This was supposed to be a column where I share with you how to get clients using some superpower strategies and tools.

Then I sat down to write this. Thankfully, the amazing Kelly Faloon, The Wholesaler’s managing editor, emailed me yet again to remind me I’m late and need to get an article in! Why she puts up with me, I don’t know, but I appreciate her so much for it. I reflected for a moment and decided I’d do a column on consistency. Ultimately, this is the thing that breaks down the most for companies looking to build predictability into anything, whether it be sales, service or brand awareness.

I began writing and just tossed it all out. And that’s OK.

This is the February issue, assuming I get this in to Kelly before the end of the day. (I did!) The new year gives a fresh start of sorts. For whatever reason, it takes a date on the calendar to motivate people to make some positive changes.

If you’re like most people, the new year triggers a moment of inspiration where you’re finally going to _____________ (fill in the blank).

You’re going to crush those sales numbers, make 50 sales calls every day, start that fitness program (again), change careers or launch that business you’ve been mapping out for the past two years.

Whatever your situation, I thought I’d take the time to do what I can to bring some clarity, inspiration and, possibly, fear-crushing confidence. I don’t know. Honestly, I’m afraid to write these articles. That’s probably why I procrastinate so much.

Will you be impressed by my marketing acumen and the creative way I weave the words together on this page? Will this inspire you? Or am I about to embarrass myself? Will you even read this? Even worse, the imposter syndrome creeps in and I wonder if I’ve earned the right. Why should you even pay attention to this in the first place? 

The mind can be your greatest supporter or worst enemy. For me, this is day to day.

#Honesty

An interesting thing happens as you get older. You begin to lose people. You begin to lose the superstars you looked up to as a kid, friends, loved ones and even those who only touched your life for a moment.

It’s inevitable for every one of us. But we’re built, somehow, to block it out as though there is always next year, next month or even tomorrow.

When I was 27, my college roommate passed away in an automobile accident. He was an incredible guy. A week earlier, we traded insults in the way only best friends can and appreciate being on the receiving end as much as dishing it out.

Todd was gushing over his newborn son. I, of course, expressed my sincere hope that his son avoided the physical flaws of his father. It was hilarious. The truth is I was proud of him, and he knew that.

The day Todd passed, I changed. Maybe it was the reality that it ends.

Everything.

Maybe it was because we were so close, or the way life just goes on without missing a beat.

I don’t know. But what I do know is this: I’ve looked at every single day since that moment as bonus. It’s all bonus.

I share this story to inspire you to do something remarkable. Take a chance. Become comfortable being uncomfortable. Be different. Be you. Try, fail and try again.

Over my career, I’ve seen some of the most talented people and teams water down something that would have otherwise been spectacular because they were afraid.

I’ve seen peers and friends stay in jobs that made them miserable so they could buy stuff they don’t need to impress people they don’t even like.

I’ve watched more than my share of business people make moves to enrich themselves at the expense of those who once helped them climb the ranks and improve the lives of their families.

The idea of self-preservation, or protecting yourself from any real danger, is fantastic if we’re cave dwellers at war or there is a dinosaur looking to feast on you should you wander off into the unknown. But today, those baked-in fears are nothing more than uncomfortable situations you believe will cut the safety net right out from under the future you are so convinced is inevitable.

Every day is a bonus. It’s an opportunity for you to write, direct and act in your very own movie. If you’re going through a challenging time, as hard as it may be, I encourage you to embrace this chapter. You get to go through it! If you are riding high on success, embrace it and share it with others.

This year is an opportunity for you to change for the better, whatever that may be for your situation. It’s a bonus round where you get to push yourself beyond your comfort zone and closer to something you never thought possible.

Because the little voice in your head holding you back from writing that article, starting that business, changing your career, staying in that relationship, holding back on the spectacular marketing or sales approach, picking up that phone to say sorry, making more time for those you love, is trying to convince you it’s all too dangerous. It will convince you that your ego, pride or finances you’ve worked so hard to protect will be at risk.

The voice will convince you that if you keep doing what you’re doing, you can shield yourself from danger and ensure you are not only safe but solidify your position in the future.

I’m not trying to inspire you to be careless. What I’m trying to do is ensure the idea of protecting yourself from being careless doesn’t become an excuse holding you back.

Make this year something truly special. Do something you’re afraid to do. Become comfortable being uncomfortable.

I’d like to personally welcome you to your bonus round.