What’s in a Word?
I have been thinking a lot about the power of words. Words shape our thoughts, guide our actions, and influence our emotions. They hold immense power—sometimes playful, sometimes profound. Over the years, I’ve had two favorite words: hope and dream.
The Power of Hope
Hope is a word with many tentacles. As a child, hope is lighthearted and full of anticipation, hoping Santa will bring you a new truck or a Barbie doll. As you grow, hope takes on new meanings. You hope for the kind teacher in third grade, hope for a second date with someone special, or hope to land the job you’ve worked so hard to secure.
But hope can also be serious. You may hope for financial stability when facing job uncertainty. You may hope your parents live long enough to see their grandchildren graduate. And in even more difficult times, you may hope that a friend battling cancer receives good news, or that a loved one pulls through after a tragic accident.
In sales, hope is ever-present. We hope for a meeting with a key prospect, hope to land a big account, hope for a promotion. Hope keeps us moving forward, giving us something to strive for, but hope alone isn’t enough.
The Magic of Dreaming
Dreaming is where we start to see possibilities unfold. Dreams allow us to create a vision for the future. In sales, we dream about closing big deals, making an impact, and even turning prospects into lifelong customers and friends. Dreaming helps us imagine what is possible, it fuels our ambitions.
For those in sales who genuinely want to solve problems and deliver meaningful solutions, dreaming can be a powerful motivator. We envision the success of our clients, the value we bring to their businesses, and the satisfaction of a job well done. But dreams, much like hope, are only part of the equation.
My New Favorite Word: HAD
Lately, I’ve discovered a new favorite word: had. I know.
It’s not asg lamorous hope or dream. But here’s why it matters. The missing piece between hope and dream is action.
Hope, Action, Dream.
Many people hope for great things to happen. Many people dream about a better future. But few take the action required to turn hope and dreams into reality. The true power lies in had.
Had means you took action.
You had the meeting because you picked up the phone and made the call.
You had the opportunity because you put in the effort.
You had the sale because you followed up, did the research, and truly understood your client’s needs.
Even as a child, Johnny had to take action, he had to tell Santa what he wanted for
Christmas. In sales, we can hope for success and dream of big wins, but only action
bridges the gap between wishing and achieving.
So, had is my new favorite word.
What’s yours?
Journey On,
The Traveling Saleslady
