About five months ago I received some invaluable advice that is certain to last a lifetime. You see, right about that time I was questioning my ability to succeed in my newfound motivational speaking business. I’d just quit two jobs – one of which I could’ve lived in comfortably for the remainder of my life – to pursue what it was I truly desired. Close friends and even family thought I was “crazy” in trying to begin my business. Everywhere I turned there was seemingly someone there to remind me that becoming a motivational speaker at my age, with my background, simply was not realistic.
For the first few months, “their” thoughts did not hinder me. I worked tirelessly each and every day to try and build my brand, to make connections, and to hone my skills. I was doing everything I could to ensure I would be able to make it work.
However, then came the time that it was not working. I didn’t know where I’d find the funds to pay my bills for the coming months. My business was failing, and they (who told me it couldn’t work) were seemingly right. It was at this point that I picked up the phone in desperate need of some guidance. The man on the other end of the line was a man of integrity; a kind-hearted, genuine, thoughtful, and incredibly selfless man. This man, Mr. Ron Klein, is best known for his invention of the credit card magnetic strip, but has done much more than that. He is considered the “Grandfather of Possibility” because of his unique skills to be able to look at a problem and identify the opportunity within it.
On this day, Ron Klein, provided me with wisdom that helped to change the course of my business and my life. As I was rambling off to him my concern and uncertainty of how I would survive financially in the coming weeks and months, he said, “Adam, sometimes in life you have to service your debt in order to service your passion. What I mean by that is this: what you’re passionate about is wanting to help others change the course of their life and speak in front of audiences. So no matter what, you have to find ways to do that. You must continue to seek out ways to gain speaking opportunities. However, in the meantime you must also service your debt. I don’t care if you have to get one, two, or even three part-time jobs to pay your bills, you’ll do what you need to do so ultimately you’ll be able to do what you love.”
Despite the great counsel I’d just received, it didn’t quite sink in yet, and I replied in saying, “but what if everyone has been right, Ron? What if I was crazy to think at 23 I could be a motivational speaker?”
“Nonsense.” He replied.
“Adam, I was going to tell you that’s your biggest asset. You’re 23!!! Even if you fail miserably at business in the coming year(s), you’ve not truly failed. You don’t have a family to support or much responsibility. This is the best time to experiment and learn from your mistakes.”
As I think back to that conversation, I know I have Ron to thank for continuing with my business to this day. I’d been so close to giving it up and calling quits. But with his most valued wisdom and expertise shared, I was able to continue forward. And that’s why I share this with you today. So you, too, may be encouraged to continue forward.
No matter how far away your dream may appear, no matter how challenging your current circumstances may seem, and no matter how little money you have to continue forward, “do what you need to do, so ultimately you’ll be able to do what you love.”
I believe in YOU!!!!
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