There are many reasons not to do something. Particularly something that may challenge ourselves or may challenge others.
With every opportunity and path to success comes some associated risk. And often the bigger the opportunity, the bigger the risk.
Even if you have a high appetite for risk, you can be sure the naysayers, doom and gloomers, or just the “safety committee” of those around you, will find the dangers lurking in you taking that next big step.
Although it is important to be aware of all possible dangers – either to prevent, circumnavigate, address or incorporate – it is far more important to keep your eye on the ultimate objective. That way you will balance any risk against the greater reward and avoid being paralyzed in a safe, no-change/no-gain territory.
As we head into the next decade and set goals for the New Year, it might be good to add a simple tool to your think-box.
I call it the 2010 rule.
For every reason you are given not to do something, find two for doing it.
If you find 10 cons against embarking on something new, set the task to find 20 reasons why you should pursue it.
By doubling the positives you will find the confidence to embark on your chosen path. By not ignoring the possible cons you can plan to overcome them.
Applying the 2010 rule requires a commitment to your new path or objective. It provides a process to move forward with your eyes wide open yet be powered by the motivation of keeping the much greater positive up-sides and potential rewards top-of-mind to keep you on track. It allows you to focus on achieving your goals and be driven by a greater objective.
As Henry Ford once said “Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal”.
May 2010 see you overcome any fears, set off on your chosen path and achieve all that you desire.
Great Read!