Yes, it’s a classic. And, boy, is it ever worth reading again.
Another variation I like, courtesy of Steve Chandler, is to see yourself as the problem in a given situation, even when you know you’re not really the problem. “Because if I’m the problem,” Steve says, “I can also be the solution.”
It’s a great way to get those creative, problem-solving juices flowing.
In Business:
Never settle for having a copycat, me-too business. Always strive to have a business that so over-delivers on its promises that your customers feel compelled to tell others about it. Not just friends, but total strangers.
My wife and I were in a great seafood restaurant years ago, and she mentioned she would like to find a really good Chinese place, too. The couple in the booth behind us overheard, and immediately sprang into action.
They told us about a Thai restaurant in the next town over. We told them we’d have to give it a try in the polite, “let’s do lunch” kind of way, but that simply would not do. They made us promise we would try it. Yes, they were more than just satisfied customers; they were evangelists!
We did try it… and they were right! Best food ever! Now my wife and I are unpaid evangelists for this place, too. We’ll tell people within 100 miles about it when given the slightest opportunity. Man, I wish I was there right now.
No matter what your business offers, “be the change” that turns customers into evangelists and leave your competitors in the dust.
In Life:
Actions truly do speak louder than words. There simply is no other way to lead than by example. We should all strive to be, at a bare minimum, a positive influence on those we’re around.
So remember…
Be the change you wish to see in other people.
– Gandhi