Some of my lessons are new, others are repeats, some are old with a new twist. Either way, these are things learned last week.
- Take time to do what needs to be done and take time to play
I’m working on getting goofy fun back in my life. - Watch educational movies
You will experience an information overload, but you will come out so much more smarter. And, if you get a chance, be sure to watch anything by Michael Moore. He is enlightening, witty and courageous for the topics he presents. He’s one of my new favorites. - You Are Your Business. Present Your Best Self at All Times
My friend told me that I had to dress a certain way every where I go because I am my business. As much as I don’t like it, it’s true. Now, I would never be a straight bum, but there are times when I just want to wear too big jogging clothes, torn gym shoes and anything else that makes me comfortable. I would still look decent.
Well, I was in Borders and saw someone who represents herself as “high society” with her underwear showing tastelessly and two small clothes. She looked a hot mess. Now, I fully understand what my friend meant. - Everyone has an opinion
It is up to you to consider the source and determine the value of the information. - Social media is a necessary annoyance
It is great for legitimate business and informational purposes, but I do wonder about the level of honesty presented. And you do have to be careful about what you say and how you say it because the world is watching. - Say what you need to say tactfully and respectfully
I was having a conversation with a colleague, and he mentioned that I had increased my prices. He asked, “What happened to your nonprofit rates?” Dude, that was a favor. I was charging him less than $50 per hours for projects. That’s charity. If I want to work for rates like that, I can get on other people’s payrolls.
Later in the conversation, I was telling him about my Shorty’s Caring Campaign. He asked me when I was going to highlight his organization. I had to remind him that as much as I enjoy helping people, very few people are offering to help me in anything I do. All I need is a short story for one of my blogs, a little research or even a link to story. Heck, send me a YouTube video or image to take the load off for one day. - Your ideas can’t be stolen if you don’t say anything
Putting tact to the side: Just shut up! - Know what you know and hold tight to it
- My business ventures are my babies and it’s OK to talk about them
If I can listen to people talk about their children and pets ALL day – which I don’t mind within reason, they should be OK with me talk about my businesses – within reason. - Opportunities don’t go away, they go to someone else
I am working on two ventures that are great opportunities. One is in the early stages and the other is totally groundbreaking. People keep asking me if I am doing too much. Possibly. But I do know that if I don’t make moves, even in small increments, those opportunities are going to other people. And that would be sooooooo stupid on my part if I allow that to happen.
Those were some of my lessons. What were yours??