Courage, Brains and Heart

Most of you know that I love The Wizard of Oz. I was reading an article today that, while not about the Wizard, talked about having to have courage, brains, and a heart to be a successful business person. What an excellent opportunity to write a blog!!!!

As a 35+ year business owner and coach to over 1000 businesses throughout the years, I know for a fact how true that statement is. It takes more than a ton (no exaggeration) of courage to face the fears that everyone has when starting – and running – a business. I wake up every day and think what new fear will I face today? Traveling today for a meeting we had to drive through nearly non-visable conditions due to fog. And the idiots driving without headlights didn’t help either. Now that was scary. But it was a business meeting and we weren't about to miss it.

That’s just one little fear. I could go on and on but I think you get the idea.

Then there’s brains. What do brains have to do with anything? Well, let’s see. I think I want to sell air conditioners to Eskimos. That should be a good business, right? Probably better think about that idea before investing a whole lot of money. You might be bankrupt soon, otherwise. When you don’t think about things, learn things, ask questions, find out what your customers want, how do you deal with vendors, employees, etc. you probably will not have a successful business.

And then, what about heart? Unless it’s Valentine’s Day, what do hearts have to do with running a business? In today’s business world, it’s all about relationships. First, if you don’t have a heart for what you’re doing you might as well just have a job. You need passion and love for your business or else sooner or later it will fail or you’ll tire of it and quit.

As well,?you have to treat your customers (and all who come into contact with you) with caring and consideration. People these days are smart and they are looking for authentic, real people who care about the world around them and the people they serve – yes, serve. How often do you hear about the heart-centered business? Often lately.

It took traveling to Oz for the lion, scarecrow and tin man to find their courage, brains and heart. Please don’t wait to go to Oz to find yours. It’s already inside you – just click your heels together 3 times and then put in the work to find them in yourself. I guarantee this will help your business grow.