How Bad Do You Want It?

Last week, I had the pleasure of speaking to the Great Lakes Graphics Association, which serves the states of Wisconsin, Indiana and Illinois. Toward the end of my presentation, I gave a sneak peek of the new book I am beginning to work on. The component I shared was time management. So, I thought I would share a little more here.

In life, or in business, if you want something bad enough you will find a way. However, if you do not want it bad enough, you will find an excuse as to why it can’t or won’t work. It is amazing to me how many printing companies are still complaining about the “bad economy,” whereas other successful print shops have grown by acquiring other companies, hiring employees and diversifying. They are making a solid profit. Why? Simple; they have “out-thought” the competition. Remember, if you want it bad enough you will find a way, and if you do not then you will find an excuse.

Quite frankly, I hate excuses. My mindset is simple. My mantra is make it happen. Said other ways, “Suck it up, put on your big boy pants, quit complaining, stop making lame excuses that were valid in 2009 and, for goodness sake, bring some true value to the table.” Yes, that is right. Winners will find a way to succeed in any situation, whereas laggards will tell you the things that are holding them up. Here is my question: Are you better, more talented, more valuable and more creative than those who you compete with? Do you want to win or just go along for the ride? Are you part of the solution or part of the problem?

You have 168 hours in your week. 24x7. It is simple math. Whether you represent a large or small company, you do not have any more or less time. So, my question is what do you do with it? Do you focus on things that really matter or are you in “paralysis by analysis” or “decision by indecision” mode?