…in the world is a closed mind.” Great quote that I just picked up at a conference. The source of the quote is anonymous but it is synonymous (catchy huh?) with the way we typically approach new things. Just think about all the thoughts, suggestions, ideas, and quotes you’ve dismissed in the past (and maybe today) that cost you time, money, opportunity, relationships, energy, health, and quality of life.
Yes, a closed mind. Closed to the prospect of changing the way you think and behave. Closed to the prospect of changing the way you hire staff. Closed to the prospect of organizing your time better. Closed to the prospect of learning new ways to bring in business – or the right business. How about closed to the prospect? How about closed for business?
Heck, the only thing that should be closed when you’re in the business of bringing in business is the deal. How’s that for a quote?
So what keeps your mind closed for business when it comes to change? It’s fear, man. Fear of failure. Fear of success. Fear of the unknown. Fear of what others might think and say. Fear of trying something new. Fear of trying something old. Something borrowed. Something blue. (Sorry)
Of course, all of this pertains to the stuff in your personal lives too.
Comments
Excellent Michael ….another succient and powerful message.
Our own behavior dramatically influences our outcomes. The good news is that we have complete control over our own behavior.
Today we live in ‘a new normal’ ….it doesn’t matter who moved our cheese, what matters is that we choose to get out of neutral and be courageous enough to take that first step toward creating change.
We can open our minds through awareness - making the most of each present moment and graciously accepting all the gifts that are presented to us. It’s amazing what happens!
Thank you, Michael. It is encouraging to get thought stimulating ideas. My work environment is facing a major overhaul and refocus. Some of my co-workers are afraid that their jobs are in jeopardy. Some of us welcome the opportunity to reapply ourselves to serving others in a newer fashion. I teach my grandson to try to have a “world record” each day–do something you have never done before. How exciting it is to rise each day and know a “world record” (for me) is going to be set today.
If you are not the lead dog, the view never changes!
If your mind is closed…your doors won’t be too far behind.
Well put Michael and good insight to something that could have been haphazardly scribbled in a note pad and never referenced again!