Tag Archives: Chinese Proverb

“To know the road ahead, ask those coming back.”

Posted on by

“To know the road ahead, ask those coming back.”

– A Chinese proverb

As a coach, one of the common projects I help people with is starting a new business.

Approximately 80% of business efforts fail in the first five years. Starting a business can be both an exciting and scary time. Thoughts such as “What if this happens..?” “I don’t know how to …” and general fears of the unknown often cause lots of false starts and second-guessing.

The good news is that few new ventures are without examples of people who’ve been there and done that.

Exercise:

Do your homework well before you jump into the deep end, and study the efforts and outcomes of others who’ve gone before you. This way, you can take the good and leave the bad on your journey.

To dramatically improve your odds, I strongly suggest you seek the support of mentors, coaches and supporters with a track record of success.

“Behind every able man, there are always other able men.”

Posted on by

“Behind every able man, there are always other able men.”

– Chinese Proverb

Whether you read the acknowledgements section of a book, observe an acceptance speech, or observe someone who looks back on a life well lived, one thing is clear: no one accomplishes anything great alone.

Who are the family members, mentors, colleagues, coaches, advisors, etc who have assisted you along the way?

Exercise:

How clear are these people about the difference they have made in your life?

Which of these people might you want to acknowledge today?

Of these people, who would put you on their list?