I started running when I was 13 years old and I’ve been running ever since. Not continuously, mind you. But every day or two I head out for a run. The key to longevity as an athlete is staying healthy. Interestingly, the standard advice for preventing injuries is, “Buy shoes with lots of cushioning and stability.” Here’s my advice: Use good form. Pretend the shoe doesn’t exist. Run light and aligned. Run better. Run in moccasins or barefoot when you can. Cushy shoes actually harm you because they allow you to run poorly and not feel it. In the long run, your poor technique will lead to an injury.
The shoe is a tool. There are bad and good tools, but ultimately the skill of the person using the tool is what creates a functional, productive result. Makes sense in construction, too, right? Consider a hammer. As a technician, you know that even the best tool is useless in unskilled hands. Once upon a time, you picked up a hammer for the first time. I bet someone watched you whack it a few times and then, shaking his head, came to your rescue. “You’ll wear yourself out holding it like that. Here. Hold it like this. Swing from your elbow. Let the momentum of the swing do the work.”
In your business, financial systems, operations manuals, procedures…they are tools. Credit cards, loans, collection services…they are tools. They allow you to get more done in less time. However, the magic lies with the people who use the tools. The tool itself, ill-used, can create a lot of damage. This article talks about the move from paper money. That’s not all bad. However, the disconnection between having the money and then spending the money increasing. A debit card is a credit card once you overdraw. Take a look…
Here’s a tool to add to your financial tool box: The Financial Quick Check and an explanation for how to use it. This is a terrific tool for having a powerful financial meeting. “Can we be profitable this month? What’s happening with cash? Is our debt growing or reducing? Where are we compared to budget? What can we do NOW to improve the score?” You may also need a coach to help you learn how to create one for your company, and to get the most out of the tool. I can also help you and your team learn how to run really well with it.
