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Quite a long time ago, during a phone call with a client who kept resisting and pushing back every nudge toward improvement in business processes, I wrote this note in my notebook…

Yes, I asked the question of my client. And I kept asking. If memory serves me correctly, I had one more conversation, then parted ways because I realized I wouldn’t be able to help him. It was sad really because the potential for greater success was evident. At least to me! Unfortunately, he couldn’t see what I could see.

And he never made a commitment. I don’t know exactly what blocked his commitment. But I did point out one major cause that was apparent. It’s likely one major cause for all of us. I’ll share it with you in today’s video show.

What’s blocking your commitment?

I often ask myself this question. Sometimes I get what seems like a decent answer, but mostly, I get excuses. How is it with you?

P.S. Here’s the quote that historically has been attributed to Goethe, but that’s not likely true according to folks who claim to know. It’s believed to be a quote from William Hutchinson Murray, a Scottish mountain climber and writer. It’s been a longtime favorite of mine. When you read it, you’ll understand why.

Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back, always ineffectiveness concerning all acts of initiative and creation. There is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans; that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then providence moves too. All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. A whole stream of events issues from the decision raising in one’s favor all manner of unforeseen events, meetings and material assistance which no one could have dreamed would have come their way. I have learned a deep respect for one of Goethe’s couplets: “Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has genius, power and magic in it. Begin it now!”

I know you think everybody has “it” figured out, but you’re wrong! Everybody encounters times where they need to figure “it” out. Because things change. Circumstances change. Situations change.

Life isn’t static.

Sometimes we feel like we’re in the ocean and the waves are constantly tossing us about. If things are calm, experience has taught us that it won’t last long.

There are a number of effective steps we can take when we’re faced with challenges to “figure it out.” Today, let me give you just 5 of them. I have found these helpful. No, I’m not a ninja at these, but I do know they work. My inadequate use of them doesn’t mean they’re ineffective. It just means I’m a lot like you. Sometimes the resistance beats me.

Self-assessment is fun. I think so.

It’s not always enlightening, but anytime I see a self-assessment exercise or questionnaire, I’m suckered into doing it.

I’m weird like that. (And in other ways, too.)

Natural aptitude is a fascinating topic. Today’s show is about just one aspect of natural aptitude.