Failing on all cylinders

Every so often, it feels like the universe is conspiring against us.

No matter how vigorously we toil away nothing seems goes our way. “Done deals” fall over at the eleventh hour. Hot prospects inexplicably vanish into vapour. People that owe us money go on holidays. It seems the only people willing to speak to us are trying to sell us something.

Although this current is raging, its force will eventually cease and move swiftly in the opposing direction. Similarly, all markets spiral down, correct, and shoot to the sky yet again. Record sales periods often morph into slumps for no ostensible reason. Our energy is up, flat, and then it’s down. Nothing stays the same for long. Every state is transient in nature.

When times are tough you’ve just got to ride them out. I know it’s never easy, but don’t let consistent challenges beat you. You can question things at times, sure, that’s logical, but don’t dwell on them too much. Change your approach and tweak strategies, absolutely, but don’t give-up, the tide will turn.

Often our potential is found just beyond our breaking point. Much like a circadian rhythm we habitually surrender at the identical stage each time, this position is our ‘pain threshold’ and it can be predicted. Interestingly, it’s this point that determines our growth and ultimate success; so know where it is and do your best to break through it.

“Embrace the struggle” is a precise quote though its exact origin is vague. Knock on doors, amuse time-wasters and overcome rejection day in and day out, if you must. Akin to an outcast left to fester in their indignity until someone buys from them. Who would enjoy that? No one of sound mind, so don’t enjoy it, just get on with it. You will break though eventually. If you don’t believe in ‘you’ how can you expect others to?

Failure builds character and resilience. It sorts the lions from the pack, because when you’re failing so are most of your competitors. Failure reveals insights to advance your skills. Failure is beautiful, if only you would look inside.

When you overcome failure it not only boosts your confidence, it’s exhilarating!

For more Selling Strategies advice, click here.

Trent Leyshan is the founder and CEO of BOOM Sales! a leading sales training and sales development specialist. He is also the creator of The NAKED Salesman, BOOMOLOGY! RetroService, and the Empathy Selling Process.