The Lies We Tell Ourselves
As an entrepreneur, we’re challenged by a ceasless number of pessimists, as I call them. These pessimists are the people and forces that seem to torture our very existence as business folk trying to change the world. It’s sad to say, but there’s generally far more working against you than for you - but then again, what fun would it be if it was easy?
Last week, I came across the blog (Let The Good Times Roll) of someone I really admire, Guy Kawasaki. I’ve written about it here a few times in the past and definitely have to recommend his new blog since it’s proven to be both educational and highly entertaining.
Guy’s got two really interesting pieces up that are making the rounds:
I won’t bother to add to these lists - I think they’re well written and make their point. I guess I am actually interested, at least to some degree, in the role these lies play in our survival. I’d be willing to bet that, despite these lies, they serve as a small reserve of fuel for us when we’re plowing through endless nights. Maybe it’s a little lie, maybe we’re a little delusional but I’ve met very few entrepreneurs who aren’t.
Now, I’m not saying we should lie to ourselves on purpose - we shouldn’t. We should be as honest as possible with what we’re doing at all times. However, what seems to be masked here is passion at its best. We allow our passion to wash the truth in many ways and that changes our worldview on lots of things. Sure, I’m guilty of it and I’ll be damned if it doesn’t make me work the slightest bit better.
Running a business is like steering a ship. Every day we encounter waves and icebergs. It’s easy enough to ignore the manage either when you’re looking, impossible if you’re not. Just remember, ships don’t run on salt water.