In the ’60s the pop band, Herman’s Hermits had a hit with “She’s a must to avoid”, a title that always stuck with me.

I don’t always know exactly what to do but I damn sure know what not to do.

In other words, I know what’s a “Must to avoid” and I bet you do too.

The “Must to avoid” list differs for all of us.  For me, it may be wasting too much time and energy on deals that probably won’t happen or clients that aren’t a great fit.  Sometimes my must to avoid is just saying yes.

For someone else, it may be starting the day with a litany of what’s been wrong all week.  For yet another, it may be getting trapped for hours on Facebook, voyeuristically envying every fake life that’s contrived to look oh-so-fabulous.  Yet another’s “must to avoid” list may be constantly complaining or perhaps entertaining complainers. Whatever it is you know all about it.  You know the traps that drain your energy, eat your time, and suck your very soul from your body.  Yet, even the most disciplined among us have difficulty completely avoiding that which we know we ought to avoid.

Own Your Sales Gene…

I’ve taken to beginning each day by writing my intention for the day on one line and what I am grateful for on the next.  I find it focuses me away from my must to avoids.  Writing these two simple thoughts each morning is like leashing up a bomb-sniffing dog to walk in front of me all day and show me where not to stray.  It’s a simple strategy that helps keep me focused on what is important to me, crowding out my “must to avoids.”  Give it a try.  I’m confident this healthy day-starter will benefit you too.