We spend a lot of time sharing our opinions. Whether it’s about a Super Bowl ad, a new car or energy drink or the best new direction for our friend’s business – we share what we think with others.
We also all tend to listen to what others think about our lives, our careers and our businesses. Especially when that other is a respected leader – in our community, our industry or our lives.
What if those others are stuck in the status quo?
I learned that lesson recently in the publishing and marketing of my book. The publishing industry, as we all know, is so stuck in the past as to be a dinosaur sinking in the tarpits. I knew that going in. My BIG lesson was in learning that those who are the supposed ‘modern thinkers’ in the publishing business are also stuck in yesterday’s news. Even those new experts’ opinions were flat out misdirecting me.
I learned an important lesson. What experts say and think may be of value in your thinking – but when it comes right down to it – the only thing that matters is what you know to be true. For yourself.
Listen to the experts. Gather diverse perspectives. But then come back and ask yourself one simple question.
“What does my gut say?”
Listen carefully, then follow your gut. You know better than any expert about what’s right for you and your future.
Photo courtesy of Kristin Andrus
