Field of Dreams is one of my favorite all-time feel-good movies. Being at IUSA this past week, I was thinking about the incredible spirit and excitement of the crowd. People were pumped to be there – all looking for ideas for the new year and answers to the big questions, “What do I need to grow my business? What do I need to build?”
Well, that took me to both sides of my title above.
There is no reason not to follow your heart.
Steve Jobs
Second, what if you build it and they don’t come?
When I left Rangefinder/WPPI in 2009 to go out on my own, Sheila said to me, “What are you afraid of?” My answer was instant, “Failing!” Her response was, “So what?” The more we talked, the more I realized that if things didn’t work out going in one direction, nothing was cast in concrete. I’d rethink things and take a different route.
Ironically, what I wanted was what I respected in so many of you – your passion as entrepreneurs. It was easy for most of my career to work for other companies, but when it’s your own business, it’s a true test of your focus and dedication.
It’s Friday, and perfect to leave you with one more thought:
“The brick walls are there for a reason. The brick walls are not there to keep us out; the brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. Because the brick walls are there to stop the people who don’t want it badly enough. They’re there to stop the other people.”
Randy Pausch
The bottom line – Build your dreams, and if they don’t come, take a closer look. Figure out what you missed and then stay focused on the next “turn in the road.” And if you hit a wall – build a door, knock it down, or climb over it!