Are you a Linchpin?

Okay – I’m going to assume that anyone who clicks through to this is familiar with Seth Godin’s book titled Linchpin.  On June 14^th there will be meetups all over the world for those who consider themselves Linchpins.

In this new world of building one’s own brand we all understand the power of networking.  The events taking place on June 14^th are a great example of connecting with like-minded people whose skills likely compliment your own.

There are now 772 Linchpin meetup locations registered.  We’ll be hosting one of those here at The Sanctuary in Franklin, TN.  If you are in this area and consider yourself a Linchpin, feel free to join us.  Wherever you happen to live, check out the Linchpin meetup near you.  All Linchpin Meetups worldwide

Don’t miss out on a free opportunity to grow your network – and your business.

There is no map

There is a chapter in Seth Godin’s new book Linchpin titled There is no map.  The concept is that successful people can’t be told exactly what to do.  They have to release the artist within to find their own unique success.

Think about that.  Do you need a map for everything you do?   In discussing this in my Wednesday morning Eagles Group the brilliant guys in there quickly decided we don’t need a map, but we do need a compass.  If you’re in the middle of the woods a map will take you right back to the well-worn path and you’ll see just what everyone else has seen.  However, a compass will get you to the desired endpoint but along the way you may see the baby fawns, magnificent waterfall, and other hidden treasures that have never been put on the map. 

 

If you need a map, your work may be predictable and boring.   If you need a map, your religion may be full of rules but missing authentic experience.  If you need a map, you may give your spouse a gift on your anniversary but be missing a fulfilling relationship. 

There is no map for your extraordinary success. Develop your compass – and see your life become rich and meaningful.

Free Ideas — and Free Money?

Okay – many of you that I talk to say you are still looking for your great idea.  Some of you have your idea but feel you need a chunk of money to get it off the ground.  Well, here’s a solution for both.  Billionaire Mark Cuban is offering to fund any business that can show a break-even cash flow in 60 days and be profitable in 90.  So – no problem getting any amount of money you need (no minimum – no maximum) – if in fact you have a solid business plan.  The Mark Cuban Stimulus Plan.  And if you still need an idea – no problem.  Seth Godin’s current group of 9 six-month MBA candidates just came up with a list of 999 Business Ideas – free for the taking.  I believe every single one except #789 has merit.  I’m going to study the entire list and find 3-4 to develop myself. 

No more excuses – plenty of ideas and plenty of money.  All you need to do is take action.  If you don’t have a money making business 90 days from now – look in the mirror to identify the roadblocks.

Seth Godin on why you should be the best

Most of you know my admiration for the business wisdom of Seth Godin.  His latest book, Tribes, talks about the power of small groups who believe in a common cause and have a way to communicate.  Much of what we do at 48Days.net is built around that concept.  We want you to be passionate about your area of interest and then connect with a few other people with that same passion.

This week Seth is at the TED conference in California.  TED (Technology, Entertainment, Design) is an invitation-only event where the world’s leading thinkers and doers gather to find inspiration.

Here’s a video interview Seth did two days ago at TED.  He explains why we all need a tribe, and why if you’re going to do something, you need to be the very best.  Whatever you do, don’t be mediocre by trying to appeal to everyone in the world. 

He also gives a very interesting explanation for why he is not on Twitter.  It’s a twelve minute video – and worth every minute if you’re serious about making your impact on the world.

Maybe You’re Wrong!

 

Recently I attended an all-day workshop with Seth Godin in New York City.  Seth is the author of several books that include Permission Marketing, Purple Cow, Prize Inside and The Dip.  He is known for his contrarian wisdom – seeing things in new and innovative ways.  Thus the title Purple Cow.  Seth says brown, white or black cows don’t grab our attention – but a purple one would.  His challenge – what are you doing in your work or business that is remarkable – that would get attention?
Here are some thoughts shared during his unusual workshop:

 

• People who go to the edge grow – average is just average
• If you’re not offending people, you’re not telling a story that will be retold
• Don’t lead with how you are better – lead with how you can help
• Most people excel because they had the guts to risk failing
• If you try too hard to make money as you help people, you will fail at both

 

In his latest book, The Dip, Seth destroys the commonly accepted statement, “Winners never quit; quitters never win.”  He says that’s rubbish; winners know when to quit and start in a new direction.
I seek out books, seminars and workshops that challenge my thinking.  Maybe I’ve been wrong on an issue or belief.  What about the commonly accepted business practice that “the customer is always right?”  Have you ever questioned that piece of wisdom? 

 

Do you welcome having someone challenge your beliefs and practices?  Or do you defend your current knowledge and understanding of most issues?  What have you done this year to force yourself to grow philosophically, psychologically and spiritually?