What Success Means to Me

     I was listening to talk radio this evening and an expert who wrote a book was talking about business and success. What interested me and got me to thinking, was when he spoke about the common thread to all successful business people is PASSION for what they do.  They think about it all day and it’s usually the last thought as they close their eyes at night.  I thought, “That’s me!”

     I love what I do with a passion. It never get’s old!  I love the challenges that I 
experience daily when repairing or building a fretted instrument. I love the store, the repair shop, all my employees and music teachers. I love the location and the town of Los Gatos. And sometimes I don’t really mind the business side of it, too.

     Then I got to thinking a little deeper…What is success?  I think a lot of people believe that you aren't successful if you aren't making a lot of Moola, buckeroos, $$$!  I’m making a living, but I’m certainly not getting rich. Am I successful?  Hmmm…I don’t agree with that thinking. And then I realized WHY I think that I am successful: MY CUSTOMERS!

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  I love my customers. I want…NEED, to give them what I have learned and they need it back. There’s success! These people come from all walks, young, and old, all with a love of music in common. They are all my friends. Many are good friends. Some I see often, even daily, others infrequently. Many are from out of the area and make it a point to stop by when in town. Some send instruments across the country or from around the globe! Some I have never met but know their email and name well. I enjoy meeting people and customers for the first time.

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But, the real joy (and success) that I get from my customers is when they come to pick up the instrument. The one that was dropped or fell over. The Les Paul with the broken headstock. The old Yamaha acoustic with the hole in the side. The Martin D28H with the wicked scratch on the headstock. The worn out frets Strat that just won’t stay in tune. These moments when it comes out of the case and the smile, the joy, the look of amazement as the first chord is played.  THIS is when I realize that I am successful!

I am truly blessed and thankful for you all!

Cheers!
Keith

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