Tomorrow arrives quickly, yet many are not preparing for the future.
Life and career are never a straight path. It is essential we consider the ‘what ifs’ of life. A few conversations reveal what happens when a person does not contemplate all possibilities before settling into a systematic way of doing things.
The sales processmirrors real life. The proven methodology is listening before speaking. Observe clients as they talk. Once both sides answer all questions, the next phase is finding a value-driven solution. But where most salespeople err is in believing they are the only ones who have the answer.Negotiation teaches us to evaluate all the perspectives on both sides of the table first. Only then can we come to a valid conclusion. When everyone participates in providing ideas and collectively selecting the better approach, a more robust sale is usually in the making.But not everyone has sales experience. The worst part is some people believe they have all the answers for everyday life. They attempt to impart their beliefs on others. However, no one has all the answers. When we encounter these individuals, it’s sometimes best to walk away.At a later date, take the time to reflect on the opposing choices and the outcomes that follow. You may realize that
following your intuitionand walking away was the better plan after all.
The Other Side of Planning:
Story #1. Claudia takes pride in owning a large home in a highly desirable area. She used to admonish people for selling their homes and moving to less expensive areas.Before Claudia and I were able to reconnect, Richard and I did so by phone. He shared that the area where he and Claudia live became so expensive, he is now planning to move.The alarming facts come next. Owning a modest home requires one to earn at least $400,000 annually. I fact checked with someone I know well. He relayed the number is incorrect, but not as I thought. To live, work and enjoy the downtown somewhat, in his estimation, $500,000 is needed!Retired, Claudia recently admitted the only way to remain in her home was to take out a reverse mortgage. This was not her original plan.
Opposing Perspectives: The people who moved are concerned about leaving an inheritance for their families. And in the meantime, they want to enjoy their lives while they still can. A reverse mortgage contributes to the wealth only of the insurance company. Story #2. Excited to begin her entrepreneurship, Jeannie put her focus and money on building connections with revenue streams to follow. The ‘one-day’ mentality was hers for acquiring medical insurance. Unfortunately, serious illness turned her life upside down.A good friend took the lead by creating a donation site to help raise funds to pay for medical bills. After the fact, Jeannie realized the importance of having insurance.
Opposing Perspectives: Medical insurance is too expensive, and I’m healthy. Nothing will happen. If something out of the ordinary does happen, I won’t be able to pay for an X-ray let alone operation with a hospital stay.Most of us are so intent on
creating a successful career or developing a businessthat we devote little time to preparing for life’s mishaps. Just as with a sale, the better route is to examine priorities and values continually. Goal setting applies to everyday living.
What is important to you in terms of: Location Retirement Quality of LifeThe same area referred to above suffers from horrific traffic. The cost of living is very high as are the taxes. Accordingly, the homelessness situation is out of control putting a further burden on the surrounding cities.Retirement is often referred to as ‘the golden years.’ However being unprepared for a higher cost of living over time, the gold begins to tarnish. Everything you hold dear plus essentials is to be part of the plan preparing for the future.Your quality of life may include an area where you can enjoy the landscape, the town, and the people. You won’t face a financial burden going out to dinner with friends or living in a space that you enjoy. Finally, consider whether you wish to leave money to your family and a charity of choice.In our youth, it is hard to imagine we will be facing all of this one day. But as we move through our careers and life, the reality of it all becomes meaningful. Better to plan than to struggle later in life.Strive to learn something new every day not only for business but for your personal life and well-being, too. Planning for the long-term will add to your peace of mind.Related:
Are You as Future Ready as You Think? For more insights read: Do You Pause to Consider Unique Ideas? Are You Concerned About Achieving Success? Do You Let Frustration Lead You to Success? Sales Tips: Preparing for the Future
Be motivated every day to achieve your goals. Keep your long term vision with you at all times. Read online educational content Take classes on topics you wish to know more Listen to podcasts Watch videos Hire a mentor Create a peer group dedicated to exchanging ideas Stay abreast of the business news Celebrate Success! T oday’s Blog is provided to help you achieve the Smooth Sale!
