Change and the new year go hand in hand. AutoInc. begins 1997 with a new editor, Ben McNamara, and a new look. These changes will enhance the delivery of news and information to AutoInc. readers.

On a more personal level, January is also time to change old habits, set goals and make resolutions for improvement. And what about excuses for not doing these? The dictionary definition of excuse is, "To try to free of blame; seek to exonerate; to try to minimize or pardon."

Is your excuse box full? What's your excuse collection? "No time. I'm not qualified. It costs too much. Let me think it over." Excuses are used because of the fear of doing it wrong or not perfect enough. Excuses perpetuate limited vision and saying "no" to life's opportunities. We think there's a critic out there. There is no critic. There is no right or wrong. Success or failure can be determined by these five words: I don't have the time!

What we give attention to in life increases and multiplies.

Everyone has the same amount of time in the day. It's true that every time we say "yes," we must then say "no" to something else. The trick is to learn when to say yes. Often we cling to routine because "we've always done it that way." Wouldn't the dog that spends his time chasing a truck discover the activity was a waste of time if he actually caught the truck? How many trucks are you chasing without giving thought to the results?

We feel we don't have time to have daily, weekly or monthly staff meetings. Then we discover how much more productive our whole business is because of regular staff meetings. We feel we don't have time to be more active in local, state or national associations. The positive, enlightening experiences I have gained from 18 years of being a volunteer far outweigh the time involved, and that's the general consensus of those with whom I have served.

What we often ask ourselves when an opportunity presents itself is, "Who am I to do that?" When we give of our creativity, we become more creative. When we serve others and do our best, we're promoting ourselves from within. You are right for the part! Do it! There will be time!

Now, if you'll excuse me, I have more work to do.

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