professional goals.  All across America there are millions of people who spend their life working hard to provide for their families.  Some work hard because they have to and others hustle, whether or not because they have to, but instead because they want to.  They love their jobs. I started really thinking about this while watching a recent TED presentation by Mike Rowe, the host of "Dirty Jobs".

February 12, 2009

Are You Focused

Earlier tonight I decided to watch a keynote by Gary Vaynerchuk that I like to watch often as a source of motivation.  I've watched this presentation when I'm tired in the middle of the night; when I miss being home while I'm 10,000 miles away from my fiance; when I've been stressed out before with projects; or when I'm busy trying to crush it and just want that extra little shove.