2:30 a.m. and my eyes are wide open.

I can always tell when I’m stressed as I begin to see 2:30 a.m. roll across my bedside clock way too often. And I’m in another one of those phases.

This time my head’s running off with things that need to be done – new website, speaker’s kit, existing clients, new clients…on and on. I used to fight it, but know that if I do I’ll definitely see 3:30 then 4:30 and eventually 5:30 as I toss and turn.

So now I just get up, turn on the computer and let it flow because in the end, my stress is nothing more than creativity screaming to get out. Which begs the question, what the heck is going on during my normal workday that’s stifling my creative flow?

I think it has something to do with not taking the time to let my mind run free during the day…to always be thinking about the next thing, the next opportunity, the next challenge. Reality is that we can only accept so much input before we’re filled to overflowing and 2:30 a.m. is my warning sign.

So today it’s time I turn to my bike as there’s truth to the saying that it takes about half a tank to clear the mind. It’s sitting on full and going to be a beautiful day so think I’ll clear the deck and go for a ride. 

After all, that meeting will still be there tomorrow…it always is.

D

Dwain – The Biker Guy

As always – This is my opinion and I look forward to yours.  So, if you disagree or simply want to pile on, please do so either here on the BLOG or email me directly at Navigator@BikersGuidetoBusiness.Com  I look forward to hearing from you.

There are many lessons flying around the web concerning the Saints victory in Sunday’s Super Bowl. I’ve read about leadership, guts, playing to win, etc., but the lesson I’m taking from this game is how much the little things mattered.

Side note – I am a native of Louisiana and a life long Saints fan. I do remember where I was when John Gilliam ran back their very first kick off back for a touchdown against the Rams. And I suffered along side my fellow Cajuns all these years as our hopes were dashed again and again.

Aside from the relief, intense pride and realization that hell didn’t freeze over, what has resonated with me the past couple of days are two things – Payton’s explanation of the on-side kick and the interview with Tracy Porter discussing his game clinching interception.

In each, the key to their success was something they’d seen on film. On the kick, it was how their front line tended to get a jump by turning their backs before the ball was kicked. On the interception it was Porter knowing the footwork of the receiver.

Little things…little things that caught the attention of the winner – and fell through the cracks of the loser.

The late, great Peter Drucker once wrote that “Size does not equal significance” and also that “Significance precedes momentum”. Therefore, whether its business, sports or life – the margin of victory often comes from the attention to the little things.

Are you paying attention?

Dwain – The Biker Guy

As always – This is my opinion and I look forward to yours.  So, if you disagree or simply want to pile on, please do so either here on the BLOG or email me directly at Navigator@BikersGuidetoBusiness.Com  I look forward to hearing from you.

My last blog about the difference between a Partner and a Vendor obviously struck a nerve as I received tons of feedback and examples. Now I’m wondering how to find the ‘right’ Partner in those times when we can’t do it alone.

I’m at a point in the evolution of my business that a partner makes sense because the current heavy lifting is more than I can manage. And quite frankly, after ten years of flying solo I could use a dose of enthusiasm every now and then.

I’m somewhat open as to the definition of partner as it can range from a project partner to a full fledged revenue partner. But true part ownership in the business is not on the table and honestly would take years to earn.

The process I’m following is to network with other business men and women to seek their feedback and counsel. To a degree I’m clear on what I need and where I want to go, but the real problem is finding someone who’s on my wave length. Someone who is farther down my beaten path than me and can therefore give me advice that comes from experience rather than opinion.

I’m reaching out for any ideas you may have as my suspicion is that this issue is pretty universal.  Send them on and I’ll post them in a future blog.

Dwain – The Biker Guy

As always – This is my opinion and I look forward to yours.  So, if you disagree or simply want to pile on, please do so either here on the BLOG or email me directly at Navigator@BikersGuidetoBusiness.Com  I look forward to hearing from you.