The media laps these stories up, packages them to feed our need for an uplift in these challenging times. It's become a bit of a trend. But they don't tell the whole story.
These are 3 things that are not always apparent in these stories:
- Overnight success is extremely rare. Most successes are the result of hard work over a relatively long period of time (no less than a year).
So be prepared to work hard to get your idea/business/art fine-tuned with no return on investment for a time.
- Positive thinking is not enough. Results come from competence. Competence is gained through education and persistent action.
So be open to learning new skills. It's an adventure. Enjoy being an explorer. Don't expect quick results.
Last but by no means least:
- People buy from people they trust.
No matter how good your product might be, nowadays people like to know who it came from, your story, what you are about. If you have integrity, if they can relate to you, if you can touch them, inspire them, educate them and/or entertain them, they are more likely to buy from you.
So pay attention to your online presence. Don't spam. Be prepared to give more value than you ask back. Be nice. Avoid cutting corners.
Who doesn't want to earn a living doing good things in their community and grow as a person? Its not all about money. Why do you think Bill Gates, Richard Branson, Bono, Warren Buffet etc... do so much philantropic work ? Because "there is more happiness in giving than receiving"
Seriously.
Ultimately, we aspire to contribute something positive to those around us, feel connected, make a difference.
It's all love.
The nice thing is, most people respond to love. We are built this way. Receiving love makes us feel good. Showing love makes us feel better.
Anyway, that's my view on this. What's yours?
:P