More Than A Carni
Reading the Art of Money Getting by P.T. Barnum it seems that the story teller changes – and so does the way they’re taught and told – but the story doesn’t. There are some truths of life that are unaffected by time.
“Those who really desire to attain an independence, have only to set their minds upon it, and adopt the proper means…and the thing is easily done. But however easy it may be found to make money, I have no doubt many of my hearers will agree it is the most difficult thing in the world to keep it.”
If only it were as simple as it sounds – maybe it is.
“‘I know all about economy.’ He thinks he does, but he does not.” Barnum reminds us that there’s a difference between being frugal with our money and being stupid.
Avoid Debt
“There is scarcely anything that drags a person down like debt. When you have it mastering you; when interest is constantly piling up against you, it will keep you down in the worst kind of slavery. But let money work for you, and you have the most devoted servant in the world.”
Fight For It
“When a man is in the right path, he must persevere. How many have almost reached the goal of their ambition, but, losing faith in themselves, have relaxed their energies, and the golden prize has been lost forever.”
Whatever You Do, Do It With All Of Your Might
“Work at it, if necessary, early and late, in season and out of season, not leaving a stone unturned, and never deferring for a single hour that which can be done just as well now. The old proverb is full of truth and meaning, ‘whatever is worth doing at all, is worth doing well.’”
Do Not Scatter Your Powers
Systems Systems Systems
“Men should be systematic in their business. A person who does business by rule, having a time and place for everything, doing his work promptly, will accomplish twice as much and with half the trouble of him who does it carelessly and slipshod.”
The Golden Rule
“Be polite and kind to your customers. Be charitable. Don’t blab.”
Preserve Your Integrity
“It is more precious than diamonds and rubies.” And in the end, it’s all you’ve got.
Paula Henry
August 27, 2008 at 6:20 am
Vicki – Wisdom worth repeating. Speaking of scattering your powers – I think that is easier to do in our business than any other. With the change in the market, many change their direction, going after the next great way to make money, whether short sales, REO or lease/option opportunities.
While I believe it is good to know and understand what is happening in the market, we must determine what we are good at, what best fits us, then, do it with all our might.
Vicki Moore
August 27, 2008 at 11:49 am
Paula – I completely agree. When times get difficult we can’t help but be pulled in other directions. It’s easy to get caught up in wanting to try other things.
Thanks for your input.