Mind the Gap

So there I was, in the midst of one of the greatest motivational sales persons ever, Jefferey Gitomer (http://www.gitomer.com/), hoping to glean a little something to help myself and our business. And I did. As he spouted about attitude and kicking your own ass, secrets of closing, drop in calls and the like, I picked up more than enough golden nuggets to keep me energized for the next year.

And then it happened. I had my Aha! moment. In describing the London subway, he noted that on every car and at every stop there is a sign prominently displayed that reads "Mind the gap". Of course it meant to pay attention to the gap between the platform and the car as you step on and off, so you don't fall in. (That would suck) But what does it really mean? Recounting his endless analogies and humorous lessons, I realized everything he had been talking about was the gap. And the subway car and the platform.

The subway car is WHERE WE ARE and the platform is WHERE WE WANT TO GO and visa versa, depending on where you're standing. The GAP is what stands between where we are and where we want to go. This is true of anything. If you want to become a doctor and you're still in high school, well, there is a gap of about 10 years of academia and residency that you must overcome. If you're in love, but don't tell him/ her, then you have a communication gap. If you're freezing your ass off in the snow and want to be on the beach, your gap is called American Airlines!

In other words, know where you are and where you want to go and then find out what's needed to close the gap. No matter how big or small, always pay attention to what stands between you and your goals, lest you fall in...and that would suck!