Growing up, I was 5 years old when my grandpa first took me fishing. My grandpa bought me my first Snoopy fishing pole! We fished often together. Some of my fondest memories of him are the times spent on the boat or dock, fishing on the Mississippi River!
I have learned that fishing is a lot like life for me, especially professionally! There are many factors that can help you succeed. You need the right equipment, some skill/practice/technique and it helps to have a guide/expert who knows the area you are fishing, or the type of fish you are desiring to catch. Patience (this is key). The right bait is a good start. Then there is nature, something you cannot control like the weather and water conditions. If all of these factors come together, you have a greater likelihood of success, but no guarantees! Such is life!
With the best of intentions, we often cast out many messages, offers and conversations to the world. If we are not in the right place, we may not land a bite let alone "hook" anyone. I believe that when two things align there is a greater likelihood of success. Those two things are shared values and timing.
I could meet someone but come to find that they are not the right person or business for me to work with. I am happy to refer them to another qualified professional that may, at the time, be better aligned to help this person with their needs and goals. On the other hand, I could meet someone whose values align with mine, or is a good fit with my approach, but then come to find the timing of our meeting is not right. That is ok as well. The best outcome is when my values align with yours and you are ready, or otherwise in a good position, to receive and accept my advice.
So, what do I do? I keep sharpening my skills, maintain outside conditions to ensure they are still favorable and then...keep casting! That's the key, you never fail if you never give up!
When Jesus calls Simon to be a fisher of men, instead of just fish, I think it is a call for all of us to consider that same offer! So today and every day, keep putting your line out and be ready to reel in whatever may bite on the other end. Use experts around you and be ready for whatever is on the other end of the line.
Merry Christmas to all my Fishermen and women out there!
