Yes, I did grow up with parents who were Frank Sinatra fans, so, yes, his song immediately comes to mind when I think of doing something my way.
But the lyrics completely fit, when we talk about having our own businesses and needing to do it our own way. The lyrics are below for you to enjoy, as it fits many of us more than I expected!
Truly, let’s think about that. Nowadays, we are inundated with webinars and e-courses and new tools and videos and “use my method and it will help you make $XXX” type messages. And, I am just as guilty of paying attention to it all much too often, I have to admit. Whether it’s a “shiny new object” syndrome, or FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), I so get it. But ultimately, we have our own business because we want it ours. And NO ONE is this world is just like you. So trying to imitate others or trying to do it completely someone else’s way, ultimately, I don’t think, works as well as figuring out what is best for us. So absolutely pay attention to what is out there, as continuing to do it the same way year after year after year isn’t the best thing either. But figure out how to adapt it to you or discard it.
Why? Because we can’t be fake or doing it someone else’s way for long. Truly. I think that being genuine and authentic to you, and doing your business in a way that fits your personality, skill-set, motivations, and that will give you the most satisfaction, is the way for long-term success. Imitation doesn’t get you there. So learn from others, absolutely, but figure out how to adapt it to you or discard it.
That’s my advice to my coaching clients – and I help them sort through it all – and it’s also my advice to myself!
Do it your way, whatever that looks like for you!
Frank Sinatra – My Way Lyrics
And now, the end is near;
And so I face the final curtain.
My friend, I’ll say it clear,
I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain.
I’ve lived a life that’s full.
I’ve traveled each and every highway;
And more, much more than this,
I did it my way.
Regrets, I’ve had a few;
But then again, too few to mention.
I did what I had to do
And saw it through without exemption.
I planned each charted course;
Each careful step along the byway,
And more, much more than this,
I did it my way.
Yes, there were times, I’m sure you knew
When I bit off more than I could chew.
But through it all, when there was doubt,
I ate it up and spit it out.
I faced it all and I stood tall;
And did it my way.
I’ve loved, I’ve laughed and cried.
I’ve had my fill; my share of losing.
And now, as tears subside,
I find it all so amusing.
To think I did all that;
And may I say – not in a shy way,
“Oh no, oh no not me,
I did it my way”.
For what is a man, what has he got?
If not himself, then he has naught.
To say the things he truly feels;
And not the words of one who kneels.
The record shows I took the blows –
And did it my way!
Yes, it was my way.
