Up, Down And All Over The Place

As I write this the stock market is all over the place.  One day it’s up, the next it’s down.  Some days it’s both in one day.

Crazy!  Yet analysts all have theories, reasons, excuses, projections and speculation.

This week, I would like to share some thoughts – not on the stock market – but on its activity.

Are you like the stock market?

For some personality types, the extreme high and extreme low can happen in a matter of minutes.  For the rest – the high and low can be a day or two apart.  There are a few folks who are UP all the time.  And, sadly – there are folks who are down so low – they make every attempt to drag others down with them.  Misery loves company.  And if you ain’t miserable, they will help you get that way in a hurry.

So, why am I analyzing this?

Quite simply, your clients, coworkers, vendors, and even future acquaintances all see you as the world sees you.  Many of them are looking for someone who has some stability in their emotion.  They are looking for a person they can rely on.  And, if you are all over the map emotionally – guess what?  You are not their guy.

Steady your mood.  Step back from where you are and view your situation from a different perspective.  I have even see people take a walk to the break room, cafeteria, bathroom or maybe a walk around the building to clear their heads and refresh.  Use stepping away as your own way of pushing the REFRESH button.  

Notice that stockbrokers are not willing to invest in a stock that does not look like it will go up.  Similarly, potential clients, management, and coworkers are not going to be willing to put time and effort in to someone who is not going to deliver, produce, grow or improve.

Of course, there are the stockbrokers who “short” stocks in anticipation that they will “tank” even further.  Likewise, there are a few people who will take a gamble with you in anticipation that you will get out of the game and they will be right in place to take over your client base, names list, product line, etc.

Just like analysts in the stock market – we sometimes play analyst with ourselves.  We defend our lack of performance.  We make excuses out the wazzoo.  We play the blame game.

Bad move.

Remember – a wise man never counsels himself.

And, it takes different knowledge to fix a flat tire than it does to get one.

Take responsibility.  Then get advice from a mentor, a coach, a boss who is schooled and successful in your arena.

Leaders are groomed over time – they are not made overnight.

Take the first step.

Have a great week.

Ron