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!

Experiences

 

Two weeks ago, the MMM talked about how life experiences make us who we are. Another aspect of that concept is how we use those experiences to help others.

We all have a story. We all have experiences. Don’t waste your story. Someone needs to hear that story. They may benefit from hearing how you made it through. We have overcome challenges. We have significant accomplishments and lesson learning failures. We have conquered, learned, persevered and grown. Those experiences make up our story. Don’t waste the opportunity to share your story.

“One day my story will become some else’s survival guide”

-         Unknown

 

*Portions of today’s MMM come from Rick Torrison of Right Now Leadership, LLC

Fight Fire with Fire?

 

There is an old saying that states, "You have to fight fire with fire".  I am not sure that is always true, nor wise. When the fire is an argument or disagreement, adding more fuel is not helpful.  If you take the analogy literally it would seem that you should fight fire with water, after all that is what puts out fire.  Fighting fire with fire escalates arguments and wastes energy.  It can make existing problems larger, hotter, more volatile.  The use of calming water can make them smaller, cooler, more manageable.  It may even put the fire out entirely. 

Be calm when dealing with a difficult situation, don't spread the fire.  Consider using a dose of cool, calming water the next time you have a fire to fight.

How do you define success?

Success is defined by each of us in different ways.  It should be a very personal definition, not shaped by others' opinions, the media or society.  It should include components of faith, family and helping those around us.  Success should be viewed as a journey and not a specific destination. It likely changes over time and with age It does not have to include financial or materialistic goals, although it may.  Success is simply a recipe for contentment.  What is your definition of success?  Below are a few good keys in my mind...

• Be comfortable with who you are
• Leave the world a better place
• Be a positive influence
• Tell the truth
• Get mad but don't be stupid
• Be a giver not a taker
• Seek God
• Be kind
• Have and accept grace
• Be humble