Are You Really a Self Starter?

We've all been asked if we are or described ourselves as self starters. You know, the person who can find the wherewithall to start from scratch or with nothing to get a project or task going and then see it through to completion.

But are we really?

There are some real real-life tests of this. If you are someone who offices by themselves or out of a home office, you have part of this ethic going already. You have to start your day, not a boss coming by your desk or a bell going off (that really does happen).

If you don't have a family or significant other to motivate you, then you are a self starter. You have to start the day/task/project because you want to and not because someone else is driving you.

Same goes for job seekers--the balance in the bank account is ticking and will be gone if you aren't motivated.

Freelancers live by the notion that they are only as good as their last assignment. the client won't ask you back or pay you if you don't perform. YOU don't perform.

There are countless other ways to measure this, but you get the picture. You ahve to find "it" inside of you to push forward in this life. As a good friend of mine told me when I needed motivation at a low time:

"Now, go out and conquer something!"

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Being positive

At the most recent show I was producing for a client, I encountered George.

George gave me a lesson that I want to share here: be positive.

While most people complain about the long hours of a show, having to stand most of the day, or having to talk with people, George was quite the opposite. "Bring 'em on," was his mantra. While it is true that trade show duty can be grueling, George made the most of the opportunity. He was happy to meet people, enjoyed telling the story of his company and product and all but rejoiced in talking with the next group.

I know, I know, is this guy real? Well, yes he is....and so is his attitude.

It's a simple thing to put a smile on your face, to stand straight and greet people with an outstretched hand. You need to like what you do to do it right, but it really helps, not only your networking, but you'll feel better, too.

So, the next time you are in a networking situation (happy hour, trade show, cocktail party, dinner party, business meeting), think of all of the positives of the time. You will be meeting new people, learning new things and sharing your ideas with new ears.

Be like George more often

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