- “How will I let you know if you win?”
I said, “Keep it and enjoy.” I could have said, “Here’s my card, call me if I do.” – and Fiona is a well-connected businesswoman.
- “Well, I’ll see you around.”
I replied, “Great – enjoy your holiday.” I could have said, “Let’s meet up in the New Year and finish off our conversation.” – and Fred is an A-list potential client.
- Chris, a newbie to the Club, walked past. I nodded.
I could have stood up and congratulated him on his recent success.
- John, the CEO of a major non-for profit; enigmatic, dapper, and slightly alone.
I could have strolled over and said hello and instead I just glanced over and said nothing.
David was beating himself up. We had agreed that networking is one of his paths to be better known, better connected.
I smiled, wry self-recognition, and gave him some solace.
The lessons are powerful, mistakes we can all make as we hunker down into our comfort zones.
But he was right. They were opportunities missed, and as long as he felt the heat, they would spur him on.
Success is to be celebrated – but our failures are more valuable.
They hurt. We chew over them, tear them apart, and then if we want, absorb the lessons and change.
And change is valuable and hard won.
Every successful business or sporting club has them. Success is built on the shoulders of failure.