I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to attend TEDxDetroit 2012 at the end of October. What I love about TEDxDetroit is that it’s so different from any other event or conference I’ve ever attended. I always leave feeling inspired and refreshed with new ideas and inspiration for how to improve upon my professional and personal life.
This year proved no different. There were several entrepreneurs who shared their personal stories and advice on how to turn ideas into action and success. Here are my favorite quotes from the event:
“Call the world’s bluff.” – Andy Didorosi, president and founder of The Detroit Bus Company.
How many times has someone told you your idea is too “out there,” or something along those lines? When you hit roadblocks or opposition, do you stop, or do you power through? Andy’s advice is simple – When someone tells you it’s not possible, find a way to prove them wrong.
I believe it’s OK to pursue new ideas if you’ve done the research, made an attempt, yet realized it’s just not going to work out (more on the whole “when it’s OK to stop” topic coming in a future post). But if you don’t at least attempt to call the world’s bluff, you’re not only doing a disservice to yourself, but also to those who you could potentially affect and help in a positive way should you prove the naysayers wrong.
“Something is better than nothing.” – Tom Nardone, leader of the Mower Gang
I’ve been guilty of focusing too much on the big wins and not taking enough time to appreciate the small wins. Tom gave a good and important reminder that something is better than nothing. So you may not solve the entire problem, but if you’re chipping away by making baby steps toward an ultimate goal, then you’re still making a difference.
“Embrace change, keep the faith and make magic.” – Marlo Rencher, CEO of Good Sweat
Three separate thoughts, but harnessing each of these will help move the needle toward success. You can’t improve and succeed unless you use change to your advantage. If you don’t have faith and confidence in whatever it is you ultimately want to achieve, you’ll never make it. Finally, focus on your craft. Do what you do best. Make the magic that only you know how to make. If you’re producing the best possible work you can, you will see results.
“Thinking isn’t enough. Put action behind thoughts.” – David McGhee, program director for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Flint 100 Men 100 Boys Program
We all know this, yet we continue to do it. We come up with ideas, then we sit on them. Maybe we start putting together the building blocks, but something always distracts or dissuades us. Your thoughts alone aren’t going to produce greatness. Don’t know where to start? Start somewhere. Anywhere. Just start. Seek out others who can help you move things forward if you get discouraged or don’t know what to do next. Action makes things happen. Thoughts are just the conduit to success.
Huge thanks and congrats to all the TEDxDetroit producers for another job well done!
Does any of this advice resonate with you and encourage you to move forward on something you’ve been holding back on? What other advice has helped spark success for you?