I am with clients all day who are learning what it means to win and build their own business. This is almost impossible if two ingredients are missing: Passion and Honesty. It is hard to find both in people. The world is a funny place. I have not met anyone who has told me, “Don, I am lazy.” or “Don, I just don’t want to win.” What we have been conditioned to do is package our phrasings with sensitivity, pride and a bit of lying. Lying is a strong word, but think about it. Do you really get the real answer when you ask a question like, “Do you want to be successful?” What person is going to tell you “No?” As a business coach, I have to watch and see. I look for alignment. Are a person’s words and behaviors aligned? That journey sometimes may not necessarily be about success. It may be about honesty.
I read a neat article by Robert Kiyosaki, Author of Rich Dad, Poor Dad. I think Mr. Kiyosaki has been around the block a few times and he comments on his observations as a person who has made the journey towards his personal success. He contrasts the straight talk he experienced in the military to his civilian life. His message is clear to audiences across the world, but he knows something – many people are not honest with themselves.
Dare to be honest. It’s the best place to start your personal journey.
Don, this is a difficult task for most people. One must be able to self reflect and see where they are alligned in reference to their goals and their actions. My personal challenge is that I tend to take on too much with my perpetual personality and then bog down and get lost in the details.