-Mother Teresa (1910-1997)
Macedonian missionary
Nobel Peace Prize winner

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Give more thought…

We don’t test things. We do things.

Testing something carries a subtle implication that we’re not going to be accountable to our results — a kind of caveat to any potential failure suggesting that it’s okay if our efforts don’t produce positive results because "it’s just a test."

In reality, we do things and then evaluate the results (it failed, it succeeded, it was mediocre at best, etc.).

Starting with a "test" isn’t a commitment to success.

Avoid testing. Commit.

(semantics matter)

>>Marketers… see if you can go a day without using the word test.

-Mother Teresa (1910-1997)
Macedonian missionary
Nobel Peace Prize winner

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Give more courage…

If you have the time, Honda has 8 minutes on how failure is a part of success (on the track and in business).

Only 30 seconds? Here’s Michael Jordan’s reminder.

(Got a favorite? Email us.)

–Mother Teresa (1910-1997)
Macedonian missionary
Nobel Peace Prize winner

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Give more challenge…

A simple challenge where everyone wins (you and those around you). No risk. No additional time required.

Within the next three weeks, set a 2-day period as your days (or your team’s days) to inspire others. Two days where you’ll put on blinders to anything negative and be the one in the office who everyone else can count on for words and actions that inspire and encourage. Two days where you’re the light for other people – your colleagues, your customers – no matter what.

Allow nothing negative and focus only on your service to others.

Once you set your two days, fully commit to the effort regardless of the inevitable challenges, regardless of the weather (please, never the weather). Fall off the inspirational horse at 2:11 on the first day? Get back on at 2:12 – no excuses.

Remember, you wake with an option for your daily attitude. Challenges will come up regardless.

Choose positive. Spread it for two days.

Get Smoving.

Not only will it be contagious… it might become a habit.

(Who could do it with you? Forward this idea to them.)

Today’s quote is available on note cards.

–Mother Teresa (1910-1997)
Macedonian missionary
Nobel Peace Prize winner

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Give more time…

Think about your schedule. Starting or leaving on time – whether it’s at work, at a meeting, or at an event – is what’s expected.

And if we do only what’s expected, we can be fairly sure we’ll rarely enjoy any special result.

A couple of quick questions…

1. Of the 20 or so days you work each month, how many times do you start earlier than is expected of you?
2. How many times do you work longer hours than are required?

To start early and go long sends a message of purpose, commitment, and respect-to others and yourself- and assures better results over time. To be even one minute late, or rarely be challenged ending your day on time, sends a completely different message.

Get lost in your service to others. Give more and you’ll enjoy more.

(from Smile & Move)

-Mother Teresa (1910-1997)
Macedonian missionary
Nobel Peace Prize winner

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Give more thought…

Always seeking certainty before taking action can severely limit productivity. In some cases, the evaluation and search for certainty is more costly than a potential failure due to action.

Worst case scenario for a wrong move is generally nothing more than an education.

Consider getting in the game a bit earlier the next time an opportunity arises… and risk the uncertainty.