posted
I often hear the comment that I'm lucky. Lucky to live where we do. Lucky to be able to do the things we do. Lucky to have the things we enjoy.
I certainly feel fortunate and blessed to have all these things. I am overjoyed to be able to do what I love for a living. I love where we live. I love those I am blessed to have in my life.
But I don't think for a moment it all happened by chance. Life doesn't happen that way.
That being said I fully understand we all have different things we must deal with. Health issues, local employment, accidents, crisis in our families and other factors can make life difficult at times and can even severely limit our options at various times. Those are the cards each of us are dealt and must play... but I don't believe its the big things which determine who you are or where you live or what you have... its the little things.
The bulk of our lives has more to do with the choices we make each day, often very small things that effect us and the outcome of our lives for many years.
Each of us makes choices through every day. What time to we get up, what time do we go to bed, how much we relax, what work do we do, what do we read, who are our friends, what do we seek out and learn, how much do we save, how much do we spend, what we eat, what habits do we have (good and bad) and a thousand other things... which we each dertermine.
Most are small things, seemingly unimportant, and not connected. I believe EVERYTHING we do and EACH choice we make is interconnected and determines who we are, both now and in the future. Those little choices determine our path through life. We each must take responsibility for our lives and the choices we make each day.
I've posted many times how my dream projects (especially large ones) are accomplished with small steps at a time, most often over many years. Not much comes easily, nor without a lot of effort and planning.
In our business and personal lives its very much the same. I get an idea, research it thoroughly, justify it in my brain, sell it to those whose support I need and then plan it out carefully - while being flexible enough to allow for what really happens in life, molding and adapting our plan as we go.
Seemingly unconnected things, like building blocks are carefully set into place. Most often those around me don't know whats happening for a long while. There appears to be little rhyme nor reason... until what I have longed dreamed (and worked) for is within reach, suddenly seems achieveable... without much apparent effort. I get 'lucky' once more. The reality is much different.
As the new year approaches I would encourage everyone to set about getting 'lucky' in their own lives this coming year. Write down some goals... both big and small. Think about what it will take to realistically achieve them. Then conciously make choices EVERY day that will allow you to make some progress towards your goals and dreams.
Don't forsake today for the future. Enjoy the people and things you are already blessed with. Be happy while working towards an even better tomorrow. Take joy in the small stuff that happens each day. Purposefully let the things that bother you slide, simply learning from them.
Each decision you face through each day needs to be carefully measured... does it further your long term goals? Make it so. Be purposely positive in your outlook.
It won't be long until those around you think your luck has suddenly changed and you'll have them wondering just how you got to be so fortunate.
I believe 2008 may just be my 'lucky' year in Yarrow...
-grampa dan
[ December 30, 2007, 07:37 PM: Message edited by: Dan Sawatzky ]
-------------------- Dan Sawatzky Imagination Corporation Yarrow, British Columbia dan@imaginationcorporation.com http://www.imaginationcorporation.com
Being a grampa is one of the the most wonderful things in the world!!! Posts: 8738 | From: Yarrow, B.C. Canada | Registered: Nov 1998
| IP: Logged |
posted
Gee whiz Dan. Thank you for another one of your insights into life.
I rarely click on any of your threads, because I find them to be quite vomit inducing and have always held back on saying that they are.
But give us all a break!! Hogging bandwidth to tell everyone what a great life you have and how we should and could be like you is getting old.
At the risk at this being some sorta personal attack, I find your threads to be nothing but simple bragging and arrogance.
I've met you in person a couple times and you were a joy to be around. But these threads that you start all the time about how great you are and how great we should be like you is really irking me.
I wish all of you and your family a great holiday season!!
Finally Said sumthin' Stevo
Posts: 1680 | From: Edmonton Ab Canada EH! | Registered: May 2001
| IP: Logged |
posted
Well Stevo... sorry you took it that way. Its not what I intended.
I'd suggest you refrain from clicking on more of my threads. I'd hate for you to get sick... especially over the holidays.
Happy New Year!
-grampa dan
-------------------- Dan Sawatzky Imagination Corporation Yarrow, British Columbia dan@imaginationcorporation.com http://www.imaginationcorporation.com
Being a grampa is one of the the most wonderful things in the world!!! Posts: 8738 | From: Yarrow, B.C. Canada | Registered: Nov 1998
| IP: Logged |
posted
I'm trying to remember if I've ever heard Dan badmouth someone else's specific methods for doing things. He might talk in general terms about excuses that people make for not succeeding, but I don't remember when he has singled anyone out for criticism. He invites people to try something different if what they're doing isn't working. He lights a candle instead of cursing the darkness.
I don't read every single post on the BB, and I don't read every one of Dan's, but his positive outlook on life has changed the way I look at many things. Keep it up Dan.
My mind wanders. And that's not a good thing, 'cause it's too small to be out there alone. Posts: 3129 | From: Tooele, UT | Registered: Mar 2005
| IP: Logged |
posted
Why do you guys always wait until 1am in the Morning to decide to lose it? Stevo has done the unthinkable. I envision Letterheads, either pro Dan or anti Dan chosing their weapons for the battle about to erupt here come morning.
I do wish Stevo had chosen his words more carefully. It's far better to attack a point of view rather than a person. Too late for that now! The cat is out of the bag.
Yes Virginia. There are negative thinkinging people in Letterville, as well as our real World. I'm big on positive thinking myself. Well...most of the time.
There are always those occasions I am down in the dumps and feeling defeated. The last thing I wanna hear is that freeking Theme from Rocky, or that people are praying for me. I appreciate all that stuff, but the real truth is a bag of cash might be more welcome than a sermon on positive thinging. Especially if money problems are behind your negative thinking.
Those of us who are bi-polar are the real winners in the great positive vs negative debate. We can be either, or both at the same time, depending on the time of day and number of meds flowing in our blood stream.
Everyone take a big, deep breath. I'm not surprized to learn that everyone is not always positive. Even Dan has a negative post. I saw it myself on his car battery.
Seriously folks. All of us have our ups and downs. How each of us chooses to deal with those emotions is up to each of us. Barb and I really wish you would not post your frustrations here on the BB. It seems to inspire readers to form sides.
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
Your post certainly reminds me to re-focus. Just wondering through life, getting the jobs done, is wasteful of energy and time. Thanks for the reminder.
This is the time of year for a whole new set of goals. I'm gonna set down and focus long and short term desired accomplishments. If I wirte them out Long Hand they seem to come along even better.
Also, I enjoy your posts and wish you well.
Wishing all Sign Artists the best for the New Year!
-------------------- Joe Crumley Norman Sign Company 2200 Research Park Blvd. Norman, OK 73069 Posts: 1428 | From: 2200 Research Park Blvd. | Registered: Sep 2001
| IP: Logged |
posted
I, for one, and can only speak for myself... enjoy your posts (and Donna's)- upbeat and positive thinking resonates in my live and helps move me along. Happy New Year to all- Cat
-------------------- Catharine C. Kennedy CCK Graphics 1511 Route 28 Chatham Center, NY 12184 cck1620@taconic.net "Look at me, Look at me, Look at me now! I't's fun to have fun, But you have to know how!" Posts: 2173 | From: downtown Chatham Center, NY | Registered: Feb 2004
| IP: Logged |
posted
I personally try to position myself around people with positive outlook, which is very rare these days- it is very easy to have the "woe-is-me, everybody's against me, my life sucks" attitude... I should know, I find myself muttering those words a lot more than I should. I even think that we all go through those times where that would be about the most positive thing we could say about where we are in life. Sometimes we are in valleys and other times we claw our way back up the mountain. I have wasted many years around people who are content to stay down in the valley and want you there with them.
I have never read in Dan's post anywhere where he is implying that if everybody does it his way, the stars will align, and life will be wonderful. He usually states just the opposite and always reminds us that his life is far from perfect, just like everybody elses. He is simply reporting on the view from his perspective as he is clawing his way up the mountain.
I have read where he has spent many years working and finally is starting to see some fruits of his labor. I read where he is happy and enjoying his grandkids, where work is now beyond a four letter word and something that he looks forward to. I applaud him for his honesty - not all jobs or projects are earthshattering creative marvels, some just simply pay the bills or at best cause us to do better on the next project. I rarely read of him dwelling or bragging about past projects, as much as anticipating future stuff-- what's bad about that? That is a key part of how we creative type people are designed.
-------------------- Michael Clanton Clanton Graphics/ Blackberry 19 Studio 1933 Blackberry Conway AR 72034 501-505-6794 clantongraphics@yahoo.com Posts: 1735 | From: Conway Arkansas | Registered: Oct 2001
| IP: Logged |
posted
Very inspiring as usual Dan...I enjoy you're posts, you're articles, you're work...keep being a great role model for the rest of us....I am fortunate enuf to have a "Sawatsky Orignal" on the Bus Garage in Mazeppa facing North, and It is a pleasure to view it on a daily basis...
THANK YOU DAN
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!
-------------------- Mike Meyer Sign Painter 189 1st Ave n P.O. Box 3 Mazeppa, Mn 55956
We are not selling, we are staying here in Mazeppa....we cannot re-create what we have here....not in another lifetime! SO Here we are!!!!!!!
posted
Quote from Johann Wolfgang von Goethe "The person born with a talent they are meant to use, will find their greatest happiness in using it." It just so happen in Dan case it not just a talent at work but how he puts thought to word. Here's wishing all a Very Happy New Year.
-------------------- Pat Welter Masterhand Signs and Designs Unity, Saskatchewan.Canada Posts: 1304 | From: Unity, Saskatchewan.Canada | Registered: May 1999
| IP: Logged |
quote:Don't forsake today for the future. Enjoy the people and things you are already blessed with. Be happy while working towards an even better tomorrow. Take joy in the small stuff that happens each day. Purposefully let the things that bother you slide, simply learning from them.
So few words, so much truth. As with yourself, I didn't figure these things out overnight. Now that I have, life is so much sweeter. I applaud you Dan for trying to show us some shortcuts. I don't know why we resist learning from other mistakes and the wisdom they've gathered. In an effort to repay you for some of your inspiration, here's a couple of truths for you and the rest of you folks in mild climates. Never touch your tongue on frozen metal and never eat yellow snow.
posted
Dan, thanks for your input to Letterheads, I enjoy and benefit from your comments and thoughts. I hope to catch up with you at another meet sometime.
-------------------- Paul Jordan Jordan Signs http://jordansigns.com.au paul@jordansigns.com.au Australia "We don't stop playing because we get old, we get old because we stop playing" George Bernard Shaw, I think. Posts: 166 | From: Caringbah, N.S.W., Australia | Registered: Nov 1999
| IP: Logged |
posted
Here's a quote I truly believe in... "If you have nothing good to say...don't say anything at all"....this also would keep others from forming an opinion of you, Stevo, that don't know you. (like myself, but maybe you had a bad nite ?) Now Dan, I was lucky enough to meet you at the Maritime Letterhead Round-Up, this past August, and I must say you gave a very inspirational speech near the end of the letterhead meet...actually I'd love to have a copy of it !! I'd put it up in my office where I could read it every day to keep me pumped !!! Because at that time I really needed something or someone to give me encouragement ..a "kick"..and your speech did it for me. We all have had bad times and good times in the sign industry... but I truly believe some of these people maybe should get into something else if they hate hearing someone talk positive notes about ...LONG TERM GOALS, POSITIVE OUTLOOK, DREAMS...etc, etc, etc. ( all GREAT to me!!)I love anything positive to read ...more power to you Dan !! p.s ..there is a place to post privately to the person you want to be frank to..right?
posted
I remember someone once saying that luck is where preparation and opportunity meet. Opportunity is revealed to many of us when we're not prepared for it. Many are prepared and never find the opportunity. Some of what I think Dan is talking about is that small decisions have put him many times in the place where that union exists. Perhaps him not knowing the other side might be understood by some as arrogance. I find Dan to be a humble sort that wants to share and help.
Dan, if you mentioned some of the things that you've not succeeded with and some of the setbacks and failures, perhaps some of the others might see your human side and then understand how you learn from mistakes and make corrections.
Happy new year to you all.
Small decisions do have consequenses, and working hard with a focus on the goal has consequenses
-------------------- The SignShop Mendocino, California
Making the simple complicated is commonplace; making the complicated simple, awesomely simple, that's creativity. — Charles Mingus Posts: 6712 | From: Mendocino, CA. USA | Registered: Nov 1998
| IP: Logged |
posted
Thanks for another upbeat post Dan. I always enjoy read your perspective on things. I have seen the old saying "negativity breeds negativity" proven true time & time again. I made a conscious decision some time back to eliminate the negativity from my life, as much as I could. It is because of that that I make it a point to always read your posts while always scrolling past those of some others. While I still have my bad days, I've seen the difference that decision has made in my life. It's gotten to where I can feel that I'm being affected by someone's negativity and have to distance myself from them asap.
You've had bad things happen to you like we all have. The difference is that you didn't dwell on the negativity of it and let that absorb you. The basement flooding & drenching all your paperwork comes to mind, a priceless story and wonderfully told.
Keep the positive energy flowing, Dan.
-------------------- Chris Welker Wildfire Signs Indiana, Pa Posts: 4254 | From: Indiana, PA | Registered: Mar 2001
| IP: Logged |
There are 5 icons to the right of one's picture. Touch them with your curser and there's one that reads 'send private message.' That's the one you want. Or to simply email them direct of course, also one of the icons.
Thanks for the encouragement Dan. Lands on a very good day!
posted
Doug and I had abit of a run in a few months back, which is all sorted now, as if it had never happened, its a funny old medium this, we all sit in very different situations, and in different time zones.
Its easy to misunderstand, its easy if your having a bad day, to feel irked maybe by someone who is always so postive, and because of communicating like this its hard to show more than what's seen on the page.
I had preformed ideas and pictures of many here, I've been hanging around here over 10 years, then I went to my first real meet, and found it such an incredible experience, and then the next meet and more faces from here, more new and some old, and another mindblowing time, and so on.
I've always admired Dans enthusiasm, his style, his approach to jobs, was really impressed with his router skills in such a short time, and knew I had to make the effort to get to Yarrow.
The guy was full on from first thing in the morning to bedtime, its his way, his thrill with what he does, and the generosity of wanting to share that with others both here, face to face or through publications.
I made some very great friends in Yarrow, and had an experience I wont forget.
I love your work too Steve, I bought some of your clipart too, you're a talented guy, I would have thought especially in view of the fact you've met Dan , that you'd share his enthusiasm, for this great trade we work in.
Maybe it was just a bad day.
Happy New year to both of you! its 1.40am Jan 1st 2008 already over here, sitting miles out in the woods sitting with a dodgy mobile broadband setup
posted
Happy New Year Dan! I don't come on here much, rarely know what to say to you, but let me say you are inspiring and do remind me to get things right. That includes a great attitude. Me, I think the hardest part of seeking success is just plain plugging away at the less glamorous more disciplined parts of being an artist/creator. You seem to have an ability to manage people, but I tend to work alone and have to slog through the mundane aspects of some jobs unassisted. Doesn't get me down and sometimes I even think of something or other you've written at such times.
Happy New Year
-------------------- Frank Smith Frank Smith Signs Albany, NY www.franksmithsigns.com Posts: 807 | From: Albany, NY USA | Registered: Nov 1998
| IP: Logged |
posted
This one unexpected twist in this thread also got me thinking of my role in that recent insensitive exchange between Henry and myself. I recall how much better I felt when I wrote him to explain where he had misjudged me, and to apologize for publically judging him. He wrote back & things were easily cleared up. (except for the innocent bystander who decided to write off my worthiness & ignore my emails... but now that's his business)
I ended up talking with Steve that week too, because our Mayor really does want to see the best in people, but when we let him see us at our worst, I think sometimes he'd rather not see us at all.
This negative viewpoint of Dan is not original, and it's not the first time it's been said in public. As Ray has said, those who lead do make easy targets. My favorite college professor said "the tallest tree takes the most breeze" (he was a martial artist and a buddhist)
It's true that Dan is quite well known for never saying unkind things about others around here. (& elsewhere, I'm sure) I am somewhat envious about that, as it will surely never be said about me
I remember writing Dan once, because I thought while his router wars posts might be all in good fun... I thought they might have created an unwelcome spotlight forcing another to be held up to scrutiny they might not have desired. I wondered if Dan might have been taking one too many victory laps to remain sportsmanlike. He wrote back & I realized he was just being his usual good natured self... and knew my concerns were unfounded, but he also knew I only inquired out of concern for another. Funny (in an odd way) that the "other" was another of many with whom I've crossed swords at one time myself.
Yes, Ive crossed swords many times around here, and I have regretted it many of those times, but it's good to be able to identify traits we'd like to overcome. I think that's what this thread is about really. I've ben blessed with many things working out according to my plans. Like Dan, I know there is a lot more then luck behind the setting of my goals, the plotting a course to persue my goals, and the long hard road to accomplishing my goals.
Even if some people consider it bragging, I have written both here, and on another board, about the process of realizing some of my goals, because nobody can understand some of the trials and tribulations of a sign guy as well as another sign guy, or gal. I have faith in the ability for others to find a gem of information that has meaning for them & I like to tell stories of the small accomplishments I've encountered because of those who may benefit. It is also an affirmation for my own benefit, to recognize what IS working in my life, and to shout it from the mountaintop.
Seeing who's shouting what from their own mountaintop is a research project that has it's time and place. I don't always read Dan's threads the first time I see them. I know I will benefit from reading most of them when I am in just the right frame of mind. Other times, I'm ready for comic relief, or a chance to help someone else, or a small precise tip on one specific sign technique... but when I'm ready for a pep talk or an inspiring reminder of the power to create our own destiny.. them I'm fine with Dan telling us one more little bit about the great life he has. I have a great life too, but I also got it, by seeing it first & then aiming for it... and like relaxing in the surf... there are changing currents all around, so we should never rest on our laurels... we must continue creating the great life we want to live. It's an ongoing process, and saying it out loud is as important for ourselves as it may be inspiring for others.
posted
Nice post Doug. I'm sure glad things worked out between us. People have a bad habit of wasting time and energy trying to fix the blame instead of the problem. Getting in the last hit isn't always as satisfying as it might seem.
Everyday I am bombarded with warm fussy emails. It's all puppy dogs, kittens, angels, random acts of kindness, missing children stories we all know are modern folklore, religious chain letters....the list goes on and on. And that's just from my Mom.
Is there any of you who can honestly say you read all of this stuff? I'd prefer an email written by a real Friend that cares, instead of an barrage of forwarded, feel good trash. Sometimes a person is bound to snap.
Letterville isn't much different than a real town. We love to gossip. Every night the phone lines are busy as we chat with own personal friends and groups. I often hear much of the talk because I'm very nosey. Seems that I too have a real need to know the latest dirt.
Dan's posts are always popular treats to munch on. People either love them or hate them. Let me clarify that. It's not Dan himself that is disrespected, it's his way of thinking. I've known the Man for years and it's sincere. Im always on my best behavior around Dan. And Rick Sacks. These guys are the real deal. They scare me.
I think we all believe that positive thinking is a good thing. My first exposure came as a result of books and tapes on selling. At that time I was stuck in a factory job everyone said I was lucky to have. Trouble was I dreamed of running my own sign business.
Those books and tapes helped brainwash me and I loved it. They convinced me I was as good as anyone else and could achieve whatever I believed. They taught me to only accept advice from those who have ,or are doing what you want to do. That thinking resulted in me walking out that factory door in 1983. I can still hear my "buddies" telling me that I'd be back.
There have also been times of miserable failure. Its easy to be positive when things are going well, but I found it very hard when the World is crumbling around me. Financial failure, family and personal problems. Then the best of all. A series of heart attacks that results in being told you are disabled, unable to work and will die an early death due to sudden heart failure.
My Sister had discovered positive thinking by this time. Her talk of miracles, angels, and cosmic energy made me want to chase her out of the hospital room. What I needed was a new heart, but my stinking diabetes eliminated me as a candidate.
By this time there wasn't a positive bone left in my body. I was 40 years old with 4 kids at home. My answer was anger. To be honest, it's now 15 years later and I'm afraid its still anger and bitterness that motivates me.
We're all family here so I'm going to share a little secret. My way is not really working. I feel like an empty shell inside. In reality all that anger is really directed at myself.
I've said far more than I intended when I started. It's pretty easy to junp all over Stevo and others like him and myself that have a real problem understanding this positive thinking stuff. There are times when we walk in the darkness of fear and depression. It zaps you of energy and joy. Just love and care about each other. That's what positive thinking is really all about.
[ January 01, 2008, 06:50 AM: Message edited by: Steve Shortreed ]
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
posted
I/we went through a tough time 21-24 years ago, culminating with a freak house fire, uninsured, loss of everything, and shortly after that, the death of my greatest living mentor.
After welling in self pity for an indeterminate period of time over the dreadful waste of what was lost, I read somewhere that the only thing we can really control is our attitude. I chose then to become optimistic, no matter what, since the alternative was a pretty miserable unproductive one, and I'd spent enough time being there.
It's easy to get dragged back into negativity, and takes some reaffirmation to stay on top. Despite the miserable drought we've had here for the past 8 years, which has eased currently, and the associated money problems from that plus a couple of badly quoted jobs and some clients who ripped me off, and a nasty car accident, I was always grateful that things weren't worse. Grateful for the small things, and for the longer term goals which slowly but surely fell into place, as Dan says, by plugging along from assorted angles, a bit like a yacht tacking in the wind.
Steve, I read in a Carnegie book on giving speeches that it is human nature to want to listen to gossip! (therefore, to engage your audience, a speech which has undertones or an appearance of gossip will be more readily enjoyed/endured).
Perhaps it's because others want to learn about others less fortunate, in order to feel better about themselves; I don't know. Read the newspapers- not much good news. Read the most popular 'people' magazines: gossip (followed by conflict & some apparent misery) is the main content, outside advertising. Unfortuantely, comparing yourself in many ways with others, when done in the wrong frame of mind, generally just makes one bitter. With practice, you can learn to switch off & snap out of that angle.
Alternately, come here, log-in for morning tea (smokoh), and read Dan's posts for a nicer outlook on life & business! (I for one don't interpret them as boasting in any way, but as good advice, and a guide.)
I gave a bit of a speech at out letterheads meet, thanking others past & present who'd influenced me, and I mentioned that going back 15-21 years ago I used to really admire the work of certain signies. About 15 years ago it dawned on me that rather than looking up to (or at) them, I could take steps to become one of them instead, and that thought that I could also be that good, if I really wanted to try, was a great inspiration. It's a looong journey, but a possible one, if the will is there.
I see Dan's posts as a similar set of freely offered instructions (in a mild disguise) to others who'd like them, on how to become an equal with him and his progress & productivity. This is great! Posting (his) goals publicly is a good way of ensuring you/he stays focused on those goals- it's much harder to 'wimp out' and change your mind when the whole world knows what you've said!
Faith gets you a long way- faith in others, faith in yourself, and faith from others. Sure, bills and pressure gets progress made too, but from a different mental angle. You can choose which mental angle will motivate you, on a daily basis.
When one door closes, another opens- but it can be hard to turn and look, and then to recognise the new one when you finally stumble near it. It sure is opportunity meeting preparation- coupled with a willingness to look at things from different perspectives, and a touch of risk-taking- which gets us to those goals.
I believe we are all being watched over, and guided, but you still have to do your own looking and driving.
HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!
edited to fix some sticky keys typos and to say sorry I haven't renewed my residents' fees yet- it's on its way!
[ January 01, 2008, 07:42 AM: Message edited by: Ian Stewart-Koster ]
-------------------- "Stewey" on chat
"...there are no limits when you aim for perfection..." Jonathan Livingston Seagull Posts: 7014 | From: Highgrove via Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia | Registered: Dec 2002
| IP: Logged |
posted
P.S. the idea of 'luck' reminds me of a TV money show commentator downunder who commented once that it took him 25 years to become an 'overnight success'. Luck indeed! Hard work, faith & perseverance, coupled with luck, maybe!
-------------------- "Stewey" on chat
"...there are no limits when you aim for perfection..." Jonathan Livingston Seagull Posts: 7014 | From: Highgrove via Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia | Registered: Dec 2002
| IP: Logged |
For the last few days, I've returned to my part time job as a bouncer, and being New Year's Eve last night, I fully expected a packed house and busy night, but was also looking forward to seeing familiar faces and friends to ring in the year with as I have in the past.
Around 10:30 or so, one of the bartenders informed me that a young man had a questionable ID and was not going to be served. As we have 2 bars in the building, part of my duties is to see that the decision is known to ALL the bar staff and went upstairs to pass the word on. As I got there, the same young man had stepped up to the main bar. I called him over and asked for his identification. He handed me a driver's license which clearly wasn't his...he looked nothing like the photo on it...and I passed it to our bar manager who then offered to verify it with a quick phone call to the local police. The young man, who knew full well that he was in the wrong, then "pushed his luck" thinking that we we placing a bluff on him. After a quick phone call, we knew for sure his ID was false and despite a quick disappearing act, the PD soon after took it...and him...into custody.
The rest of the night went very well and after a little extra cleaning up, I got home to see that I'd won a prize in this month's Letterville draw. Some good luck.
I don't doubt the there's a certain amount of luck in this universe, but past the the luck of the draw, I don't think it determines where you are going in life. Our choices have far greater influence and how we make them determines our course...be they good or bad.
Rapid
-------------------- Ray Rheaume Rapidfire Design 543 Brushwood Road North Haverhill, NH 03774 rapidfiredesign@hotmail.com 603-787-6803
I like my paint shaken, not stirred. Posts: 5648 | From: North Haverhill, New Hampshire | Registered: Apr 2003
| IP: Logged |
posted
I appreciate the support... and the criticism too. I'm listening carefully. Every time I post or visit with another letterhead I listen carefully to the replies.
The last few days have been very heartening as many folks have taken the time to phone me, email me and encourage me. Thanks!
The last thing I want to do is come off as a brag who has all the answers... for that simply isn't true. Not by a long shot.
Most of what I've learned about the sign business in the early years was learned on my own... although I talked with others - few wanted to share their secrets. I knew of no place I could go to school for this knowlege. None of that slowed me much and through it I was determined that I would freely share what I learned, given the opportunity.
In a few days I celebrate my 54th birthday. Not old (by my current measure ) but a bunch of miles down life's hiway nonetheless... enough to gather a fair bit of experience and learn plenty. I've made so many mistakes, still do daily, but I am determined to learn from each of them.
Over the years we've also had many employees. These folks have taught me (and still do) the most about the sign business... and about life.
Through exposure here on this forum, through magazines, trade shows and at Letterhead meets, by travelling around the country and doing a wide variety of projects I've become fairly well known in the industry... who would have thought it was possible to become a 'famous' sign guy??? That makes me laugh.
I get a number of phone calls and emails each week... seeking answers to questions relating to the work we do. I share what I can. People drop in for a visit to the studio on a regular basis... it amazes me really, for often they have come a long ways out of their way to do so. Each time I come in contact with someone I am determined to share freely with them, give them the answers they seek as I am able.
Undoubtably each I come in contact with also has a fair bit of knowlege and experience... thats a fact. Most, especially when encouraged, will share their way of doing things. their experience, and in the process teach me something new. In sharing my knowlege I get to learn. Its a win-win experience every time.
I've also learned that teaching is the very best (and quickest) way to learn myself. When I sit and prepare I quickly figure out just how little I actually know... it forces me to ask why? Why do I do things the way I do? Why do I do them in the order I do? Why does it work? Would another way work better?
In our workshops I am rapidly put to the test... for most who come are very knowlegeable themselves and quick to question my quirky and unusual ways and methods.
There's a few here who have born the brunt (in person)of one of my favorite debates... a passionate tirade really... started when someone tells me they could 'never do work as good as mine'. That statement will get me going every single time...
Why not? I see raw talent which beats anything inside me by a country mile - all around me. I see youth, with years before them to gather and perfect the skills they need. I see unlimited opportunity, more than I could ever imagine in my younger years. I see so much potential. All these folks need is a driving passion to simply do it. They have to want it... want it bad... and then do what it takes to get it. The only thing stopping most people in their lives is their own self doubt. If I can help cancel that then I have achieved the greatest thing possible.
The one thing most people lack is the confidence to follow their hearts, the ability to believe in themselves.
More than anything else I want to play a small part in lighting those fires!
I get down sometimes... knocked down flat. I get discouraged on occasion. We have customers who don't pay their bills promptly, and our bills that are due nevertheless. The weather is sometimes bad when I really need to do a job outside. I get frustrated by clients who don't return my calls, who regect a wonderful design, and instead ask for something boring. Things happen at our house, the roof blows off, the basement floods, things break, Janis sometimes gets on my case about stupid things I do, chores not done... I do NOT live a charmed life.
But I do tend to see the bright side of things. I purposely let the negative stuff slide off me, concentrate on the good things which happen daily. I purposely take the time to enjoy a hug from Phoebe or Janis, or anyone else near to make it all better. Seeing and appreciating the positive side of things makes me happier, much more able to be creative.
I also believe that looking for the best in others and believing in them encourages them to do their personal best. I've seldom been disappointed. Those are my personal secrets to success.
I appreciate the opportunity to use this forum to share my thoughts and ideas. I'm actually surprised more don't answer my posts with the statement that I am sometimes full of crap. I certainly don't have all the answers, don't know all that much. I'm just sharing what I do manage to figure out, from my unique perspective.
If I am able to help or encourage a few, thats very cool. If my statements just make you mad.. well I'm sorry. I understand. Thanks for letting me know.
Still learning daily in Yarrow...
-grampa dan
[ January 01, 2008, 01:46 PM: Message edited by: Dan Sawatzky ]
-------------------- Dan Sawatzky Imagination Corporation Yarrow, British Columbia dan@imaginationcorporation.com http://www.imaginationcorporation.com
Being a grampa is one of the the most wonderful things in the world!!! Posts: 8738 | From: Yarrow, B.C. Canada | Registered: Nov 1998
| IP: Logged |
posted
Very well said on all counts, Dan! And... thanks, Stevo, for starting this enlightening thread!!! Cat
-------------------- Catharine C. Kennedy CCK Graphics 1511 Route 28 Chatham Center, NY 12184 cck1620@taconic.net "Look at me, Look at me, Look at me now! I't's fun to have fun, But you have to know how!" Posts: 2173 | From: downtown Chatham Center, NY | Registered: Feb 2004
| IP: Logged |
posted
Dan, I wish I could write like you. Among other attributes, you are the Dale Carnegie of our craft. I read about 10% of your posts, probably because I'm already as optimistic as you, farm out my router work, live 3,000 miles away, can use the time to help make some of my own luck, and like to be with my family, ...but when I so much as see your name here I am reminded to stay positive, always do my best (Golden Rule) and be grateful for all life offers us.
He didn't mean it the way I do, but my dad used to say I should thank my lucky stars. Thanks, Dan.
[ January 01, 2008, 03:48 PM: Message edited by: Frank Smith ]
-------------------- Frank Smith Frank Smith Signs Albany, NY www.franksmithsigns.com Posts: 807 | From: Albany, NY USA | Registered: Nov 1998
| IP: Logged |
posted
If someone's posts are irritating you I suggest the first thing you do is figure out why. If you are honest with yourself I think you'll find out they are quite often based on how you feel about yourself. The posts that really irritate me are the negative ones....so why is that? I think it is because that attitude is in each and every one of us and I try hard not to allow that side of me to surface. Being a positive person is a conscious choice and requires continuous re-enforcement. Dan's posts are great for that and I believe they not only re-enforce others, but Dan as well.
There has been the odd time when I've read one of Dan's posts and found myself somewhat irritated. But I know that has nothing to do with Dan and everything to do with me. Although I think I'm for the most part a pretty upbeat person, there are occasionally those days when it is just hard to see the sunshine through the gloom. Let's face it we all have those days, (even Dan)
So while I am taking a break from sticking my 846th decal on a license plate and cutting my 3380-3384th holes through it, hearing how Dan only does "outrageous" work that he chooses, I may get a tad grumpy. Why? ...because I am jealous and I'd rather be doing something outrageous. In my world I need to do some mundane work in order to pay my bills. I believe it is true that if I played my cards right and worked real hard I could make my niche and pick and choose more. It's about believing enough in yourself to convince others. I'm working on that, but not with quite as much energy and enthusiasm as Dan has. The truth is there aren't many people in the world with as much determination and energy as Dan. Dan has a lot of valuable information to share. He has worked hard to get to where he is. He sells dreams...but he includes the roadmap to achieve them. He is an excellent example of how to promote yourself, how to believe in yourself and in the process get others to believe in you as well. He also teaches by example that you had better be able to pull out all the stops to deliver on your promises. He prefers not to emphasize the hardships that like everyone else he has to deal with. His comments are almost always very positive, not because he lives in a fantasy land, but because that's the part of his life he prefers to dwell on and share with the world. I admire his willingness to do that, especially in the light of the fact that he knows he will take some flack over it.
I'm one of many who has benefited by Dan's words and example, I suspect perhaps more than he realizes. A short visit at the Saskatoon airport a couple of years ago gave me a timely and very badly needed confidence boost. Since then I have watched Dan play that same card on a lot of others. I love watching that magic happen and every time I have the opportunity to witness it makes me smile big time! I only wish he had been handing out those pep talks when I first met him in 1990.
In my opinion, a catty one liner is a way bigger waste of bandwidth than an entire page of Dan's words. Even if one of his posts touches only one person, it will go a long way to improving the big picture. A smart cutting remark on the other hand can do the same amount of damage.
-------------------- “Did you ever stop to think, and forget to start again?” -Winnie the Pooh & A.A. Milne
Kelly Thorson Kel-T-Grafix 801 Main St. Holdfast, SK S0G 2H0 ktg@sasktel.net Posts: 5496 | From: Penzance, Saskatchewan | Registered: May 2002
| IP: Logged |
quote:The truth is there aren't many people in the world with as much determination and energy as Dan.
Very true Kelly. Time investment is critical to hone what you desire to achieve. I'm totally guilty as charged when it comes to not applying the time needed to succeed in a given area pertaining to my biz.
I cringe when I hear comments on flat and boring and vinyl. But the cringing is due to my own guilt of not doing more about it. If it didn't apply to me, the comment wouldn't hit so hard and personal, I'd simply laugh it off and know I'm doing something that fuels me already.
There are only so many hours in a day. And what we do with those hours is our choice. You are NOT where you are as a result of someone else. It's a result of you getting there yourself. Like it or not, you have to own where you're at. If you blame others for where you are, you'll never see the light of day.
Make the choice to invest in what's important for you, and you will see a difference! If you only have one day at a time, it's better than mumbling you have no time.
posted
Okay my two cents. Yeah, Dan is a great business man, designer and fabricator. But Stevo has big cajones to speak his mind. And we shouldn't take it all so seriously. Mayby he was joking. Kinda like Orson Wells broadcasting War of the Worlds back in 1938, and we got all shock up for nothing. We're still all kin folk.
-------------------- Signs by Alicia Jennings (Mudflap Girl) Tacoma, WA Since 1987 Have Lipstick, will travel. Posts: 3812 | From: Tacoma, WA. U.S.A. | Registered: Dec 1999
| IP: Logged |
Dan is the Tiger of our Trade.. sometimes he makes my stomach turn just a little.... then Like Kelly, I realize it's just me, jealosy, resentment, all show their ugly face at times, and that's what they are, just that.
Hard way to start the New Year, but Stevo, like Dan has been a very important part of this community, and is still needed, so I'm making no Judgements.
I try to live by my Wife's policy.. she never "Critizice's Condemns, or complains" ok sometimes she complains and Critize's me, but she'll never condemn me.lol
Its like everything else on the Internet, it's full of things some might find offensive, just don't click on it.
Happy New Year
[ January 02, 2008, 07:48 AM: Message edited by: Neil D. Butler ]
-------------------- "Keep Positive"
SIGNS1st. Neil Butler Paradise, NF Posts: 6277 | From: St. John's NF Canada | Registered: Mar 1999
| IP: Logged |
posted
I rarely take the time to post a reply unless I think I have an answer to the poster's question, but I can't let this one go by.
I read as many of Dan's posts as I can, and have never discerned a hint of arrogance. Quite the contrary, I am continually amazed that he (anyone) is willing to spend the time it must take him to share feelings, practices, habits and methods that have contributed to his success in an effort to help contribute to all of ours.
I don't think Dan's success can be attributed to his positive attitude, but it simply could not have occurred without it.
We're very lucky to be able to listen and learn from someone who has achieved the level of success that most of us strive for.
Dan, I'm also turning 54 in a few days (on January 6), so I'm curious to find out if I'm a few days older or younger than you!
[ January 02, 2008, 09:41 AM: Message edited by: Paul Luszcz ]
-------------------- Paul Luszcz Zebra Visuals 27 Water Street Plymouth, MA 02360 508 746-9200 paul@zebravisuals.com Posts: 483 | From: 27 Water Street, Plymouth, MA 02360 | Registered: Jul 2003
| IP: Logged |
posted
Me, I just wish I could get that positive outlook towards the stuff I do. I try, but sometimes its really hard, especially when things dont work out the way I want them too. I know I have control over my work, and how I do it, but sometimes I feel like chucking it all. Dan has a positive personality and a wonderful outlook towards his business and his family. We should all be so lucky to achieve this same outlook. Still trying here in harlan...
-------------------- Maker of fine signs and other creative stuff. Located at 109 N. Cumberland ave. Harlan, Ky. 40831 606-837-0242 Posts: 4172 | From: Ages-Brookside, Ky. Up the Holler... | Registered: Jul 1999
| IP: Logged |
![[Thanks]](graemlins/thanks.gif)
![[Smile]](smile.gif)
![[Group Hug]](graemlins/grouphug.gif)
![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
Printer-friendly view of this topic