On Sunday, my husband and I did something really fun we “played” an updated version of “Name That Tune” via Itunes. Our living room was filled with classic songs from DeBarge, LL Cool J, EPMD, Super Cat, Nirvana, The Jets, Art of Noise, and other greats like Maze, and Teena Marie…you get the picture.

As we laughed and joked about times that have come and gone, it was interesting to see how many things had gone the way of the “Land of The Lost”.

Yes, I believe in seasons, and I know that things do come and go, but I began to think about how many of those things seemed to slip away before their time and why? It could be poor management, and for some, I am sure it was, but I wonder how many people failed because they didn’t have a plan or because their plan wasn’t a good one.

“Chance” will only get you so far, if you don’t take the time to stop, plan and get the expertise and support you need, you are putting your future in jeopardy. It is sad to think of all the doors you had open to you, only to find yourself back in the same old place because your decisions were not sound, or because you didn’t get the kind of counsel you needed to move into the RIGHT direction. The singers we heard were talented, but they didn’t have good management, or good support. Perhaps, they had yes men around them who liked the opportunities that were afforded to them, but they didn’t think long term, so they didn’t shake the boat. When I think about the artist who are still around, they were the people who diversified, tried new things, and landed in new and more profitable places. Talent will always exist, the ability to cultivate the talent and turn it into something long term, now that is the real trick. You have been given a gift, one that could open many doors, and take you to amazing places. The question is what will you do with the talent you have been given? Where will you allow your talent to take you? Will you be able to stay where your talent takes you, or will your character and decisions send you right back where you started?

Your success is contingent upon your choices, your decision making process, your experience, and your support. Be intentional about making choices that work not just today, but tomorrow, as well. When you make mistakes because you will choose to learn from them. Remember what is important, and govern yourself accordingly. What will matter the most are the things that will live long after you are gone, like the way people thought of you and the things that you did for others. All of us, won’t make it to the National Hall of Fame, but all of us have the ability to make a difference in someone else’s life and that is the one of the best gifts we can give to ourselves and to others.