Thinking in Deficits

Lately I've been in a foul mood, so I took a little blogging break, but now I'm back at it. I'm a little overwhelmed, but still excited, about "being responsible for my own success." I've been talking with people I trust, vetting ideas, and trying to imagine what my future will hold.

Last nite, I had drinks with one of my mentors. She runs her own HR Consulting firm. We met at a Society for Human Resource Management meeting 5 years ago and became friends. She came to my wedding 2 years ago. A networking success story, I suppose.

We talked about how good business partnerships can suddenly go bad. She mentioned a concept I'd never heard put into words before: Thinking in Deficits.

I'm sure there are a ton of books I've never read (or plan to read) explaining this idea. But, I like the way she applies it. My friend believes the moment you begin focusing on "what people owe you" is the moment you deviate from your path to success.

For example, some days, she might have this thought: "Client X doesn't pay me enough for all the work I do for them." This is thinking in a deficit. She works too much, Client X doesn't pay her enough.

So, she forces herself to change her thinking. "I do a lot for Client X. Client X has helped me grow as a professional. Revenue from Client X supports my business, and I am grateful. Now, I will assemble a thoughtful proposal and speak with Client X about rate changes. Then, I will be paid appropriately for my expertise. I will also enjoy working with Client X more."

Ultimately, Client X not paying enough is her problem, not his. Client X doesn't pay enough because she doesn't charge enough. I like this logic. My mentor takes responsibility for her own success. She knows the world doesn't owe her anything, but she has the confidence to go out there and create her own fortune.

I challenge you to avoid Thinking in Deficits this week. Let me know how it goes by commenting on the blog. Good luck!