written by “Jake Mannino”

In the fast-paced world of sales and business, it’s easy to get caught up in the numbers. We set ambitious targets, work tirelessly to achieve them, and when we fall short, it can feel like we’ve failed. But the truth is, success isn’t just about hitting every target—it’s about the effort, persistence, and growth that come from taking the shot.

The Value of Effort

Every attempt you make, whether successful or not, is a step forward. It’s easy to focus solely on the outcomes, but the real value lies in the effort you put in. Each shot you take, each call you make, and each pitch you deliver builds your skills, sharpens your strategies, and moves you closer to your ultimate goals.

Missed targets can be disheartening, but they also offer valuable lessons. They teach you what works and what doesn’t, helping you refine your approach for the next time. Remember, every missed target is an opportunity to learn, grow, and improve. The effort you invest today lays the foundation for the successes of tomorrow.

Resilience Over Perfection

No one hits every target, and perfection is an unrealistic expectation in any field. What truly sets successful people apart is their resilience—the ability to bounce back after a setback, learn from it, and keep moving forward.

When you miss a target, it’s easy to let self-doubt creep in. But instead of dwelling on the miss, focus on what you can control: your attitude, your effort, and your commitment to keep trying. Resilience is about understanding that missed targets are a natural part of the journey and using them as fuel to propel you forward.

Celebrating the Wins Along the Way

It’s important to celebrate the small victories and recognize the progress you’re making, even if you haven’t hit your main target yet. Each win, no matter how small, is a sign that you’re moving in the right direction.

Maybe you didn’t close as many deals as you wanted this quarter, but did you build stronger relationships with clients? Did you learn a new skill, overcome a challenge, or discover a new strategy that will help you in the future? These are all wins worth celebrating.

Success is a journey, and every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your goals. By celebrating the wins along the way, you keep your motivation high and maintain a positive mindset.

Taking the Shot: What Really Counts

At the end of the day, what really matters is that you took the shot. You showed up, put in the effort, and gave it your best. That willingness to take action, even in the face of uncertainty, is what sets successful people apart.

Missed targets don’t define you—your persistence and determination do. Each shot you take increases your chances of success, and every attempt adds to your experience and knowledge. So, don’t be afraid to miss. Instead, be proud that you’re in the game, taking the shots that others might shy away from.

Keep Taking the Shot

Don’t let missed targets discourage you. They are not the end, but rather part of the journey toward your ultimate success. The important thing is that you’re taking the shot, learning from each attempt, and continuously striving to improve.

In sales, business, and life, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about being persistent. So, keep aiming high, keep putting in the effort, and remember that every shot you take, whether it hits the target or not, brings you one step closer to your goals.

Happy Selling - Jake Mannino