We all have bad days. Some have bad weeks. All of this will pass; eventually.
Living the dream, another day in paradise, we've all heard the negative cliché.
Bill Voller passed on Easter Sunday. Bill was a past President, a mentor and a friend. He gave me one of my first breaks in this industry and here I am today. Bill cared about the industry, his store and his association. The last conversation I had with Bill was about his desire to assist some of our troubled stores in the spring; this spring! I am sad that will not happen!
Find something to care about!
Care about your staff, train them, mentor them; be a role model. Lead by example! Give them a reason to come to work each day. Let them know that they matter, that they make a difference. Let them know that they are invaluable to the operation of your business!
Care about your store! What is its curb appeal? What is the first impression entering the building? Ask for objective opinions. What image does your store project? Is it a positive reflection on the community?
Care about your community! Remember that each dollar you generate creates new opportunities for your residents. You may be the only revenue generator in your community. Accept that responsibility and do whatever you can to enhance the profit picture of your business.
Care about yourself! Recognize that a rudderless ship will only go in circles or crash on the rocks. Make it your responsibility to improve the business you manage each day you enter. It's a simple rule to remember and it makes it easy to figure out what to do each day. Appreciate the opportunity you have been given and the inherent responsibility that goes along with it. This is not a year to take gainful employment for granted. Learn something today in an unconventional manner. Carpe Diem; seize the day.
My Father used to say that nobody ever injured their eyes looking at the bright side of life. Care about what you do. Recognize the important role you fill in your community. Don't take anything for granted and appreciate each day you have been given. Sometime we need someone's passing to remind us what a gift we are given each day.
Do the best you can as often as you can. Make your business something your community can be proud of. If your desire to do this no longer exists please step aside and give someone else the opportunity. It will be the best thing you can do for yourself and your community.
