Have you heard the adage, “Fool me once, shame on you.  Fool me twice, shame on me!” and ever thought a little more about it?

It’s not just applicable to your dealings with a single individual.  It also applies to your dealings with similar situations.

The incompetent, the apathetic, the clueless, the excuse-makers – all have similar personalities, tell-tale signs and m.o.’s that you should watch out for, recognize and change your tactics appropriately.

This applies to many areas.  “How many times must I tell you….?”  your parents would say and you, in your youth and blissful ignorance would try to answer – only to find that the count rolls on (and would for many years, right?) 

One definition of insanity is to do things the same way and expect different results.  While in your youth, it was probably your parents who were driven insane by your repetitive behavior, my message today also speaks to our ignoring our instincts.  Nature honed our survival “gut reactions” over millions of years – if we had ignored them, it’s arguable that our species would be extinct today.

So the next time you’re heard saying something like “you’re right, you’re right, I KNOW you’re right” (whether out loud to someone “telling you so” or to your own screaming conscience)  Make a resolution to stop the cycle of gullibility and step up to the next level in your own evolution.

Unless you’d be interested in a bridge I have for sale….

Tags: advice, business, direction, endurance, ethics, experience, help, Life, morals, professional, reflection, Teaching

In my experience, there’s is a lot to be said for establishing strong business relationships despite any implied obligation.  “Customers for life” is a great credo.  Breeding loyalty, living by the Law of the Harvest and the Golden Rule.  If you’re not sure what these are, I’ll be happy to explain further (just let me know.)

Sadly, I have also been well educated that outside of such an approach to business, many folks subscribe to nepotism, “good ol’ boys” or other similar philosophies.  Sometimes it’s difficult to get an introduction.  People like their “circles” and one will feel thrown back to the popularity contest of high school.

At the risk of sounding jaded, I challenge you to examine your relationships and WHY you relate.  Is it just because you’re related?  Is it just because you share the same home town?  Is it just because you share the same faith?

All of these merit consideration, but should not be sole deciding factors.  A relationship of any kind should be mutually nurturing in whatever capacity it serves.  Your insurance agent may be a member of your church, but is he really looking out for your best interests?  Does he offer the best service and price?  When it comes to being a professional, IS HE?

Diplomacy in communication makes the difference between being liked and being respected.  It separates friends from associates, and “good feelings” from “weirdness”  Seek such wisdom and you won’t regret it in any relationship!

Tags: advice, business, career, professional