Art Williams' Speech: Do It

Introduction

• Delivered at the 1987 National Religious Broadcaster Convention.
• Art Williams shares his philosophy on winning in business.
• Expresses nervousness about speaking to influential figures in the audience.

Current State of Business in America

• Business is in a crisis situation (trade deficit).
• Emphasizes the importance of understanding the market needs.

Keys to Winning in Business

1. Find a Need
   • Identify consumer needs in the market.
   • Must have someone to sell products/services to.
2. Unique Value Proposition
   • Differentiate from competitors for major success.
3. Mental Toughness
   • Winning Edge: mental toughness is critical; small differences can lead to winning or losing.

Challenges in Corporate America

• Critique of business education in universities.
  • Belief that many professors are out of touch with real-world business needs.
  • Concern that theories are emphasized over practical application.
• The importance of the individual’s internal qualities:
  • Integrity, character, and people skills are crucial to success.

Key Points to Develop the Winning Edge

1. Get Excited
   • 90% of winning is maintaining excitement and enthusiasm.
   • A winner remains excited for the long term.
2. Dream Big
   • The importance of having dreams and aspirations.
3. Stand for Something
   • Avoid being a fence sitter; convictions are important for building trust.
4. Be Prepared for Controversy
   • Being non-controversial equals mediocrity; striving for excellence will attract criticism.
5. Commitment
   • Commitment is necessary for overcoming challenges; compares business commitment to marriage commitments.
6. Treat People Well
   • Importance of building relationships with employees; management is about caring and support.
7. Establish Priorities
   • Personal and spiritual life must come before business; balance leads to holistic success.
8. Competitiveness
   • Desire and will to win are essential traits of successful individuals.
9. Action Orientation
   • Differentiate between winners and losers: winners take action consistently.
10. Leadership
    • Successful endeavors are led by strong leadership; somber approach often causes inaction.

Conclusion

• Emphasizes the simplicity of winning: "just do it."
• Encourages resilience and determination in achieving personal and business goals.
• Mentions everyone can talk about success; action is what truly matters.
• Final takeaway: Winners do it until the job gets done and then celebrate their achievements.