The sure way to miss success is to miss the opportunity.
-Victor Chasles
Say what you will about Ellen DeGeneres’ and her emotional pleas for the return of Iggy, the now famous Brussels Griffon terrier mix that was taken from the family of her hair dresser for a violation of the adoption agreement.
I’m a dog person. Having two dogs myself (see my Brussels Griffon / Chitzu mix, ‘Bubba’ inset), I understand the emotional attachments people form with their pets. For most people I know, they aren’t a form of property. They’re family.
I’m not going to debate who’s right and who’s wrong here. I definitely have my opinions and I’m sure you do too.
But, I will say from a business perspective — the owners of Mutts and Moms agency made a horrible business decision. One that will likely spell the end of their non-profit agency - at least in its current form.
Here’s the thing - they had a once in a lifetime opportunity presented to them and they chose to stubbornly stick to their guns and take on a very popular public figure.
Now, I’m not saying roll over and I’m not saying sell out.
You can still keep your integrity and seize opportunities.
Couldn’t they have said:
Hey - we have a unique opportunity for some stellar PR here. The agreement was broken and technically we have the right to take the puppy back. But why don’t you have the family contact us and we’ll interview them and make sure they’re prepared to provide a suitable home etc.
We don’t have to do this but our main interest is seeing that the animal is in a safe and loving home. They’ll of course have to pay our adoption fee again for this service. But maybe not, if you’d be willing to do a segment on your show about animal adoption agencies and the service we provide. Maybe this is an opportunity to educate people, help save more animals, and perhaps receive some donations for our organization.
As it is, NO ONE comes out of this a winner.
So my encouragement this week is to recognize each challenge you face as an opportunity. Something may seem like a ‘problem’ — but how can you step back and make something good out of it?
Good luck and have a great week!
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