I read a great quote from David Ogilvy whose commitment and professionalism forever changed the advertising industry.
"Don't bunt. Aim out of the ball park. Aim for the company of immortals."
Sound advice. How often do I make a concerted effort to "aim for the company of immortals"? Most of the time I'm just trying to get through the day and accomplish my mundane tasks with the more inspirational things sandwiched inbetween and often squeezed out. How often do I forget the importance of daily disciplines in the big picture? How often do I bunt to get by instead of full out 200%?
Too often.
A question I often ask my students is "Can you eat an apple in one bite?" They usually laugh, look at me like I'm nuts then say "No, of course not!" Now, if you eat it in bites, the answer is obvious. Daily disciplines are the bites, eating the apple is the goal. If I keep at it long enough, everyday goals are achieved and I'm hitting it out of the park. Will I hit it out of the park, the first time I try? Most likely not.
If I work at it, eventually - Yes.
It all comes down to the little choices I make every day. Jack Canfield, the author of the "Chicken Soup for Soul" books, says that the number one reason people don't achieve their goals is NOT TAKING ACTION. By taking action, even small ones, I am announcing that I desire and am ready for growth and success.
My goal is to take action. I don't want to be distracted by analyzing, planning, organizing and talking, I want to move forward. Now analyzing, planning, organizing and talking all have their place, but if they are hurdles to be overcome, than they have become obstacles instead of tools to help propel me forward.
For example, this Blog is an exercise in the little bites of discipline. I've been writing a book which has come to a standstill. So, my personal challenge has become to make space to write a little everyday. Ta-da! A blog fits the bill.
Right now, it seems there are many diverse challenges and goals to grow through, take action on and achieve both personal and professional. How am I working on these seemingly insurmountable tasks?
One bite at a time. Eventually the apple will be consumed, that ball hit out of the park, the mountain top achieved.......you get the picture.
A beautiful start, Holly! You're a great writer! I can't wait until you finish your book! Musings on the topic: I've found that if I get up before everyone and start my day with an activity that supports my #1 value (which right now is finding peace), come what may in unexpected, urgent and pressing challenges that often derail my intentions for the day, I can go to bed at night feeling positive about my walk through life most of the time. Wishing you all the best with your apples!
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