Take The Chance!

 

Fifteen years ago I took a leap of faith by starting my own business. Walking away from the security of a steady role wasn’t easy. I had been a wage earner, working for others, my entire career. I knew I wanted to build something that reflected my values and passion for helping businesses succeed. What began as a big risk quickly became one of the most rewarding journeys of my life. Well, maybe not exactly quickly, the first two years were crazy difficult. For that matter the first five were all pretty tough. I felt like we finally began to hit a stride by ten years, but it is still not easy.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with incredible clients, facing challenges head-on, and watching both my firm and the businesses we serve grow. Looking back, I’m grateful to have had the support of my wife, family, friends, my team and this community. I do not regret trusting my faith enough to take that first step.

Happy 15^th Anniversary to Blanton Advisors, LLC!

‘Til You Can’t

 

I have quoted a lot of songs in the MMM over the years, including ones from Thomas Rhett, Jerry Jeff Walker, Toby Keith, Natasha Bedingfield and of course Jimmy Buffett.  Today that honor goes to Cody Johnson, who sings a song entitled ‘Til You Can’t.

I have stated here before that I am a really bad procrastinator.  I own it.  We really need to be mindful of how costly procrastination can be.  Some things you just can’t put off forever.  Certain opportunities only last so long.  We can easily miss great chances in life if we don’t take them!  Don’t miss your dream. Don’t miss your love. Don’t leave the important words unsaid. 

Consider these selected lyrics from ‘Til You Can’t by Cody Johnson…

If you got a chance, take it, take it while you got a chance
If you got a dream, chase it, 'cause a dream won't chase you back
If you're gonna love somebody
Hold 'em as long and as strong and as close as you can
'Til you can't

So take that phone call from your momma and just talk away
'Cause you'll never know how bad you wanna 'til you can't someday
Don't wait on tomorrow 'cause tomorrow may not show
Say your sorries, your I-love-yous, 'cause man you never know

9/11

 

Twenty-one years ago, yesterday, our country was changed forever.  Those old enough, will remember exactly where they were that morning.  The attack, now known simply by the date of its occurrence, was nothing like this country had ever seen before, and hopefully never will again.  The images were, and still are, horrifying and unforgettable.  We were unified as a country, and we rallied together in the subsequent days, weeks, and months.  Unfortunately, that unity has faded away, but that is a story for a different day. 

 

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York City.  It is a fascinating collection of stories and memorabilia located at the base of the Twin Towers.  I found it to be incredibly well done, powerful, but somber and reverent.  My granddaughter, who was not even born at the time of the attacks, was riveted.  She came home with a true feel, and true feel for that tragedy that she will never get from a textbook.  I encourage you to visit there if you have the chance.

 

Don’t ever forget!

Why do we wait?

Why do we wait until people grow old, or even die, before acknowledging and praising them?  Why do we let those who have positively impacted our lives walk around without knowing what they mean to us?  What don’t we tell people when they play a role in making us who we are?  We may not all get that chance, and we should not wait.  Obituaries are a great place for tributes, but they come too late.  No time is better than the present to share with others how they have impacted your life. 

Thank people who have given you good advice.  Praise those who teach you life lessons.  Tell people you appreciate their honesty and integrity.   Let friends and family know what makes them special to you.  Share your appreciation with people who listen and mentor you.  Verbalize your love for others.  Don’t wait another day…let people know the impact that they have had on your life.