Who or what means something to you? What would you do for that thing
or person? These are just two of the questions with which I've wrestled in recent days. I am still wrestling with them, with
how to solve them - to approach them effectively - and get the outcomes I greatly and sincerely desire.
You see, this week I spent time in the presence of greatness. Great sales
people. Great leaders. Great friends, even. I learned things; I practiced my own skills, at sales and at more general interpersonal
relations. I was once again reminded that no matter how good you may be at something, you can always use a refresher
course in the "basics." I saw clearly some areas where I need improvement; I was also reminded of some where I am pretty sharp
and need to have confidence in my abilities. It was a good week.
The question now is what to do about the major situations before
me. I sought advice from several people this week who have meant a lot to me over a number of years, and whose counsel I trust
absolutely. I will heed their advice. I was also counseled more informally by newer friends and confidants; their suggestions
were of equal worth. Most everyone had the same general suggestions and all had the same support for Carrie Neal. I appreciated
that.
I also realized, perhaps most importantly, that my gut-level radar is
on-target. I can read cues and pick up on signals, and the feedback I got this week largely matched what my brain and
heart have been telling me. That I know what I can do and want to do, that I know who and what I love, and that I have to
trust my instincts and have confidence in myself - and that I fundamentally do have that strength of self. Now, I have
to go convince those who need convincing that I want these things. I have to go do. And I will.
