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Word Wednesday

"I always encourage people to pay attention to patterns, not potential. All of us have the potential to do better in our weak areas, but can we live with each other's patterns?"


In his new book, "Relationship Goals," Michael Todd shares the above quote. I think a lot of us get caught up in the potential of a mate, an investment, or a job offer so much so that we sometimes fail to make an honest assessment of the most likely outcome by studying the patterns.  Past performance is often the most accurate indicator of future performance.


If he/she has a reputation for being unfaithful, unkind, un-whatever, what makes you think they'll change now?


When looking at investments, look at 5 - 10 year historical performances. If 2020 has taught us anything, it's how crazy the market can be quarter to quarter.


When considering a company to work for, talk to current and former employees about the environment and staff there. Trust me when I say there's more to a position than the salary.


Believe in people, believe they can change. Believe that businesses can turn things around if needed. But don't be blinded to the patterns by the potential you want to see.

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