When it comes to making things happen we generally have two choices in life: 1) wait on things to happen or 2) make things happen.
I don’t have any statistical data around the two choices, but I’m sure people do a little of both, with a majority of folks falling in the “wait on things to happen” category.
I’d like to show you a simple, but fantastic example of someone making things happen. First, let me set the story up by showing you a quick photo.
The quality of the shot isn’t great, but this is of a hill on the outskirts of Manhattan that I’ve named “Mini Alpe d’Huez” (hill in the Tour de France). Why? It’s the steepest hill I’ve encountered while cycling in the area. Right when you think you get to the top of the hill there’s a sharp left-hand turn that smacks you in the face with a steeper incline. I know it doesn’t look that impressive in the photo, but trust me… it’s steep.
When it finally levels out, most people, especially the novice cyclist or those out for a joy ride, are either out of breath or walking. Your legs are screaming. Your chest is pounding. And most of all, on a hot summer day, you are thirsty.
And that’s where Miguel comes in.
He’s sitting right at the top of the hill with his cooler with a sign that says, “Water $2.” I sat and watched for around 5 minutes and nearly every person that came up the hill stopped and bought a water. If he had a way to take credit cards the percentage would likely be even higher.
Miguel, without a doubt, fits in the “make things happen” category. He knows the hill hurts, he knows people will be thirsty, and he knows exactly how to fulfill their immediate need.
The situation is actually quite comical to watch play out. Just when you crest the hill the first thing you see is Miguel looking at you with a touch of a smile. He’s got you, and you know you need/want what he has.
Making things happen in life isn’t always easy, but when you know you want something, set a path for success and take action (one step at a time) to achieve your goal.
