B1- ADVERSITY - DEVELOPER OF GREATNESS

THE PROFESSIONAL LIFE ADVISER’S GUIDE (Little Gems Series)

B1. (THE PERSON) - ADVERSITY - DEVELOPER OF GREATNESS

Man’s true greatness is seen in times of adversity. The hardships, failures, disappointments and misunderstandings you encounter in business are the tests which show you what you really are. Your strengths are proved and your weaknesses revealed during times of adversity.

When all goes well you can easily deceive yourself, but not so when matters go badly. When things are running smoothly, you may not be improving yourself at all; you may merely be “coasting” on what you have already done or already know. It takes a business crisis to get you to face your weaknesses and want to improve.

Through adversity you see yourself as you really are.

“Adversity,” as Byron put it, “is the first path of truth.

Perhaps it is best that life insurance business tests you so frequently. Those who remain in it are strong, and become stronger. The opportunities for personal development through strengthening of courage are almost limitless in our business.

Take a lesson from the great producers of our business. They say: Accept adversity as a friend, a developer of greatness. Don’t complain when it comes; welcome it and rise to the occasion. Let the difficulties form your stairway to success. Keep a cool head; don’t panic and run. An opportunity invariably comes with adversity and you don’t want to miss.

—Odds and Ends