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My friends tell me I drive them nuts because no matter how well things go, I always ask this question.
i What could I do better next time?
Is this the reason I’ve succeeded at business? I see so many businessmen that aren’t able to see their own shortcomings. They plod along making the same mistake over and over. They seem to be more interested in finding a money making gimmick than improving their business practices. Self improvement takes discipline. Consequently I’m obsessive about viewing myself critically. There are many faults I can’t seem to change but I try to recognize the effect they have on my overall goals. Does anyone else out there have a similar tale? Is this good business or am I just under medicated?
Terry
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Terry,
That's good business sense.
It can get to be an obsession unless you keep it in check. Then it does more harm than good.
Ed.
*Terry- Of course we never improve if don't ask that question. 'Good enough' is not part of my vocabulary, either- I always strive to do my best, although there is no project I have done that I wouldn't do differently the next time. A lot of us tend to be our own worst critics, which is a good thing up to a point- but there's no need to beat yourself up. Give yourself a good pat on the back for all the things that did go right, then make a wish list of desired goals- in THAT order. And, a lot of times, all the things WE see wrong are invisible to others.........Accentuate the positive!.....:o) Ken
*Hi Terry,Why drive them nuts when flying is so much faster!Anyway, your question is valid and important especially when applied to our craft when many tasks are subject to repetition. Its the critical answers that will benefit you in the long run and people who are smart enough to recognize this will aspire totheir peak performance. Self examination is good but allowing others to freely exchange their observations is often more compelling. As you say, many of us are our own worst critics and that's normal, but when some else wades in and levies criticism it can be enlightening. Many more will be reserved in their judgement because they feel unqualified to proffer an opinion. Again,as with yourself, consider the source and evaluate the feedback.Yes, its good business. As for medication...I dunno,better living thru chemistry is what I've heard. Keep on keepin' on,Dan-O
*Terry, I really like your business postings. You obviously love your work, and your roofs are beautiful.People who are too self-contented drive me crazy. Of course, one can go too far in the other direction and be too self-critical...I guess knowing what to be critical about is the trick.I try to learn one new thing about business practice, one new thing about each trade I work with, and one new thing about people/client relations on each job. Of course I learn more than one thing, but I make an effort to make one thing stick.
*Terry,I agree completely. If you are not asking that question, then it is time to find a new enterprise 'cause you are bored and it will adversely affect your success.As for> There are many faults I can't seem to changeI have this problem too!Rich Beckman