I took an UBER ride from the ORD airport to Itasca, IL yesterday. We starting talking about what do for a living and I mentioned I was in sales. The driver commented that he could never do sales. I commented back that everyone is in sales. In fact, you/the driver are selling me right now. Your friendliness, demeanor and ability to get me to my destination will impact your tip.  I also shared nobody likes to be sold but everybody likes to buy. The driver smiled and received a nice tip from me. Hopefully he realizes he is in sales!

Just finished watching another helpful video from Darren Hardy this morning. He has interviewed thousands of successful business people over his career. Some he could relate and others he could not. The takeaway was to focus on the methods different people and organizations take to achieve success. From my sales standpoint, my method is staying focused and consistent each day regardless of circumstances. This is especially true when I don’t feel like going through the motions.

Just received an email from a colleague who shared his appreciation for our friendship. It touched my heart! This note motivated me to continue looking for ways to encourage others as they walk through this life on earth. Pay it forward!

As we head into Christmas week, I can’t help to think about how grateful I am to have the hope of Jesus in my heart. It all started in a dirty manger with very little fanfare. It ended with a cross and three days later a risen savior who was seen by eyewitnesses. The resurrection disabled death for all believers! Immanuel- God with us!

Just watched a video from Darren Daily. He talked about setting clear expectations that will manifest in your life. I need to keep this in mind, especially in sales. Setting clear qualifying questions and goals before each call. In addition, I need to continue to expect the day to be filled with wonderful experiences and for the most part this will come to fruition.

I was reading the parable of the Good Samaritan the other day and came upon an interesting commentary. The story isn’t really centered on Who is my neighbor but rather to Be A Neighbor. I need to be aware and vigilant about the needs around me and just take action. In other words, quit talking and start doing.

Listening to a podcast by Jeb Blount yesterday. He communicated that one of the most important sales skills is to ask for the demo, appointment, sale etc. Many salespeople skirt around the issue and are not direct. I need to be assertive and be vigilant about the opportunities to ask. After all, you do miss 100% of the shots you don’t take- Thanks for the quote Wayne Gretzky.

The day after Thanksgiving is always a period of reflection and conflict for me. Thanksgiving we give thanks for all the big and seemingly little things in our lives. Most often it is the little things and family that make the most impact in our lives. As Friday arrives, all thoughts turn to the shopping centers and all the material things that appear to give satisfaction. I for one will not be sucked into this game. Instead I will look for ways to give my love in ways that reflect Christ’s teachings. Love always prevails and you cannot out give God!

Just finished another study on the prodigal son story in the bible. I always thought the story was focused on the prodigal son or his brother who did everything right. The study pointed out the focus is really on God’s unconditional love. He will always welcome us home no matter how deep the sin.

Also, I keep trying to remember that my life is best when I’m not the most important part of it.

“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Theologian Howard Thurman.