As we reach the final chapter of 2010, we surely have a lot to reflect on. But this is no time to look at the “should have, could have”, or the boring old “have you reached your goals” speech. Rather I would like to discuss a quote I recently came across:
“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” (TS Eliot)
It struck me that this quote, aligns so well with our belief structure as a business, our tag line, which also doubles up as our service promise, says it all, “Beyond Expectation”.
We can relate this to experience, business structure and vision. But that just sounds like a bad sale pitch. I would rather put it down to attitude – the kind of attitude seen in all successful entrepreneurs. Yes, I am blowing our own horn a bit, but why not. I am proud of the fact that we get it right.
Attitude has been our saving grace in difficult times. Attitude has been our “magic” ingredient when winning tenders, or signing new business. Attitude rubs off on those around you, from suppliers to staff, and in the end creates an environment of like-minded people. I believe this to be one of the key ingredients to sustainable success – both from a business and personal viewpoint.
“Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” This means that if you push boundaries, through success or failure, you learn valuable lessons that, if implemented, can benefit your business tenfold. But, this comes down to much more than just experience. Attitude is our companion along the journey. It is the entity cheering you along when the light at the end of the road seems out of reach.
A bit philosophical perhaps, but I choose to see it as a creative approach towards positive solutions and outcomes. Attitude, in this instance, means not giving up, not giving in and being open to change, while sticking to your guns. Attitude without faith and vision is like a dream that keeps jumping from one scenario to the next. This is the difference between “talkers” and “implementors”.
Talkers will always sell you a new venture; promise the world, while delivering a fart in the wind. implementors sell transparency, through this, delivering on every promise – they can do this, because they have nothing to hide. An implementor with attitude that knows how far to go and is the type of person you want on your team. Be it as a supplier, employee or leader. If the recent economic crisis taught us anything, it is that the need for transparency has never been as important.
So, as you prepare for 2011, consider this, attitude is a habit and so is winning.
By Clifford Blackburn – CEO TSI
