Being There When It Counts
with Rick Itzkowich
with Rick Itzkowich
Here are two vastly different definitions for the word "edgy:"
1. nervous, apprehensive
2. creatively challenging; cutting edge; leading edge
It’s interesting that both definitions can be so different, and yet, so accurate. In fact, I grew up in a household that was definitely "edgy." My father and my mother both embodied the above definitions, with my father representing the former and my mother the latter. Needless to say, the marriage ended up in divorce.
I believe that while many of us aspire to be "edgy #2," we operate mostly from "edgy #1." Which, I think most will agree, is really quite a shame.
I was born and raised in Mexico. My father constantly used quotes, sayings and proverbs to communicate with us. "You’re better off asking for forgiveness, instead of asking for permission" was one of his favorites. And yet, it was my mother who chose to live this way. And, I must say, she has had by far the more interesting life.
So what about you? Which do you tend to ask for more often, permission or forgiveness?
In my business, we work with people’s thinking to help them create extraordinary lives. This means we constantly challenge their thinking patterns and beliefs. Most of the people who attend our courses, experience a gap between the life they are living, and the one they truly want to live. They are definitely attracted by the idea of living an "extraordinary life," but they are held back by their fears, doubts and "what ifs."
Having lived in both edgy #1 and edgy #2 worlds, I can definitely say that edgy #2 is a far more exciting place to play. However, it does come at a cost. With this type of edgy, you will sometimes step on people’s toes and cause them to be upset with you. You will sometimes get in trouble, and you will sometimes get criticized. That’s part of the price of admission. Trust me, it’s worth it!
Case in point, as I’m writing this article, I just received a message from someone who was not happy with the opening on an email message I sent. As I re-read the headline – it was definitely edgy #2. I could see how the subject line could be negatively interpreted the way he did, and why he was not happy. I immediately addressed his concern. I emailed a short four sentence response that explained my intent. I sincerely apologized for having stepped out of line, and I reassured him that I was very much in support of his organization.
What we also forget though is that edgy #1 also has costs. The costs are reflected in living boring lives, having shallow relationships and mediocre businesses. People who live in edgy #1 territory often seldom take action and make things happen. There is a huge cost to living with this mindset.
I have a reputation of being a straight shooter and being very direct. I also have a very dry sense of humor. Between these two traits, I tend to offend some people. If I ever offend you, please accept my pre-apology. Remember, I’m just being edgy!
Here's this month's QuoteAction:
" I will guarantee you that the day you step outside your comfort zone by making success your goal is the day you discover that adversity, risk, and daring will make life sweeter than you ever imagined."Mark Burnett, Founder of the Eco Challenge
Your action is to do something that is outside of your comfort zone.
Enjoy an Extraordinary Month!
Click *here* to find out more about QuoteActions and some of the other innovative products and services offered by THE NATIONAL NETWORKER.
As the creator of the QuoteActions, a unique relationship building system, Rick Itzkowich finds his articles, podcasts and blog messages regarding keeping your brand "top of mind" in high demand. His latest eBook, Social Networking for Business Profits, uses cost-effective follow up strategies. Rick is also the Co-founder and Vice President of Productive Learning & Leisure, a personal development training company for corporations and individuals. Rick can be reached at rick@productivelearning.com.
For more about Rick Itzkowich, please click here.
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