What Does It Mean to Be a Shaggy-Haired Cheerleader?
Back in the day, an industry publication once called me a “Shaggy-haired cheerleader.” Nothing could have made me happier.
It was an article about a business where I was a founding partner back in the mid-90s. It was an early web retailer...(omnichannel, we just didn’t know that term then)…with an incredible team of explorers charting new territory by applying best practices enhanced by the new tech enablers.
The irony was that we were fighting the BS of a bunch of charlatans. Some were analysts (more than one got busted). Some were “visionaries” (more than one went bust). Some were just plain crooks (more than one got away), who, amongst other things, convinced markets that factories would produce and ship one item at a time to you. Ergo, warehousing was dead, marketing was irrelevant (just show a picture), and on and on.
I spoke at big industry events, debated analysts on panels, wrote whatever, and watched. In those days, during the “bubble,” stupidity took hold, and real business took a back seat…actually, the slow lane with a donkey. In the end, we all know what happened, and sanity won—more or less.?
But I remained and still am a CHEERLEADER…shaggy-haired (to my wife’s dismay) and optimistic to the core.
All of this leads me to a beloved quote from a cherished source...Helen Keller:
“Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”
I’ll add another great quote (a TWOFER for this week)…
“Perpetual optimism is a force multiplier.” —Colin Powell.
And there you have it. Optimism is faith…it enhances and enables.
So be the Cheerleader (regardless of hairstyle) in your group. Don’t get sidetracked by the naysayers or let the negative nabobs get you down.
Have Faith! It’s powerful!!!
What’s your view??
Crafting high-performing websites and content that build brand and customer trust ???? The Digital Strategist ?? I can help you establish a compelling digital presence ?? award winner
7 个月A great reminder about finding the silver lining. The way I look at it a shaggy hair is a bonus not everyone has to enjoy. I love the quote: “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.” Borrowing it as my go to when things get rough. Thanks for sharing. David
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson at Compass
7 个月When I read the header, I figured it referred to you. And if not, then Maddie my golden retriever. Love you both.
AI, ML, Data Science Consultant/Advisor, blue chips and start ups. Mathematical thinker. AI R&D with application to business strategy and business process valuation. Keynote speaker. Coffee drinker.
7 个月Justified optimism, yes. Just being positive and cheery isn't enough (even if it "works"). T.
Group Account Director at DMW Worldwide LLC
7 个月Optimism, positivity, and a "can do" attitude are required to get anything moving forward. They are the antithesis of all those employed in the "Sales Prevention Department." (Or the Innovation Prevention Dept.)