I'm going to share a little insight about me that is likely not like you at all so bear with me. During the last year when things have really slowed down for me I have discovered (again) one of the hardest things for me to do. Wait. I hate to wait. Period. Waiting and patience are not one of my virtues. Ask my wife. No, don't.

I don't like slow waiters when I'm eating out; I don't like long lines, or traffic jams, late planes, untrained pets, slow economy, dumb people, and you can add to the list.

You would think at the ripe old age that I am now, I would have figured out this thing called waiting. Oh no buffalo. Not me. In fact, I have learned to complicate it. How?

I found out that by pushing forward or forcing the situation only makes matters worse. I'm finding out that timing is critical. During this past year in seeking new opportunities to consult with individuals or companies, I have discovered I can't force myself in. I have to wait. Even when I know I can help or lend insight or assist them to the next level, no amount of force will get me in. So what do I have to do? Wait.

Why? Because I have learned forcing one's way in, leads to tuning one out. So wisdom says wait.

I should have learned this lesson after raising two wonderful kids. Every time I tried to force my way into their teenage lives, guess what happened? I'm out. It's the same with consulting, or any situation I'm aware of, if you push yourself on someone else, some other company, or situation you're like a third strike in baseball. You're out. Same with coaching, leading, or managing people. Try forcing your way in or your opinion on to them. See where that gets you. Guarantee it won't be a hit.

I think I read something about this in an old book. It says something like, "There is an opportune time to do things, a right time for everything...." Note the words opportune and right time. I didn't see the words right now.

But you're not like me. You don't mind waiting. Wish I were like you. 

 rb

This brief 2 minute video will bring a smile to your day. Like the allegedly 'lost iphone" at the bar this week, Coke came up with a great marketing idea. Instead of passing out free Coke, they "set up" a Coke machine in a student commons area of a university. It only takes a small amount of change to bring out great smiles. It's a good lesson in living for you and me.