The Construct of You
Most of us have worked really hard on something at one point or another. It could have been using Legos to construct your first architectural masterpiece as a kid, excelling your way through college, or even developing your first business as an adult. However it happened, most of us probably know what it’s like to apply all of our time, talent and passion towards something we want, but how many of you consciously thought about what you were building within yourself while you pressed each piece of hardened plastic together, or got rejected by yet another Venture Capitalist firm?
The milestones we reach, the accomplishments we attain, and the visions we actualize are important, but many of us forget to develop ourselves with intention while on these journeys. While developing an innovative new product, it is important to way the risk, source high-quality materials, and have a great go to market strategy, but it is equally important that you actively think about the most valuable product you can ever create…you!
Albert Einstein said, “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” Those words are priceless in an age where it seems like everyone is working on creating the next big thing. Here are a few tips to help you become your own greatest masterpiece!
Think outside the box! Sometimes when working on a project we get tunnel vision. We focus only on what will help us get one step closer to the end goal. Zoom out a bit and entertain opportunities that may help you gain a new skillset, make a new contact, or learn a new lesson. Even if it takes your eye off the prize for a minute.
Don’t fear failure! Failure is simply something not happening as you had planned it. Accept the fact that experience yields value when it comes to the development of yourself as a product. With every failure comes an opportunity to rewrite your story.
Know thyself! Spend time meditating on all the ways you could help others. If you know you are a great connector or ideator, then recognize that and start to search for opportunities to not only develop your abilities but apply them.
Develop selective listening! While you are on your journey many people will have opinions and thoughts about your path. Pick and choose who you listen to. Most of the time people will critique what you are doing based on their own insecurities, or because you are moving at a pace they are not familiar with.
Sometimes in business you just need to jump in the river and see where it takes you. ~ Todd “Homer” Holmes