Speeding Down the Approach Lane

You may have to navigate through some slow moving traffic with your new idea.

Sometimes while driving, I find myself observing how some other people are driving. I am always fascinated when I am in slow moving traffic on a usually high speed freeway and see people coming down an approach lane and speeding up to 60 and 70 miles per hour in an effort to merge with the cars already on the freeway. The problem is that the cars on the freeway are doing 30 mph because of the traffic back up.

Some highly motivated entrepreneurial types with a new, exciting idea are, at times, like a driver speeding up to 70 mph to merge with a lane of traffic doing 30 mph. They are going at break neck speed with an idea or challenge, and they are extremely frustrated with the slow pace of the people around them.

The driver merging into the slow lane of traffic discovers that he is going to have to slow down a bit, navigate the slow traffic until it thins out some, and then he can put on the gas. That may be what you will have to do with your new, exciting, and dynamic idea. Merge into the slower moving people, navigate through their challenges and reservations, and then be ready to speed down the road toward achievement and success. I guarantee you that the traffic will not be as congested as you get closer to your success destination.

When You Really Want to Make a Positive Impact

When You Really Want to Make a Positive Impact

 I want to give a word of affirmation today for the consistent use of handwritten notes. We live in a culture that values staying connected. We use text messages to remain constantly connected to other people. Technology enables us to connect with people in any part of the world. I sometimes fear that we are over connected. We have an abundance of connections, but I’m not sure we are significantly connected to anyone.

 One means of significantly connecting with people is with handwritten notes. Here are some reasons that handwritten notes are such a powerful connecting tool:

• A handwritten note requires a high degree of intentionality. It’s like you are giving the person to whom you are writing your undivided attention for a period of time.
• A handwritten note requires a commitment of your time and effort. It communicates the high value you place on your connection with that person.
• A handwritten note is personal. Its content is intended for the recipient, not for the consumption of all your social media contacts. It makes your connection seem special, and who doesn’t appreciate feeling special to someone else?
•   A handwritten note is unique in a day of endless social media interaction. It’s like finding a single beautiful rose in the massive thorn thicket of overwhelming electronic communication.

 So, when you are tempted to shoot a text or email of appreciation to a friend or colleague, try writing them a note instead. When they receive and read it, they will know just how significant they are to you.