THE OPPORTUNIST: What to Do When Opportunity Knocks

I recently came across an interesting, comical and thought-provoking statement:

“Dear Optimist, Pessimist and Realist: While you guys were arguing about the glass of water, I drank it.” – Signed, The Opportunist

I’ve always regarded the glass as half full – and for all intensive purposes, I’m an optimist. But when it comes to the intersection of positive outlooks, the gloomiest point of views or those who view things as they are – the Opportunist is a step ahead.

Why? Because, those who take action unequivocally reap the benefit (if one exists) while others spend time debating the state (of a thing). The same is true of business. Once opportunity knocks, the opportunist (in all of us) should brazenly show up – front row and center.

Sure! The entrepreneur, who takes advantage of an opportunity to achieve an end, is sometimes regarded as selfish and single-minded. But really, who’s culpable? Entrepreneurship isn’t a spectator sport. Failure to execute (take action) when an opportunity presents itself, is likely the worst outcome for any of us.

Yet, what would a wise opportunist do?

When Opportunity Knocks, Follow These Steps

Is every opportunity right for your business? No.

Opportunities are like buses, there’s always another one coming. Don’t become so preoccupied with the proposition that you lose sight of the big picture.

Ask yourself, “Is this bus (opportunity) taking me down the right road (to an expected end)?” Or does it provide a transfer – a connection that will get me to my next destination? As a successful entrepreneur you can’t afford to haphazardly jump on every bandwagon that offers up an empty seat.

Therefore, the next time opportunity knocks, before you say “Yes” or emphatically exclaim “No,” measure up the prospect to this 3 point test:

1. Does the opportunity align with my personal values?

This is the first question you should ask yourself before you strike a lucrative deal or form a strategic partnership. Most likely your personal values will reflect heavily on your business values. And if you haven’t decided what those are yet, take a step back and gain clarity on who you are and what you want. Be definitively clear – because if you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything.