Only feed the Good Dog

A sales trainer I met had one of the most unique motto's I've ever heard:

"Inside every person are two dogs: a good dog, and a bad dog.  Only feed the good dog." 

This was his ice-breaker to start off presentations on how to improve your performance as a sales rep.  I'm not sure it's the best analogy, and I have no idea if he's still opening with that one, but hey- I'll remember it forever so it's got to be worth something!

I was reminded of that saying when I took a look at Marcus Buckingham's book, Go Put Your Strengths to Work.  It's not so much about breaking out on your own as entrepreneur, but about focusing on your best qualities to improve the type & quality of work you do; whether it's as your own boss, or working for someone else. Even though it's not purely entrepreneurial, I love the message that it sends: everyone has different strengths, and the key to your success is finding and working with them instead of just avoiding mistakes.  A great message, regardless of your status as employee or employer.

I’ve always said, when you’re passionate about whatever it is you are doing, then you will almost always be successful. Check out Marcus’ book today and you’ll find yourself on the road to success!

Comments

[Stanley]

I understand the two dogs analogy. If you feed the bad dog you'll might get bitten one day, but if you keep feeding the good dog you will get the award.

In work, for example, if you work at a burger stand and you enjoy what you do; you will have a better chance at being promoted or staying with that job rather than when you dislike the job.

[kannan viswagandhi]

Hi Cameron,

Only feed the Good Dog,it is simply great one.
Whatever you focus your energy grows - Emerson.
If we focus our energy fully on our strengths and delicate our weeknesses to others who are strong in them,we will be masters of the game.I am sure that this is what the successful people do,one good example is Ford.
Thanks for sharing.
Best Wishes,
Kannan Viswagandhi