| Joe Coulombe was successful. At least, he was by most standards. Several years ago, he launched a small chain of convenience stores in southern California that fit the 7-11 model. But then, he saw an opportunity. Always one for innovation and improvement, he wondered if he could create something that would better serve the growing population of recent college graduates who wanted convenience, but also craved something better than two-day-old hot dogs and Mountain Dew. So, he opened a market in Pasadena. He stocked it with wine and liquor, as well as high-quality prepared foods and fresh ingredients. He hired hard-working employees and put an emphasis on training. He paid them well, too. He worked long, hard hours. He regularly analyzed his business. He never gave up, even when business was slow. Eventually, the market grew, so he decided to add more locations—especially around universities and young professional hubs. He added more healthy, organic foods to the markets’ shelves, and diversified his offerings. Lo and behold, in a few short years, the concept took off. That market is Trader Joe’s. Coulombe’s success story—and outside-the-box thinking—is only one example of many enjoyed by entrepreneurial pioneers who upset existing industries to meeta need and solve a persistent problem. Why was he successful? Because he thought differently—about his business, about the world around him, and about himself. Because he was focused. Because he was determined. Because he was connected to his community and his customers. You see, all successful people think differently. They resist complacency and are driven by urgency. They say NO to almost everything and have a relentless focus on what matters. They make up for a lack of resources (money, support staff, etc.) by being resourceful with what they have. And they are always open to opportunity. This isn’t a genetically inherited quality. Successful people learn how to think differently. You can, too. Here’s where to start: 1. Think differently about time The beginner thinks: “I must be available to everyone all the time or I will miss out on deals.” The successful person thinks: “My time is my most valuable asset. I must protect it and put it to work for me. And I will persuade the world to see it my way for their benefit, too.” Successful people know time is more valuable than money, and that unlike money, time cannot be replaced when it passes. That’s why they are so protective of the clock and make every minute count. They control their mornings and own their days. They build systems to deal with the chaos. Make that shift in your mind. Would you let anyone come into your home and take money out of your wallet? No. Then why do you let the same people come into your life and take your time? Stand up for the minutes, hours, and days of your life. Time is always counting down, and you need to use it as wisely as possible. If you find that people are stealing your time, set up weekly “office hours” for open communication with clients, prospects, and employees. Communicate this time clearly, and frame it as a clear benefit to everyone who walks through your door. When unavailable, be sure you convey your regrets (via an automated response or voicemail) with a positive note: “I’m sorry I can’t respond/talk right now. I’m busy at work behind the scenes making our products and/or services and/or facility better for you so that you can enjoy an amazing experience. Thank you for understanding, and I really look forward to speaking with you during my office hours.” See how easy that is? You CAN take more control over your time when you think differently about it. Read on at earlytorise.com: The 6 ways successful people think differently... | 