Great Idea Maybe I Should Check in with My Friends First or Not?

Have you ever noticed that when you need a reminder or a kick in the pants, it shows up? Literally, I was reminded to keep focussed on my goal and to not be distracted by shiny objects or distractors. What I mean by distractors is unsolicited advice. Colleen Francis, President and Founder of Engage Selling Solutions spoke at our Canadian Association of Professional Speakers - Edmonton Chapter meeting recently and shared excellent advice for all. I couldn't wait to write about what I learned.

Colleen Francis & Debra Kasowski

No matter what your goal or dream is, you need to continue to take steps toward it; even when you are unsure if everything will work out. How will you ever know if you never try? People will always have their own take on whatever it is your dream or goal may be. Remember it is their interpretation from their own experiences and not yours. Colleen stressed that advice should only be considered from "people you respect and who have been there." People who have been there can share their successes, mistakes, and their take aways with you so you can learn from them.  As for the others she said, "Don't listen, if you want to do it, DO IT!"

So you have a great idea...how many people do you have to check in with before you take steps toward it. Several people check in with family and friends only to be dismayed with their lack of understanding, support, or enthusiasm. Who it really should matter to, is you. Here are some of the steps that Colleen suggested when trying out new ideas:

1. IMPLEMENTATION Create your plan of action and implement it to the best of your ability. 
2. TEST Test your ideas and make adjustments where necessary.
3. EVALUATE RESULTS Did your ideas work? Maybe you need to make more adjustments by adding something or taking something away or perhaps you have to try something completely different.

I am sure you have tons of ideas waiting to be implemented but you may be hesitating to act on them for the fear of failing or being rejected. How do you know you will fail? Maybe your success comes when you think you know you will fail and you are WRONG! You could just hit the jackpot!

Now that would be something to celebrate, go out and try your ideas. Keep focussed on your end game.