I take my dog Sky for a walk every morning at 6:00, but my walk today was different. A man in work clothes approached and asked if I’d be willing to answer a short survey about my dog’s eating habits. I agreed, and as we spoke, he explained that he was testing a new business idea.
He had already tried the “obvious” route of sending the survey out on WhatsApp and social media, but found that no one would click the link, worried that it might be a virus. His digital-first plan had hit a wall of user mistrust.
So, instead of giving up, he adapted. He started waking up even earlier, before his regular job, to go out and meet dog owners face-to-face. That moment stuck with me. This is what real motivation looks like: showing up, adapting when Plan A doesn’t work, and being willing to sacrifice for your goal.
It was a powerful reminder that determination isn't just a concept; it's an action. As we pursue our own ambitious goals, I hope we all carry that same grit and willingness to connect with people in the real world to solve the challenges we face.