The problem with taking offense is that it's really hard to figure out what to do with it after you're done using it. Better to just leave it on the table and walk away. Umbrage untaken quietly disappears.
Seth GodinRead
Not adding value is the same as taking it away.
Interpretation
Contributing positively is essential; failing to do so is equivalent to detracting from overall value.
Seth Godin's quote emphasizes the importance of actively adding value in any endeavor. If one does not contribute positively or enhance a situation, it can be perceived as undermining its worth, thereby equating inactivity with negativity. In various contexts, whether in business, relationships, or personal growth, the absence of value creation is akin to reducing the existing value, highlighting the necessity of engagement and contribution.
In practice
During a team meeting to discuss project contributions.
The problem with taking offense is that it's really hard to figure out what to do with it after you're done using it. Better to just leave it on the table and walk away. Umbrage untaken quietly disappears.
Excellence isn’t about meeting the spec, it’s about setting the spec. It defines what the consumer sees as quality right this minute, and tomorrow, if you’re good, you’ll reset that expectation again
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The danger of the Web is that you can go from idea to public announcement in under ten minutes.
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I made a decision to write for my readers, not to try to find more readers for my writing.
Screw the competition - focus on good customer service.
You should learn from your competitor, but never copy. Copy and you die.
Thinking about starting a small business? Assume everything will cost twice as much and take twice as long as you think it will.
So many businesses get worried about looking like they might make a mistake, they become afraid to take any risk. Companies are set up so that people judge each other on failure. I am not going to get fired if we have a bad year. Or a bad five years. I don’t have to worry about making things look good if they’re not. I can actually set up the company to create value.
In a period of economic downturn, the overwhelming instinct is to pare back, cut costs, and lay off. If you do that, do so with your strategy in mind. The worst mistake is to cut across the board. Instead, reconnect and recommit to a clear strategy that will distinguish yourself from others.
Growth makes so many dimensions of management easier. It's when growth stops that things get tough.
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