Good morning everyone,
With Thanksgiving tomorrow, we’re pausing our usual “What Would You Do Wednesday” to reflect on something that’s been on my mind: thankfulness.
First, I want to say how incredibly thankful I am for you. I’m thankful that you allow me into your inbox, that you read these posts, and that you give me your feedback. I truly am.
This holiday always makes me reflective, and I find that the most successful and fulfilled people I know share a deep sense of thankfulness. It’s not just a tactic; it’s a perspective.
As I thought about my own career, here are three things I am profoundly thankful for:
1. I Am Thankful for the Hard Lessons
This might seem odd. Who is thankful for failure?
I’m not thankful for the feeling of failing, but I am incredibly thankful for what the disappointments, the flops, and the “no’s” have taught me.
Once you get past the initial sting, the lessons are what stick. Great salespeople are agile learners, and the most powerful lessons often come from the bad, the disappointing, or the ugly moments. I’m thankful for those “shit sandwiches” because they gave me the tools and skills to grow and succeed later.
2. I Am Thankful for My Clients
I am deeply thankful for every client. Why? Because I know they have other choices.
There is always someone else trying to earn their attention and their business. I’m not entitled to their business, and I’m not just an order-taker. I have to keep earning their trust and showing my value.
In today’s competitive world, no one can afford to take their customers for granted. I’m thankful every time they choose me, and that thankfulness drives me to work hard to earn their loyalty.
3. I Am Thankful for This Career
Finally, I’m so thankful for the opportunity to have a career in sales.
When I look at my life, so many of my most enduring relationships came from this path. I’ve built friendships with people I first met on a cold call, colleagues I’ve sold alongside, and mentors who guided me. (you know who you are)
My life is filled with an abundance of wonderful people—partners, friends, and colleagues—all because of this career. It’s an embarrassment of riches, and for that, I am so very thankful.
If you’re reading this, my note of thankfulness includes YOU. Thank you for letting me into your inbox, your feeds, your businesses, and your brains. I do not take that privilege for granted.
As you head into the holiday, I’d love to know:
In your sales or business practice, what are you truly thankful for this year?
Until next time, stop hoping and start SELLING!
Happy Selling,
David
