Years ago, one of the salespeople I managed gave me the book Life is Tremendous, by Charlie Jones. The book has sold millions of copies over the past 40+ years, and it’s motivational message is just as relevant today. It’s a short, easy read (around 100 pages) and I still find myself re-reading it when I need a little boost.
Charlie lists three simple steps to help create a positive outlook:
- Learn how to say something positive to everyone you meet. It may not be easy at first, but that’s why you have to learn how to do it. Once you learn, it will become easy.
- Learn how to see something positive in every situation. Instead of thinking something negative when your boss tells you that they want to talk, think something positive. Maybe they want your thoughts on a project.
- See it Big and Keep it Simple. Don’t be afraid to dream big and don’t complicate things.
Are You Excited About Your Work?
The other section of the book that really stood out to me was the first of his Seven Principals of Leadership: learning to get excited about your work. I believe that loving your work is one of the keys to finding true happiness in your life.
One of my connections here in Nashville has a tree preservation company. He and his two boys love working with trees. When they post pictures and videos of them from the top of a towering tree, you can see the love in their work. My husband is a singer/ songwriter and when I hear him practicing for hours in his office, I know there’s no place he’d rather be. David is another client of mine and he manages a payroll servicing company. He recently told me he can’t understand how some people shut off when they leave the office. He has no idea how many hours he works, because to him he’s just doing what he loves. And as I write this (on a rainy Sunday afternoon) I have the same thoughts. I’ve found my true calling in life. I’m excited about my work and I can’t imagine doing anything else.
Life IS Tremendous!
Trees, music, payroll, or sales coaching – it doesn’t matter what your line of work is, what’s important is that you are excited about it. When you love what you do, life really is tremendous.
If you haven’t read it yet, the book is available on Amazon here… (seriously, best $6 you’ll ever spend).
Until next time – go sell some stuff!
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