People to Admire #1
The humidity hung in the air so thick you could almost see it. Our fingers were coated in powdered sugar and we were surrounded by other tourists taking in the sites of New Orleans with a stop for beignets at Cafe Du Monde.
As we enjoyed this moment and space, a street performer pulled up in her small truck, set up her sound system and unleashed an impressive performance from the curb. Looking like a younger Macy Gray, she just went for it. Her medley of upbeat songs from the past 50 years spotlighted her vocal range. As she belted out her songs and interacted with the crowd, I noticed just how much my kids (18 and 20) clapped and cheered her on. After 20 minutes or so, she thanked everyone and starting packing it up. We tipped her generously as we left, and I wanted to tip even more because I was so impressed with how she just went for it.
When is the last time you poured all of your effort and passion into something? Over time and experience, we sometimes learn to temper our efforts, hold back and avoid criticism. We get tired. We get burned. Making yourself vulnerable with maximum effort is…well…scary. But are you not impressed when you see someone just going for it? When I see hustle, I want to reward it.
I’m sure that New Orleans street singer has a colorful back story. And I hope she keeps going for it and reaps all of the rewards for her efforts.
Worth Repeating
Things may come to those who wait…but only the things left by those who hustle.
-Abraham Lincoln
The 5am Club
You may be more of a late night hard worker and that’s good too. But, if you’re looking for the tools and motivation to start early and get ahead, click here to grab a copy of Robin Sharma’s The 5AM Club.
