Opportunities Are Seldom Convenient

Looking back at my career, I’ve found that the best ones often arrive at the most difficult times. The real question isn’t whether the timing is right, but whether we are ready and willing to adjust when they appear.

A Lesson from TEDx:

When a TEDx producer invited me to be a “celebrity speaker,” I was thrilled—until I saw the date. It fell on the same Saturday as one of my business boot camps.

Initially, I told the organizer I couldn’t make it and asked to speak at the next event instead. He agreed, but noted it wouldn’t be for another year. Realizing how much can change in twelve months, I decided to find a way to make it work. I made the necessary adjustments to my schedule so I could do both without compromising the quality of my boot camp. It turned out to be one of the best decisions of my life.

Beyond “Right vs. Wrong”:

As our visibility grows, so do the invitations. The challenge lies in deciding which to accept and which to decline.

Early in my career, I was taught to label opportunities as good or bad and right or wrong. This never quite worked for me; I found myself second-guessing every choice, which crippled my productivity. Eventually, I replaced those labels with a single, powerful question:

“Does this opportunity move me toward or away from my ultimate vision?”

The Ultimate Filter:

This question simplifies everything by asking one thing: Does it fit? Of course, using this filter requires you to be crystal clear on your ultimate vision and desired outcomes.

The next time an opportunity lands on your desk—no matter how inconvenient or intimidating it might feel—ask yourself that question. If the answer is “yes,” embrace it.