When I started Business Marketing Engine back in late 2007, I didn’t know we were entering the housing market crash and recession of 2008.
These are the unforeseen storms of life.
While I wish we didn’t have these storms, they are, in fact, a gift from the universe.
“Why are they a gift,” you say?
Because, the contrast shows us where we stand and who we really are.
The measure of a leader, a business, a community member, a family member, or a friend, is displayed by how they react when the storm comes.
Without adversity, we don’t know our true level of skill. We don’t yet know what we can withstand.
Muhammad Ali once said, “I hated every minute of training, but I said, ‘Don’t quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion.’”
As I reflect on 2007 and 2008, I certainly don’t want to relive those times. However, I’m eternally grateful for the knowledge and experience gained.
Why? It’s prepared me better for today.
That training prepared me to become a champion for my team, my clients, family, and friends.
When Rachel joins me in the office, often she asks what I’m up to, mostly I respond by saying, “Doing the work.”
But she already knows…
It means:
– Being kind
– Showing up to serve everyday
– Developing to build more empathy
– Finding ways to improve upon skills
– Adding more value to those who surround me
– Leaning into hard problems head-on with love and courage
The best way to “get through” this time is to hunker down, and “do the work.” While this phase of life may have challenges, it’s a gift.
It’s a training camp for the next big opportunity that’s coming your way. It’s the next big opportunity for you to serve those who need you. So, settle in and join me in “doing the work.”
You CAN do it. It will lead to something incredibly valuable.
It will prepare you for a better future.
