MRE-Edition-1-Powerline-2017-REV6-FlippingBooks

By: Joel Worthington

A t our Power Conference this year we had an amazing time learning how to maximize our CUSTOMER system. Dale Mincks did a superb job of training. With his practical field experience of achieving amazing results, you would think that everyone would have embraced the training and many Service Professionals would have been inspired to “Do it like Dale.” While most did embrace the training, others were not so welcoming. Here’s the thing, outward expressions displayed as excuses or arguments as to why the practices are wrong, why they won’t work or even why they’re unethical are usually only masks to cover inward lack of self-confidence, fear of being able to learn something new, fear of trying but failing, fear of rejection or, occasionally, just plain old laziness. Lack of confidence and fear are opposite of faith. Some took Dale at his word, were inspired by his achievements and believe they can do the same thing. They embraced the training, and while they know it will be hard work to master the skills, they push forward with dedication toward the goal. There is a psychological phenomenon that can be displayed when someone gives her best effort and fails. After several attempts, many will no longer put forth any effort at all so they no longer experience the pain of failure. Instead of studying hard, they do not study at all. Now they have an excuse for their failure. They feel better about themselves and feel better in front of their peers. This experience isn’t found in children only – this can affect persons of all ages. The way it sounds in the Mr. Electric® experience goes something like this: “Our prices are too high.” “The customers are in a hurry and don’t want a safety check.”

“You people are just about making money and ripping customers off.” “Customers just want what they asked for and don’t want to be ‘sold’ anything else.” In most cases, these excuses are covering the fear of failure, of learning something new and lack of belief, not in the system, but in oneself to effectively work the system. The interesting thing is that it’s not just relegated to the Service Professionals – the same phenomenon shows itself with the business owners as well. These same fears and masks are displayed as excuses as to why the system doesn’t work or why training events have no value. It’s why, when things go south, some want to jump overboard. It’s nice to deflect responsibility – it makes us feel better about ourselves. Franchisors can fall into the same trap as well; they can begin blaming the lack of growth and success on “bad franchisees that don’t follow the system.” We all have the temptation to blame and make excuses. So, now that it’s all on the table, what do we do to correct the behavior? The first step is just being honest with oneself. Ask yourself this question, “Have I stopped trying, stopped believing and started making excuses because I’ve given my best and I just can’t figure out how to win?” If so, the next step is developing an unconquerable, no-quit mindset that believes that, no matter the obstacle, I can find a way to overcome. This is developed by making a habit of focusing on success and positive outcomes. Read inspirational stories of those who have overcome impossible odds to reach their goals. Read literature that promotes a positive mindset. Say positive affirmations throughout the day such as, “I can do anything I set my mind to do.” Finally, stop making excuses; just don’t do it! We all have

4 POWERLINE® | EDITION 1 2017

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