We live in a culture that since the New Deal years has developed into an entitlement society. Rugged individualism is being threatened by collectivism and a dependency on government programs. Thankfully some believe and apply the old school, traditional values that made our country prosperous. These principles are are still alive and well.

Especially over the last ten years, we’ve been hearing a lot of gloom and doom from the media. No doubt we have some daunting challenges as a nation but I for one am not making excuses or depending on someone else to create and maintain my life-style.

The fact is, you and I can create our own success environment regardless of the circumstances. Timing and circumstances are never perfect for anything whether we’re getting married, having children or starting a new business. But we can take responsibility and make good things happen even in the midst of adversity.

I know it’s still a month and a half away from the new year, but let’s get out there in 2011 and just “Do it.” I’ll bet you thought NIKE was the first to use that term.  Michael Jordan wasn’t the first one to say it either.  According the NIKE, it was agency co-founder Dan Wieden that coined the now-famous slogan “Just Do It” for a 1988 Nike ad campaign.

In 1987, Art Williams, one of the pillars of the direct sales, network marketing industry gave a riveting speech, entitled “Do it.“  Williams just might be the originator of the term. What do you think? A friend of mine shared this video with me and I think it’s worth taking ten minutes to watch and listen. There’s a lot more to being successful in business than making money. Things like integrity, honesty and family life matter. I believe Art Williams, just says like it is.

No matter what business or career you’re in, these time tested principles apply. Please take a few minutes out of your busy life to watch, learn and be inspired about your future.