Tag: speaking

Not how it works

FabrizioLeave a comment

Do something because you want to try.

Because you want to start a new habit, because it is a thing you might like, because you know that somebody will feel better. Do something because you are running out of time or because you have too much time on your hands. Do it because it makes sense, because it is the right thing to do, because you know you can handle it. Or perhaps to test yourself, to stretch your skills and build new muscles. Do something when you have nothing to do, when you have too much to do, when you feel down, and when you feel energetic.

But never do because you expect someone to do something in return.

That’s just not how it works.

Simple

FabrizioLeave a comment

There are two problems with writing in a way that is complex and self-serving.

The first problem is that people will not understand.

The second problem is that people will not raise their hands to tell you they did not understand. You’ll go home thinking everything is clear. And you’ll be left wondering why you are not achieving what you were expecting to achieve.

Keep things simple.

Simple is also what you like to read, after all.

On board

FabrizioLeave a comment

When you create something, some will not like it.

When you share an idea, some will find it impractical.

When you launch a project, some will say it will never work.

When you have a solution, some will argue it’s not the right one.

When you find a problem, some will say they can live with it.

Of course, the point has never been to have everybody agree. The point is doing something that feels right, and doing it consistently and continuously enough, so that others can find it and come on board.

The lives of others

FabrizioLeave a comment

We are experts on how to live the lives of others.

We know exactly what others should do, say, wear. We know how they feel and what motivates them. We tackle their problems better than if they were our own. We plan, argue, debate for them. We know everything, we hear everything, we understand everything.

And when it is our turn, we are stuck.

We are wonderful spectators and mediocre actors.

Because being under the spotlight is never easy. It is not for us – and indeed, we come up with many excuses when that happens -, it is not for those around us.

Start here to develop empathy.

Start here to get going.

Criticism

FabrizioLeave a comment

What you do is always going to be met with criticism.

Not everybody is going to like it, not everybody is going to agree with it, not everybody is going to want to hear, read, listen more.

The way you approach this basic fact is going to determine how much you are going to achieve. Make it a focus, try to change minds, invest in proving them wrong, and you will be depleted in no time. Take it as an assumption, filter what can help you, muscle through the rest, and you’ll have a real shot at unleashing your potential.

You are not here to please everybody.