Today’s message calls for a little clarification. It is my opinion, and general observation, that people are becoming more boring by the minute. Your job then becomes making certain that you don’t come across like you are marking time between now and the hereafter.
In an otherwise “vanilla” environment, people are attracted to others who are look alive, energetic, and happy — who have ideas and crazy notions about life — and who have kind things to say about others. If you want to stand out, regardless of your chosen career path: “Get yourself out of the bleachers, onto the playing field, and into the game.” Starting today, you are no longer a spectator. You are a player.
Not Making Mistakes Is a Mistake
What stops most people from pursuing what they want in life has a lot to do with FEAR. Fear of what?, you ask. Fear of success. Fear of failure. Or, perhaps more specifically, the fear of making a mistake.
In Seth Godin’s latest book, What To Do When It’s Your Turn, he tells us in no uncertain terms, “he who fails the most… wins.” This does not endorse negative thinking. It is a reminder that your failure record is a clear indication that you’re still in the game. If you continue to play long enough, you will have your fair share of victories.
Here’s how you can completely reverse that psychology: Give yourself permission to make mistakes.
I’m not suggesting that you commit flagrant fouls. I’m asking you to allow yourself time and space to experiment, and come up short when trying to stretch beyond your current comfort zone. Mistakes are the result of challenging one’s limits.
Allowing yourself to make mistakes will instantly make you and your life more interesting. The words “mistake” and “boring” do not work well together. Mistakes are never boring. (Quite the contrary.) Mistakes are catalysts for adrenaline surges. Granted, some may be dangerous and others stupid. Some mistakes may prove costly, while others can be painfully embarrassing. But without exception, they are never boring.
Today’s Message: People are drawn to others who are not afraid of making mistakes. We find it delightfully amusing when people are confident enough to laugh at themselves after having made the effort. So, stick your neck out now and then. Stretch a little. Make a mistake.
Mike Marchev is always looking for a few more proactive travel professionals to join his Sales and Marketing Club. Send for details.
mike@mikemarchev.com.
