This week I was strongly reminded of something I am passionate about - learning, experiencing, growing, embracing opportunities, and having an open-mind. I know that is several "somethings", but to me it is all related.
I was given the unique opportunity to attend a motivational business seminar with many high profile speakers for free and an excused absence from work. My first reaction was heck yes sign me up! There was no hesitation, knowing I had no deadlines that would prevent me from being able to miss that day of work. However, I heard some skepticism and doubt around the office. Co-workers spoke of how it is only a sales pitch, or they didn't agree with some of the speakers, or it would just be an over-crowded feel good seminar that didn't help, or you would only be brainwashed by what the speakers had to say.
What?!?
My first argument here is that I believe YOU have complete control over whether you will be brainwashed or not. Go in with an OPEN mind but also some healthy sense of skepticism to ask questions and not blindly accept what others say. YOU also have control over whether you spend your money. They may try to sell you the moon, that doesn't mean you don't have to buy it. Know that they will try to sell things and control that for yourself. Say no, move on. The entire seminar is not strictly selling.
Secondly, high profile speakers, no matter what their political affiliation, race, age, sex, religion, or whatever else you want to label them with, are intriguing people. They have had experiences that you and I have not. Whether you agree with them or not, like them or not, they have something to offer. Actually, I believe everyone has something to offer each of us. That's the beauty of people, we are all different in our experiences and our perspectives. Listening to such prominent people speak about what they know and what they have experienced is a blessing. They are where they are for some reason, whether you agree with that or not. You never know what could resonate with you.
Thirdly, it is a FREE, EXCUSED absence from work. Need I say more? Grab the opportunity!
It is a chance to grow, to learn something new, to expand your mind. You don't have to change your mind, but by expanding it to new ideas, thoughts and experiences you can only grow. I cannot say this will or will not benefit me until I go and see for myself. I do not blindly accept someone saying this is life-changing, but I will not blindly accept someone telling me it is not worth my time. I will decide that myself. Even if I end up thinking it is negative, it is one more experience I can cross off my list.
That is my belief. It continues to be a strong belief.
