While dropping off clothes at a local cleaner, I noticed a commotion in the parking lot. A little boy was racing toward me, breathlessly offering candy for sale. I was reminded of my own youth, selling candy door-to-door for a fifty cents commission per box. I promised him to buy some on my way out, noticing his box was full.
Two other boys were also selling candy in the corner, quietly waiting for customers to approach them. Entering the cleaners, I reflected on their contrasting approaches.
On my return, the running boy approached me, this time with only two boxes left. Delighted at finding my favorite candy, I bought a box. No sooner had the transaction concluded, he was off again, chasing the next car and opportunity that pulled into the lot. The two boys in the corner still had their boxes full, seemingly selling none.
This encounter was a powerful business lesson. The enthusiastic boy, seizing every opportunity, sold out his inventory rapidly, while the passive boys struggled. It made me question: Am I capitalizing on every chance that comes my way, like the energetic boy? Or am I idly waiting, like the other two?
This young candy seller taught me to relentlessly seize opportunities. Ask yourself, are you doing the same? The most profound lessons often come from the most unexpected teachers..
