There's an old Chinese proverb that says, ‘The best time to plant a tree was 10 years ago and the second best time is now.’
So what's stopping us from doing the things that we know we should do to get the long-term benefit in our lives and businesses? Continuing with the tree metaphor:
How do I know which tree to plant?
What if I choose the wrong tree?
I don't know how to look after it. What if it dies?
I don't have the proper tools.
What will people think?
Other people are better at planting trees.
I don't have time, I'm busy.
It's hard work.
I'm not quite ready.
It's not my job.
Planting trees is a long-term project. No doubt there is an initial satisfaction in the act of planting the tree and once it is done we can stand back and admire our handiwork. However, there needs to be a commitment towards the tree because it needs looking after if it is to grow to its full potential.
Whatever the ‘tree’ is, we have to recognise that it is important work if we are really going to commit to it.