Whenever you begin something new, there is always apprehension and anxiety; mainly because you are out of your comfort zone. And when things aren’t going the way you want them to go, it’s easy to start thinking about those old areas of comfort.
When I first began in this industry, I knew I was really good at selling encyclopedias—because I had been doing it for 20 years. I could have stuck with that, but the writing was on the wall that the book business was dying and there wasn’t much of a future. It was difficult for me to accept because in my mind, I felt that was all I knew.
Starting out in this business, I did pretty well. But I have to admit, there were trying times, and there were several moments when I wanted to pick up my old briefcase and go sell some books. However, I realized that I finally had come to the point where I needed to put that job behind me. I was thankful for all the fun times, the success, and all the wonderful things the encyclopedia business taught me. And, I finally came to the realization that the things I had previously learned would help me become a success in this industry.
I say all this to let you know that in order to be a success in anything, it takes making a 100% commitment. I tell everyone who comes into this business that if you are going to just give it a try, you may as well give up now. You will have difficulties, you are learning. You will get frustrated and you may even question yourself and the opportunity.
When you make a commitment that you are going to go for this 100% and you are never going to look back and you are committed to success, then you are on your way. This is the only way you will ever have it.
The first year, as I tell everyone, will be your most difficult year. Please understand that you are always going to improve. The only way somebody goes backwards is if they develop the killer disease of all success, I call it “ Negatitis.” The symptoms include excuse-making, lack of effort, lack of belief, and loss of motivation. No matter what you do in life, do everything you can to avoid that.
My encouragement for you today is to find the people who are, in life, where you want to be and simply do what they do. Find out what makes them tick. Find out about their schedules. Remember, you are who you hang around with. Make sure you are surrounded by winners who are going to lift you up and encourage you. It is absolutely vital that, if you want to have success, you find a mentor. If you don’t have one already, make the decision ASAP to find one.
Wherever you are on your success journey, please remember the past is behind you and today is the beginning of the rest of your amazing life. Enjoy every second of it, and don’t look back. Make a commitment to give this opportunity your very best. I assure you that if you do that, you will succeed. You will improve.
You will find as time goes on, your confidence level will increase and soon you will become a professional. That doesn’t mean you’re perfect and you have arrived. It just means that you are on the right track. Keep growing. Keep positive and never give up.
I’m rooting for you. I believe in you. I’m excited for you and your future. Enjoy your amazing journey of success.
RICH NORTON
Regional Sales Manager RMSNPC
www.RetrieverMerchantSolutions.com
