Who do you think this description refers to? 

“...possessing neither by experience or talent any managerial ability at all.” 

That was how Sir Alex Ferguson was described when he was sacked as the Manager of St Mirren FC 30 years ago. Yes, that’s the same Alex Ferguson who is described by many as the greatest football manager of all time.

My old English teacher (Miss Lumsden) wrote in my final school report, ‘Michael will never do anything with the English language’. Now as a professional speaker and international best-selling author I’m happy I chose to ignore that expert opinion.

What bad advice have you been given and more importantly what have you chosen to believe from that awful advice?

At times our friends, family, colleagues, teachers and bosses have given us some ‘friendly’ advice. And often we instinctively react and often take it on board (and to heart) without really processing what’s been said.

Here’s what to do when you’re given some of that so called ‘friendly advice’

1) Ok so they may be spot on with their assumption.  Now ask, ‘What can I learn from this’

2) Ask yourself if their advice will take you closer to your goal or move you further away.  If it’s going to take you closer then take action on it. If it’s not then see No. 3.

3) And if their advice just makes you feel bad and takes you down, then treat it like a dodgy gift. Be grateful for the present, but you don’t have to use it (in fact you may even be able to swap it for vouchers or cash!)

Often people offer their advice or criticism to make themselves feel good rather than genuinely caring for you.  It’s not that they are evil dream-stealers, it’s just they don’t really understand the impact their opinion has on you.

Finally, if you’ve read this far I’m assuming you’re on board with the message. So here’s an action for you.  Make it a priority over the next week to find words of encouragement. Focus on what’s right about a colleague, friend or family member and then tell them.

Now that’s advice worth listening to!  

Be Brilliant!

Michael

Hi Michael,

I’m setting my goals but don’t seem to get excited enough to take action. I find myself procrastinating and before I know where I am, I’ve fallen backwards and I’m back to goalsetting without the results. I’m frustrated!

Best wishes

Mandy

Hi Mandy

Setting goals is the easy part but taking action is the key to getting results. Create an opportunity to do something (anything!) to get you started. By creating an early momentum it’s amazing how you’ll soon have regular goal achieving activity as part of your day.

One more thing. If you goals don’t feel exciting enough then add 10%.  If you want to lose 20lbs make it 22! If you want to save £10,000 make it £11,000.  If you want a new car in the next ten months (flip this one) and make it 9. The 10% rule will create your extra oomph!

Be Brilliant!

Michael 

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