Monday Morning Match is a quick post – maybe a quote, inspirational story or idea – intended to spark some motivation inside each of you so your week gets off to a fantastic start on Monday morning.
It’s Halloween. Elementary schools will have class parties after their costume parades, Trick-or-Treaters will be out in droves seeking candy from homeowners everywhere, and Jack-o-Lanterns will be decorating most porches or patios around the land.
The question is, as you were carving those pumpkins, did you realize how many of the secrets to success were wrapped in that large orange oval?
Get inside – Be willing to open yourself up to the possibilities ahead.
Have a plan – Whether it is a simple plan with triangles for eyes and nose and a toothy grin or something more intricate, it helps when you have a plan so you know so everyone knows what you’re trying to accomplish.
Get at the guts of the issue – This is sometimes the hard part for many people, because it usually doesn’t feel good. Sometimes the “seeds of distraction” can pull us off target. It can be slimy and uncomfortable but if you don’t get deep into the heart of the issue the final product might be only a surface-level achievement.
Cut to the chase – The sharper the knife (skill), the better the results. Take action with confidence and don’t rush because sometimes if you cut off more than you wanted, you can damage the entire plan.
Attention to detail – Once the initial steps have been taken, it’s time to go back and “check your work.” Fine tune anything you can and look at things from all angles so people looking from the outside see your best work possible.
Light it up…from the inside – Inspiration usually comes from the outside but motivation comes from within. We often need to reach deep in our souls and re-ignite the pilot light we have the fuels our passion. When it is shining brightly, people can see our commitment to excellence from far away.
Put your work on display – Once you’ve done all the work and you feel good about the final product, it’s time to “pump” your chest out and let everyone see your awesomeness.
Now go do something amazing. Build relationships, solve problems and have fun. There’s no costume needed for success. It’s the same thing you should be wearing every day.