One of the KEY areas that is often overlooked by Business Owners in addressing their business issues is to take a good long look at themselves and accept personal responsibility for what is happening to them now.
We all hear the doom and gloom about the economy, about interest rates (their recent rise by big banks) and the possibility of further rises in 2008.
So some of you may be thinking, “Well Paul, how can you be so sure that 2008 can be my best year yet?”
I can be sure because -
1. Well, we all know the media have accurately predicted 23 of the last 2 recessions!
2. You are what you are and where you are because of what’s going on in your mind
3. Your job or business security is dependent ultimately on only one person – YOU
Let me illustrate by a story…..
If the Socceroos went bust tomorrow, do you think their best players would have any trouble getting signed up elsewhere?
Q. Do you think they would get signed elsewhere because they were with the Socceroos?
Or
Q. Would they get signed elsewhere because they PERFORMED for the Socceroos?
Yes ,that’s right, because they performed.
The reality of business and employment security these days is that you only have a business or a job as long as you perform!
In fact, once upon a time, starting your own business and being an entrepreneur was seen as being risky; however, arguably being an employee in the 21st century is even riskier!
Q. Who is responsible for your performance?
Answer: YOU
Sooooooo … How Can You Be Sure To Improve Your Performance?
Well, what does Individual Human Performance (IHP) comprise?
[IA + AA] x A =IHP
Where: IA = inherent attributes = the stuff you were born with; your temperament and general mental abilities
AA = acquired attributes = knowledge, skill, talent, experience and ability that you have gained/developed as you mature
A = attitude
IHP = Individual Human Performance
NB: Thanks to Brian Tracy and his book Maximum Achievement p 60-61 for this formula.
Now let’s make a few astute observations about this formula.
OK, I know for some of you algebra was not your thing … just stick with me … it’s important. In fact it’s a revelation.
1. Your IA stuff is fixed at birth.
2. Your AA stuff you can develop and change through study and practice but it
requires considerable patience, effort and discipline.
3. Your “A” stuff is the wild card. The quality of your attitude can be improved
almost without limit. Even a person with average IA and AA can perform at a very high level if they have a very positive mental attitude.
And now, how’s your Attitude?
Well, for one thing ,those of you with your arms and legs crossed and thinking this is all BS, well we know how your attitude is - but perhaps you don’t …YET.
See….the most important conversation you’ll ever have is the conversation with yourself.
The most important opinions are the ones you have of yourself.
I am not talking about conceit, ‘cause that makes everyone sick, except the one who’s got it.
But a good self image, positive self talk etc is a healthy thing and, in fact, insofar as the quality of your life goes it’s crucial.
Tune in next week for the continuation of this series and I’ll share more about the Power of your Self Talk | 
