10 percent of the people are going to love what you do. They are your fans, your loyal customers, and your believers. Sometimes they are your mom, but not always.
10 percent of the people are going to hate what you do. They are your “emenies,” your competitors, your haters. They are Nellie Olson in a business suit.
But…
80 percent of the people are willing to enter into an intelligent discourse whether or not they like you. In fact, they haven’t made up their minds. They have an open mind and are willing to listen to what you have to say.
This is where the magic happens.
In politics, it’s where you can engage in ideas rather than rhetoric.
In relationships, it’s where the give and take of delightful compromise takes place.
In matters of faith, it’s where sincere pilgrims agree to disagree and can engage in loving iron-sharpens-iron debate.
In marketing, it’s where the clear message can be heard and evaluated.
Learn to appreciate the first 10 percent. Learn to ignore the other 10 percent.
But…
Engage the 80 percent. This is where you can make the most difference.
Pumpkin pie is the best breakfast the morning after the Thanksgiving feast day. With coffee, eaten straight out of the pie pan. Your illustration of 10/10/80 will stick with me in a better way than pie. 🙂
Thank you! I’m so glad. I so agree about the pie. And cranberry sauce on a turkey sandwich!