Excelling without your best

SPORTS HEADLINE-USA HAS LARGEST 1ST ROUND LEAD IN RYDER CUP SINCE 1979
Yesterday marked the beginning of the Ryder Cup, an annual golf match featuring the best players from the United States vs. Europe's best golfers in a team competition. But one thing is missing from this year's event. THE best player in the golf universe, Tiger Woods. Woods has been out of golf recovering from knee surgery following his heroic win at the US Open this summer.

So with the US Team missing their far and away best player you'd just assume that they'd struggle to find their footing, maybe be in some tighter matches than previous years and overall have a harder time competing, right? Well to the contrary, they ran out to a huge lead after the 1st round, their largest since 1979. "We're in a good place," said US Captain Paul Azinger. "Who would have thought?" With 6 rookies on the team this year, who would have thought indeed!

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT-
So what do you do when conditions in your life are less than ideal? Do you find it hard to overcome obstacles in life when the odds seem insurmountable? Do you view your challenges and obstacles with fear and regret or do you relish the challenge and attack things head on? Believe in yourself, your abilities and your destiny and power through the barriers in your path.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT-
Your top salesperson just left the company. Your best representative is on vacation as the 'big wigs' are coming to town and you need to have a good showing. Sales goals and accountability to management or your shareholders doesn't go away just because you are without your top performers. Look within to uncover new superstars. There are winners with untapped potential within your organization simply waiting for the chance. Giving them a chance, encouraging and supporting them could be the keys to your victory.

FINANCIAL DEVELOPMENT-
It's really easy to focus on what's missing in our lives financially. I sure wish I'd have bought some Google stock a few years back, anyone with me? The lottery numbers sure would come in handy right about now, wouldn't they? When faced with tough times, look within and truly assess your resources. Determine what tools you can use to get you thru the rough patch until you are able to be at 100% again. Making wise decisions on savings, budgeting and credit will keep you on the green and away from the rough!

GAMEPLAN-
There are times when we are all at less than our best. Life happens to all of us at one time or another. Whether it's a personal loss, professional struggles or financial turmoil, each one of us has to overcome and persevere at times when we wish conditions were more favorable. Dr. Robert Schuller once said, 'Tough times never last. Tough people do.' Face your challenges head on, don't focus on what you don't have, focusing on maximizing what you do and embrace your victory!