It's unbelievable how many people will spend money on most frivolous of things, but decide to close their wallet on those things that can most help them further their career.

I really believe that's why so many people are enamored with search engines. Because of rampant hype, they mistakenly see it as a way to promote their business to millions of people, without having to spend any money--not realizing search engines just don't work for vast majority of businesses!

And I can't even count number of e-mails I get every day from people asking me for free advice. Do I give it to them? Sometimes, I do. It really depends on how busy I am at that particular moment and how they approach me.

There's an old saying, "it takes money to make money!" I personally spend hundreds of dollars a year on business and marketing books, magazines, e-books, etc. I consider money I spend a well-placed investment in myself.

Do I always get my money's worth from books that I buy? It depends on your point of view. I've been in marketing for over two decades, so I've learned a lot over years. And most of time, I usually only pick up one or two little nuggets I can use, from many books that I read.

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I Would Give Anything To … By Kathleen Gage

A couple days ago I was listening to a CD by one of most successful speakers in industry. He has been around for many years and is considered one of greats. He is also considered to be somewhat off beaten path. As much as he is admired and respected by many, he is judged by just as many. The segment I found most intriguing was one about how others often say to him, “I would give anything to be a successful speaker and author just like you.”

His response is, “No you wouldn’t. What you want is end result, but you’re probably not willing to do what it takes to achieve level of success I have achieved.” Arrogant? Maybe. Harsh? Perhaps. Truthful? Most definitely.

Anyone who has achieved a relatively high level of success in their industry has probably had same statement directed to them. “I would give anything to be a successful ________ just like you.”

Truth be told, achieving a level of success others will want to emulate is something most people are not willing to make necessary sacrifices for. Sure, they want end result, but are they willing to step out from crowd and do what it takes to achieve their dream? Are they willing to go through inevitable ups and downs?

Over years I’ve had opportunity to work with some pretty incredible people. Folks who have achieved more than most could only dream of. Individuals who others will look at and think, “I would be willing to do anything to achieve that level of success.”