The Coach and his siblings love to compete...everyone of them! At Tate family reunions, we would all participate in games and races much like many families do once a year when they get together. The difference at the Tate reunions was the level of competition. Let me remind you that all the Tate boys competed at the college level in football and some went on to play at the professional level and coach in high school and college.
As a child, I knew the expectation in these family games was to give it your all no matter what! An unwillingness to try was worse than defeat. If you were going to fail at a Tate reunion race, then fail big and leave it all on the field. I learned in those early days watching the Coach and my Uncles that splashing around in any competition can teach you some important lessons: how to win, how to play, how to lose, and how to laugh. These lessons are key concepts for a happy life and a happy business.
The Tate brothers and sisters played games with gusto and never forgot the bond of family. Do you belong to a work family that encourages you to work with gusto and embraces the above mentioned lessons?
In any challenging time, you must adapt and go in to each day with a passion for the game you are playing right then at that moment. Show Up, Listen, Laugh! This is not a dress rehearsal.
How will you compete today?
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
The Power of Now
We miss so very much by not focusing on the "now". All the little details of the presenter's message...the body language, the tone of the message, or the opportunities offered are overlooked without undivided focus.
Fortunately, you can practice this skill set. There are many techniques you can embrace, but try the following simple steps first:
1. Pick the "right" location for your conversation or meeting
2. Remove distractions
3. Remind yourself out loud how important it is to concentrate on this other person's message
4. Give yourself an incentive for accomplishing the goal of focusing in this situation. I.e. If I totally focus and observe all the signals and cues being given in this meeting, then I will treat myself to a latte.
5. Work requires work so you must practice concentrating.
At your next meeting, look for cues and opportunities. Actively listen to the other party. Engage them in conversation by asking questions. Make eye contact and turn your phone off. Share your message as well. Building rapport and overcoming objections is key to the relationship and the sale.
Many try to close a sale without truly focusing on the communication first, both verbal and nonverbal. How observant are you?
Personally, I know that enhancing this skill will benefit your life physically, financially, and emotionally. Think about the many different ways to concentrate in your life. Do you agree or disagree? Let me know your thoughts. At the very least, I guarantee you different results!
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