Take Charge – Create Your Own Opportunities
on Monday, June 1
Times like these are tough. We are living in an unusual period of time. On one hand we have government bailouts, business failures, and massive layoffs. On the other, we have business growth, new ventures starting successfully and some industry segments flourishing. One of my inspirations is a middle aged Mennonite Pacificist with a 4th grade education who found opportunity in crisis pursuing his passion during another difficult time in our history. He experienced multiple business failures. He sold the one successful venture he had (caramels) to stay true to his dream of finding a formula to make an affordable chocolate for the general public. We are all in this together. Keep moving forward!Find Inspiration
In recent conversations I’ve been asking folks about how they feel in general and specifically about their opportunities in this marketplace. What I am hearing is people are feeling conflicted. The sense of the future unknown (combined with the personality style of the individual) is a contributing factor to a more conservative approach to anything associated with risk.
My observation is that becoming more conservative is a subtle form of withdrawal. I see people withdrawing from customer contact for fear of what they might hear, to withdrawal from opportunities because the future is uncertain. As an entrepreneur and leader, it’s up to us take control of our fear, step up, and find ways to inspire ourselves and others.
Milton Hershey’s pursuit of tasty treats encouraged a nation during very difficult times. Our soldiers carried Hershey Bars in their rations in both World Wars. During the depression in the 30′s he continued to introduce new affordable treats to cheer us when times were bad. The Hershey Empire was built while he was between the age of 40-80 and many continue to benefit from his legacy today. More about Milton Hershey here.
What about you? What’s your dream? Do what it takes to find inspiration, support, and fresh perspective. If you have someone or something that inspires you, please share with us.
