Before You Call it Quits…

Whether it is a decision to pursue a degree, try a completely different job, or start selling handbags at your local farmers market, there will be moments when you think to yourself, “my idea is stupid, and I’m a douche bag.” It comes with the territory of putting yourself out there, and it is in the very moment that these thoughts come on that most people curl back into their shells.

Well, I’m going to try and discourage you from such a retreat by reviewing two ideas that are easily much more ridiculous than anything you could possibly be trying to market, and yet they have been wildly successful.

1. Manheim Steamroller. Chip Davis, and his merry band of old men with pony tails make what he describes as “18th century rock n’ roll.” Well, yeah, of course they do. And somehow they’ve managed to sell 20 million albums. If they haven’t already completely destroyed Christmas for you, then get ready because at some point they will.

This, my friends, is the brass Manheim Steamroller tree ornament, and as you probably guessed, it’s sold out, likely gobbled up by their legions of fans (which are, by the way, invisible to the self-respecting eye). So, when critical thoughts begin to creep in and you start to question your product or idea, think of Chip and the boys. Everyone has an audience, even you, and if Manheim can sell out stadiums, we all have hope. If that doesn’t deter you from backing down, continue to my next example.

2. Flesh Truck Nuts. I probably don’t need to say more, but I will. Apparently, somebody decided one day that just having a truck was no longer sufficient. The truck needed some balls, and the balls needed to be realistic. Although now, several retailers have branched out and started offering Biker Balls and Chrome Plated Balls. This way, no one feels excluded, and you can choose the balls that best capture who you are and what you stand for.

Now, revisit your own situation with the knowledge that empires have been built upon much less. And while it’s not wise to completely abandon your shell, perhaps you can stick your neck out a bit longer and see what you find. Just steer clear of trucks…and their balls.

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