Are You Surrendering to the Process or Negotiating with It?
Questions
Where in your life or business are you negotiating with the plan instead of surrendering to it?
If you removed your emotions from the equation, what actions would you take immediately?
Are you operating based on what worked in the past, or are you adapting to what works now?
“Discipline will take you places motivation can’t.”
— Unknown
Who’s Winning in This Market (And Who’s Not)? The Hard Truth About Success
Be honest with yourself—how many times have you known exactly what needed to be done and still found a way to avoid it? I was in a conversation today talking with a client who expressed they didn’t ‘feel’ like doing the things that they know fundamentally work for them to be in a state of higher performance. In business, we begin the year with a business plan, kind of like a roadmap of what the priorities should be, and by the end of February often act like no plan exists so we panic and just run in any direction seeking some business salvation. In fitness, in life, we often know the plan, yet we fight it. We question if it’s fair. We wait until we "feel like it." We justify why today isn't the right day, why we're too experienced to still grind, or why the market conditions make it impossible. And we are smart people overall. I don’t think anyone is reading this blog is lacking the intelligence to win in whatever game they are playing. The secret to business success is to wake up every day and find customers who need your product or service then have them choose you as the provider. Simple right? In money management and wealth creation, the secret is to spend less than you make then invest the difference in an interest-bearing asset. Again, this is a simple concept yet since 78% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck clearly bad behavior rather than fundamental math skills are at the root of a bigger problem. In relationships, if you don’t want your relationship to end, simply do what you did in the beginning. Focus on making more deposits into the relationship with fewer withdraws is key to a successful long-lasting relationship.
So, what is the truth behind those winning and those losing? Those winning right now—the agents still closing deals, the entrepreneurs thriving, and the people staying strong in their health and fitness—those having financial success, improved relationships are the ones who surrender to the process, not their emotions. Do what winning requires and you too shall win. Recently, I have found myself asking the following question to those fighting with their own plan and goals; When will you surrender to the process that your goal demands? Those who are losing? They’re the ones negotiating with the plan or waiting until they feel like it. Truthfully, you will never feel like it any more than my kids ‘want’ to clean their room.
“The only way you get what you deserve is to work for it. Earning it makes you appreciate it more.” — Tim Grover
It’s easy to think that once you’ve put in your time, you’ve earned the right to skip the fundamentals. That you don’t have to make the calls, put in the reps, or show up when it’s hard. But neither the economy nor your body cares about what you think you’ve earned.
The most successful agents in today’s market aren’t sitting back reminiscing about how easy sales were a few years ago. They’re adjusting, sharpening their skills, and doubling down on what works. The same goes for those who are fit and healthy—they don’t skip workouts just because they’ve been consistent for a while. They know the plan still applies, regardless of how they feel.
“You are not entitled to the reward. You are entitled to the work.” — James Clear
Who is Winning Right Now?
Those who stick to the plan, even when it’s inconvenient.
Those who act instead of waiting for things to change.
Those who prioritize consistency over motivation—whether in business or fitness. Last year I found myself in coaching conversations and confronting reality saying, “Just Do Something!”
Those who adapt instead of complaining, recognizing that every market rewards those who play by its rules. My mentor Tony DiCello used to say I’ve never met a rich victim, and they are easy to spot. They will be hanging out with the other complainers and whiners, blaming and justifying why they are not succeeding.
And who’s losing?
Those who think they’ve paid their dues and now deserve a pass.
Those who resist what’s required instead of embracing it.
Those who wait for things to "go back to normal."
Those who believe they can outthink action.
The Choice Is Yours
The economy isn’t against you. Your body isn’t against you. Your business isn’t against you. Still, they all require respect, and that respect comes in the form of work. The question is, will you surrender to what’s required, or will you resist it? The key is that winning does not negotiate.
Because one thing is certain: the plan doesn’t care how you feel about it. Winners execute. The rest make excuses.
