The Three Bricklayers Message

William “Bud” Hart, of Haverhill, shares “Success Principles”—ideas for living a greater, better and more accomplished life, and building habits that stick. He also coaches clients to incorporate strategies for boosting their mental and physical performance during everyday living.

William “Bud” Hart, of Haverhill, shares “Success Principles”—ideas for living a greater, better and more accomplished life, and building habits that stick. He also coaches clients to incorporate strategies for boosting their mental and physical performance during everyday living.

With just about every one of my articles that my wife reads she comments, “It’s too long.” I have to admit that some of what I have written lately has been a bit lengthy. To make up for that I am going to be short and to the point today.

You may have heard the tale of “The Three Bricklayers” (author unknown). It’s a story that has been around for many years. The reason it continues to be told is the powerful and succinct message that the story conveys. It goes like this. Once there were three bricklayers. Each one of them was asked what they were doing. The first man answered gruffly, “I’m laying bricks.” The second man replied, “I’m putting up a wall.” But the third man said enthusiastically and with pride, “I’m building a cathedral.” We have to guess how the story turns out. You can decide and write an ending for each bricklayer yourself

What is clear is that this short narrative reveals two secrets of success. The first is attitude. Showing enthusiasm and pride in what you are doing always stands out. You alone control this. You choose your attitude each and every day. And the choice you make goes a long way in determining the daily reality you experience.

The story also speaks to visualizing the bigger picture. Being able to see an end result, rather than just an everyday task galvanizes focus, which helps to eliminate obstacles and provides motivation to excel. When we focus on the bigger picture it inspires determination, dedication and solutions to challenges.

So, when you feel like you are spinning your wheels and you think you are not getting closer and possibly will never reach what you want to achieve, remember the story of “The Three Bricklayers,” look at your attitude and visualize your end result.

Powerful message in just few short paragraphs, I think even my wife will agree.

William “Bud” Hart is a certified “Mindset” Coach, Accountability Partner and Business Consultant. Visit Hart Group, www.hartgroupma.com for more on coaching.