Blogger – Karen J. Gregory
It’s a simple question, “When opportunity knocks, do you answer?”
Or do you hide behind the door because you’re not certain of what to expect on the other side? Or worse, you’re totally oblivious to what stands before you and you’re asking, “what opportunity?”
Recently, I had several new opportunities present themselves. It’s exciting when something comes along that has promising potential, but it’s also nerve-racking at the same time. If you’re like me, you start asking yourself, “Is this really what it appears? What’s the desired outcome? What’s the cost-to-benefit ratio? Can I really make this happen? Do I have enough time to commit?” and the list goes on. You’re left with a decision “Do I answer?”
Generally speaking, the biggest challenge for me is to determine if I REALLY have the resources (time, money, and energy) to seize the opportunity. Through time I’ve discovered 3 simple criteria for consideration when determining whether the opportunity cost is truly worth it — when opportunity knocks, should I answer?
1) Calculated risk: You must determine, after careful estimation, what’s the chance of the opportunity turning into a positive outcome? Can you calculate the probability of the outcome you desire? Is it more probable to end in success or failure? Is it worth it?
2) Stretch yourself: Does the opportunity allow you to stretch your way of thinking? Does it allow you to learn more, to open your aperture on life, and to grow as an individual or business professional? Does it allow you to better yourself and your community?
3) True opportunity: How many times have you been asked to do something, you get totally excited, jump in head first, only to discover at the end you’re feeling used-up and bitter? Resources are precious. And everything is NOT an opportunity. In some cases, what you’re seeing is a mirage of an opportunity. You must analyze what’s before you and ask yourself, “Is this really an opportunity?” Go back and review #1 & #2 above to create the clarity you need to determine if the knocking on the door is really a true opportunity or just a mirage. True opportunities set the stage for good things to come.
So, when the next opportunity comes knocking on your door, ask yourself, “What does the opportunity create for you? Are the circumstances ripe for making something possible? And will it likely end in a positive outcome?” If you like what you see, seize the moment of opportunity and answer the door.
We’d love to hear your stories of a time when opportunity knocked, you answered and it changed your life!
