Michael B. Maine
Yoda
Now, I’ve never watched a Star Wars movie (I know. I actually have been living under a rock), but I was readingSex, Drugs, and Cocoa Puffs, by Chuck Klosterman where I came across Jedi Master Yoda’s quote, “Do, or do not. There is no ‘try.’”
At that point I put the book down and reflected on what I just read. I agree with Yoda. When we attempt something, we have to pursue it as though there is no option to fail. Too often, we go into a situation with the sentiment that, if we don’t reach the desired outcome, we can at least say we tried. Sometimes we will fail, but we can’t allow ourselves to go into something expecting to. I understand we’re not going to win each and every time, but shooting for just good enough or the attempt will ensure that we never reach success.
Do or do not. There is no try.
Michael Maine is the founder and chief strategy officer of Menrva Labs , working with small businesses and non-profits to build sustainable business and marketing strategies. Follow Michael on Twitter at @michaelbmaine and @menrvalabs.
