Josh Hinds Motivation and Inspiration Journal

I’m often asked how I came to have such a positive outlook on things. First, let me assure you, I have my moments where my rose colored glasses are a bit dimmer then I’d like them to be.

That said, I do make a point to see the positive side of life whenever possible (and yes, I do believe, from my own life experience, and studying the lives of many others through the work I do that it’s a choice we make). Depending on what each individual person has gone through in their life, perhaps an easier choice then for some, but a choice none the less.

That said…

There are any number of things I do, and have done over the years to help me remain focused on the good things which life affords us, but if I had to key in on one thing that laid a foundation for my positive outlook, I believe I would have to point to how fortunate I was, from as early as I can remember, to have heard my mother say to me, “Josh, you have unique GOD given talents and gifts — but it’s up to you to explore those and develop them to the best of your ability.” Sometimes I heard it just like that, other times it took a different form, but the message, the powerful meaning of the message was always the same.

If you know my story you know that I’ve had my share of adversities and challenges. Friend, I can say without a doubt that having that important foundation in place — having fully accepted that I had unique talents, that I was not only capable of developing, but that I in-fact was expected to fully develop, helped me tremendously in having the fortitude to move past life’s challenges as they appeared, knowing that I had in me, or was capable of acquiring whatever skills I needed in order to accomplish my greater good.

If you were lucky to have had a similar such gift from people in your life, those who took the time to encourage you, take a moment to appreciate it in full. Not everyone is so lucky.

If you’re not fortunate to have had the type of positive influence I’ve outlined above, first, allow me to assure you, it’s true for you as well. If you’ve never heard it before, well congratulations, you have now, and as such you have the duty to fully develop your own gifts and talents — not partially, but to the absolute best of your ability. And don’t think you get a pass either, because you are just now being tasked with the idea of getting on with uncovering your talents.

The point isn’t when you find out — as much as that when you do, you get on with the most important task of doing what’s necessary to fully make use of those incredible gifts and talents which GOD has loaned to you. Friend, as you begin to fully develop your talents you will inevitably begin to experience a deep fulfillment for having done so. It’s quite the rush.

By the way, I understand that you may not subscribe to what I’m suggesting here – that’s fine. We’re all entitled to our own beliefs – I appreciate that we’re all individuals and have varying views. I’m not here to change your personal belief system, rather I’m sharing with you my own experience knowing full well that you can either agree or disagree — that said, I know what I believe and know what I’ve seen play out time, and time again, and yes, in case you’re wondering I have also seen it play out in the lives of those who starting out didn’t believe they had any special gifts in the least, yet in time as they went about being open to the idea, and working to develop them came to believe because the truth in the idea played out before their very eyes.

In summary, if what I’ve shared here with you is a new concept, that’s OK, but don’t put off the idea that you’ve got greatness in you and as you begin the ongoing journey of living out your greatness through your commitment to developing those truly special gifts and talents which were entrusted to you you will be better for it.

Also, be conscious of the opportunity, and when necessary create those opportunities, to encourage others by letting them know that they too have their own GOD given abilities, which they have been entrusted with to fully develop and share with the world. All sorts of powerful things happen when you encourage others in this way — and that I can tell you as it is something I’ve seen play out beyond my wildest dreams through the work I do — not the least of which is an incredible sense of fulfillment that you simply can’t put a price tag on.

It’s your life, LIVE BIG!

Josh Hinds

Starting today commit to giving your absolute  best to every task which comes your way. Rather than seeing things as a burden or menial tasks remind yourself that each is preparing you for the eventual larger opportunities which lay in store for you.

To paraphrase business philosopher, author, and lecturer Jim Rohn, you can’t just start at the top, it’s as though life is making sure you can handle the smaller tasks that are required of you, before you’re given the responsibility of having to deal with the bigger ones.

Prove you can work through the smaller things that are asked of you and before you know it, you’ll attract greater opportunity, along with the greater life rewards that come with being able to work through them.

– It’s your life, LIVE BIG! Josh Hinds

PS. Order your copy of my Success Package – Why perfect Timing is a Myth! – it’s full of tips you can use for staying motivated & inspired to achieve your dreams!

Here’s a positive affirmation you can repeat when you find yourself in need of a bit of inspiration…

“I have inside me the ability to acquire whatever skills are necessary to achieve the goals I set for myself. Through ongoing effort I am bringing into my reality the people and skills needed to achieve my own definition of success — for the good of all concerned.”

– It’s your life, LIVE BIG! Josh Hinds

PS. If you enjoyed the motivational message below, join our free motivational newsletter — Let’s Talk Motivation!

Here’s a positive thought you might consider (or even repeat to yourself) when you need a bit inspiration…

“I am vigilant when it comes to working on the goals I have for myself. I keep in mind the old saying, “out of sight, out of mind.” I write down and schedule times when I will work on the things I’ve identified as worthwhile to pursue.

Each of us has 24 hours in a day, if one person is capable of using that number of hours to pursue their goals, then I too can find the time to do so as well. I resist the natural human urge to accept excuses which attempt to convince me of all the reasons I’m too busy.

The simple truth is, I may very well be busy, life may be moving 90 to nothing, but the fact remains that if I want to reach my intended destination then I am going to have to work within the allotted time each day. I’m going to have to adjust and do the things necessary to give ample time towards achieving the success I desire.

I am as capable as anyone when it comes to manifesting my dreams. Through persistence, action, and holding on to the vision of what “success” means to me I am moving confidently in the direction of all the rewards life has in store for me.”

– It’s your life, LIVE BIG! Josh Hinds

* Josh is the author of Why Perfect Timing is a Myth: Tips for Staying Inspired and Motivated Day in and Day out! Grab your copy at http://www.getmotivation.com/successpack/

Consider the following quote if you would. I think the message it holds is well worth giving some serious thought to…

“No one ever attains very eminent success by simply doing what is required of him; it is the amount and excellence of what is over and above the required that determines the greatness of ultimate distinction.” — Charles Kendall Adams

If I might be so bold I’d like to share a thought of my own along this same topic for you to consider as well…

“The average person says “that’s not my job” — while the leader transcends their job description and inevitably reaps untold rewards for doing so.” — Josh Hinds

It’s easy to ignore the opportunities to “let the buck stop with you”, but in doing so you may be short circuiting the advancement which always makes its way to the person who goes above and beyond the call of duty.

Strive to be that person who goes above and beyond what’s necessarily expected of you and you will see more of life’s rewards making their way into your life.

It’s your life, LIVE BIG!
Josh Hinds

-What are your thoughts on the ideas above?

Instead of seeing someone who takes the time to complain about a product or service you’ve rendered as a problem, try and reframe it for what it really is – an opportunity to grow, learn, and ultimately become better for the experience.

It’s been said many times before that we grow through life’s challenges, as opposed to those times when it’s smooth sailing.
When another person takes the time to share what’s wrong in their mind be thankful, because so few people actually do. Instead they go silently into the marketplace sharing their negative experience with others.

For this reason alone isn’t it better to correct any disagreements early on? If the other person asks for a refund strive to the very best of your ability to give it without hesitation or making it difficult on them.

In virtually every case you will find that you’re always better off when the other person leaves the experience feeling good about it even if you weren’t able to deliver on what you both originally agreed upon (so long as things are made right when you part ways).

In the short-term you may feel that you’ve lost out, but in reality you have built trust and paved the path for the other person to potentially do business with you at another time. Not to mention you will be surprised by how many people will actually go about singing your praises to others as they share what a rare customer service experience they had, “with the person who really wanted to make sure I left the transaction happy”. Because unfortunately so few people take this approach, when you do so you will put yourself at a distinct advantage in the marketplace.

If you can develop the ability to render this level of service with a smile you will differentiate yourself in a positive light. The rewards for being viewed in this way among others is well worth the effort it takes to do so.

When you build trust through your actions you strengthen your character. Your character determines your influence. Your influence determines the level of success you will attain – be it personally or professionally.

It’s your life, LIVE BIG! Josh Hinds

* Josh Hinds is available for keynotes, breakouts and personal development trainings.
Visit http://www.GetMotivation.com/speaker for speaker information.

I originally planned to include the direct video in this post, but it seems I never could get it to display correctly here So if you’d like to see the video I recorded titled: Celebrating The Success of Others you can do so by clicking here.

I hope you enjoy it… And remember…

It’s your life, LIVE BIG! Josh Hinds

Make a point to ask. When we simply assume we know the answer to something there is a chance that we’re going to be incorrect. It may very well be that our feelings are misguided and that in actuality the other person is simply waiting for us to help them in their buying decision. The reality is that we aren’t mind readers — as long as we are careful to ask tactfully, are not pushy, and keep the other persons best interest in mind then we have a duty to ask.

Asking is the surest way to get to the answer you’re longing to know. One thing is for sure, not asking is certain to get the results you don’t want. Ask, you may not always get the answer you hope for, but if you don’t ask, you’re absolutely certain to get the answer you don’t want — which is only going to put you where you started. Ask, you’ve got nothing to lose, and everything to gain.

– It’s your life, LIVE BIG! Josh Hinds

Interested in having me speak to your group? Details at http://www.getmotivation.com/speaker/

“When you take the time to do the necessary research you put yourself at a distinct advantage over the masses who simply will not go through the trouble to do so. Success more than anything is being consistent in taking action where necessary, making sure the steps you’re taking will lead to the destination you desire — and when a change in course is needed the willingness to take it.”

– It’s your life, LIVE BIG! Josh Hinds

* I’m available to speak at company meetings, events, and seminars. For details go to www.getmotivation.com/speaker/

Lest the title of this article lead you to think I’m totally discounting the role that planning plays in the overall success equation, I do want to point out that I’m not against planning. Rather, in most cases it’s the order in which most people set out on the path towards achieving their given endeavors which I believe deserves reconsidering.

Have I totally confused you?

Stick with me and I believe things will be clearer in just a moment.

Most people follow a path similar to the one listed below when setting out in the direction of whatever worthwhile endeavor happens to be occupying their mind at the moment.

1. The initial idea comes to mind. They decide they want to pursue whatever it is.

2. They setout about planning and thinking about ways to accomplish whatever it is that they’ve deemed worthy of pursuing (starting to sound familiar?).

3. During the regular planning process generally one of two things begins to happen…

A. They begin to believe that by following the plan they’ve formulated they have a good chance of reaching success. From there they move forward working their plan.

OR…

B. Self-doubt begins to kick in and before they know it, they’re literally swimming in all the reasons why whatever it was that what once held promise in their mind is now suddenly something that they couldn’t possibly achieve. At this point most folks can just about hang it up, unless they’ve got someone, or they’ve developed the mindset necessary to overcome this “stinking thinking” and get their line of thought more along the lines of option A.

Fortunately, there’s another option to consider. Which is actually something I feel pretty strong about — that no matter what conventional wisdom may tell us — there’s always another way, even if it’s not always obvious.

So if that’s true, what’s the other way I can hear you asking…

Rather than taking the approach most folks choose to take…

Which is basically a Ready, Aim, Fire approach towards getting things done (i.e. achieving ones intended goals and dreams). Instead I suggest adopting the Ready, Fire, Aim approach.

The difference you ask? Look at it like this…

In the first example: Ready = your initial decision or commitment that you want to pursue something worthwhile in the first place. Aim = the planning phase of things. I won’t rehash it as we covered it in depth above. And Fire = the action which you take which ultimately becomes the difference between whether or not you get started in the first place. On it’s surface this first option is fine. In fact It has been proven to work just fine for many people.

Yet, I’m convinced the second option of… Ready, Fire, Aim would work even better.

Why? Let’s look at it like this.

You make the commitment to pursue whatever it is you’re committed to accomplishing. But rather than running the chance of letting loose that part of each of us which wants to convince us why we can’t do something, we bypass it almost completely. Instead, we lead with some real action. That is to say, we get real, honest to goodness buy-in on whatever it is we happen to be pursuing. We’re in the game so to speak.

Of course, the last step is important too, because after we’ve gotten started by taking action, we take Aim — that is we do plan. To some this might sound silly, but think of it like this. Our planning is in alignment with the importance of making corrections. Have you ever heard someone say, “what’s the definition of insanity? It’s doing the same thing over and over again.”

On a more serious note, that’s why the system I’m suggesting is Ready, Fire, Aim — and not just Ready, Fire, Fire, Fire, Fire — you get the idea don’t you? Because it is possible that in taking action first, even though taking action early on is a good thing, it is possible that the action we have chosen is well — wrong. That being the case I will say that the same end result can happen to our friends who made the choice to go the ready, aim, fire route.

You see, just because they made the choice to plan every thing out to the best of their ability prior to kicking into gear, certainly doesn’t guaranty that they’re not going to end up taking wrong actions anyway.

The big difference of course is that you and I, by making a point to lead with action, and at the same time giving ourselves the wiggle room to learn from any wrong turns we make — inevitably end up achieving in our given endeavors far quicker than those who chose to take the more common ready, aim, fire approach.

While there are any number of reasons which could lend proof to what I’m saying, about the best I can come up with is that when we set out with a sincere willingness to follow a  worthwhile goal, and are truly willing to learn whatever is required of us in order to reach the pinnacle of success in our particular undertaking, those people, events, and yes skills which are necessary show up.

There’s a saying I bet you’ve heard before — it says, “When the student is ready, the teacher will appear.” To the best of my thinking that is very much why “Ready, Fire, Aim” — gets results.

In virtually every one of life’s adventures the person who makes a choice to lead first with action, even if initially it’s little more than a sincere willingness to take action and move forward (provided they commit to learn what’s necessary along the way) will be better off than their counterparts who choose to run the risk of getting stuck in the planning phase of things.

In summary, I want to make it very, very clear that I’m not saying that planning in and of itself is the problem, rather it is the fact that most people either plan to the point that they never get started in the first place, or they allow the fear of actually doing what is necessary to get in the way — knowing they would be that much better off had they simply made the choice to step out into the unknown and gotten started sooner rather than later.

As you give thought to what you’ve just read, consider the following quote, “the doing of a thing makes it so” — throughout your day look for times when you can repeat that simple phrase and gain strength from it.

It’s your life, LIVE BIG! Josh Hinds

*Josh is an entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and author. For details on having him appear at your next seminar, event, or company meeting visit www.GetMotivation.com/speaker/

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