I think that almost everyone would agree with me that 2016
was a crazy year on many counts. We were bombarded with bizarre events in
sports, industry, human relations, and entertainment. This past year will be
remembered for some time to come. In the wake of all of this tumult, the
construction industry has trudged along under the radar. Both commercial and
residential construction have grown to levels not seen for eight years. Construction-related
employment has correspondingly advanced at almost twice the rate of
conventional job growth. One thing I don’t like about the consistent and
plodding growth we have experienced is that it tends to numb your motivation.
So in an effort to keep myself alert, I looked at some key events from the past
year that might provide inspirational lessons on how to make the most of 2017.
Your Strengths Can Cover UP Weakness
I am not a fan of mixed martial arts (MMA), but I am a
student of success, and have found Ronda Rousey’s story to be an interesting
example for any business. Rousey went from working three jobs to support
herself to putting a women’s sport on the map. She was dominant in the ring,
eliminating many opponents in less than 30 seconds. Unfortunately, her
dominance became her Achilles heel because it was based upon doing only one
thing very well. As her opponents became stronger in other methods of fighting,
Rousey ignored this trend and continued to do what she did best. This strategy
eventually led to a first loss in 2015 and an embarrassing defeat last Friday.
Most successful businesses achieve greatness by doing a few
things very well. Amazon has done it in logistics, Apple in technical design,
and Costco in retailing to serve as a few examples. Rousey shows us that it is
time to look at whether our strengths are clouding our judgement. Are your
competitors making strategic changes that threaten your business? Are companies
from other industries entering your marketplace for the first time? Are there
subtle shifts in your marketplace that are not visible because you are too busy
with your nose to your grindstone? The time is right for a little strategic
introspection before someone punches you in the face.
Never Give Up
The Chicago Cubs are the best example this past year of an
outfit that struggled for the past century to meet their goals and finally came
through with a World Series victory 108 years later. This unprecedented Series
drought is the longest recorded by any major American sports team. Although the
Cubs made it to the Series seven times during this period of famine, they
always came up short. People were beginning to believe that a curse levied by
the owner of the Billy Goat Tavern in 1945 was real. In 2016 the Cubs were able
to shake the curse and ascend to the top of Major League Baseball.
Every business has its challenges whether they are minor or
critical to survival. I think most people spend their efforts pursuing their
dreams rather than basking in the glory of their achievements. And as is
typical, our dreams are confronted, derailed, or undermined on a regular basis.
At times one can wonder if attainment of a desired goal is even possible. At
these times of despair, it is good to remember stories like the Cubs scripted
in 2016. Anything is possible if you never give up.
It’s Never Too Late
I remember reading about the problems facing the Rio
Olympics during the nine months preceding the games. When you combine delays in
construction, construction defects, safety concerns, water & air pollution,
failed infrastructure, and the Zika virus, it is amazing that the games weren’t
cancelled. Given insurmountable odds of having their country ready to host, Rio
came through in the end with a lot of hard work and some good ole fashioned luck.
Businesses often find themselves in overwhelming
circumstances where the task at hand is daunting. Whether you have challenges
in fueling unprecedented growth, developing a new product line or service,
opening a new office, or struggling to stay afloat, achieving one’s goals can
often appear impossible. If you ever find yourself wondering how you will make
it to the finish line, remember Rio. The Olympics show us that anything is
possible no matter how frightening the challenge.
I’m sure there are many other lessons to be learned from
2016, but these are a few that stood out to me. Since success in business can
be fleeting, it helps to reflect upon lessons learned from external events so
our strategies have a chance to continue to serve us well. May 2017 be your
best year ever!
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