I’ll Cross that Bridge When I come to it.
Whenever I ask people how they are going to deal with a particular problem if it were ever to occur in the future, the response you often hear is, “I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it.” In other words, I’ll deal with that problem if it occurs, but I don’t want to be bothered with it now. One of the things I’ve learned about highly successful people is they almost never use this phrase. Rather, they’re continually thinking about problems that might occur in the future and they develop contingency plans to deal with them. As a result, if the problem does occur, they’re ready and the problem is resolved with without much of an incident. On the other hand, these same problems can become major problems if they’re not anticipated and contingency plans are not developed. The lesson here is that anticipating the future and planning ahead can make the journey through life a lot smoother.
Ross, as my nephew always says about the maple syrup “you gotta have a backup”. As entrepreneurs, we constantly have to think about plan B, but can’t get stuck on it, becuase you can really get bogged down. I’ve heard two comments in my career that have stuck with me on this topic – 1st, don’t spend too much time worrying about most things, since 95% of what we worry about doesn’t happen. I’ve found that to really be the case. 2nd, and this is one of my favorites – a twist on the old saying you quoted – I’ll burn that bridge when I come to it. Sort of a Norm Crosby version with a scorched earth planning policy 🙂
Cheers! gm
Dear Gary,
Thanks for the great comment regarding this week’s Reminder. I like the, “I’ll burn that bridge when I come to it.” I hope all is well, Ross
The Boy Scout motto is “Be Prepared”. As an Adult Scout leader, we emphasize to the boys that the motto does not just apply to a trip into the wilderness. It applies to ALL aspects of life – home, school, work, etc.
Dear Bryant,
Thank you so much for your comments regarding my Weekly Reminder. They’re right on. Also thank you for putting your whole family on the mailing list. Hearingthat made my day. All the best to you, Ross
By the way, keep those Weekly Reminders coming. They are greatly appreciated. My wife, daughter and son are also on your list. Thanks.