Time to Throw in the Towel?

Article contributed by Scott Koepf:

There are hundreds of sayings and clichés that were created through sports, but many have unclear origins.

“Throw in the towel,” however, comes directly from the boxing ring and signifies when a boxer cannot make it out for the next round.

Interesting that a towel—something that can bring comfort by wiping away sweat and blood—becomes the item used to signal defeat.

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There are various times in which every travel agent may need to make the difficult decision to throw in the towel—which seems like the ideal time to launch into a motivational moment by referencing the movie “Rocky.” In the original film, Sylvester Stallone's character shows extraordinary courage by going the distance without throwing in the towel, becoming a hero due to his unwillingness to quit.

We must remember, however, that Rocky went through a grueling workout regimen, and nonetheless was beaten to a pulp and lost the match.

When it comes to running your business, like Rocky, you should prepare yourself through rigorous education, practice and by determining your differentiation. You should also expect to be beaten up a bit as you build your business.

I hope that, just as Rocky did, you will continue to stumble back into the ring over and over. Eventually, all of your preparation will make you and your business a winner.

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Sometimes, however, throwing in the towel is exactly what you should do.

For instance, if a customer is beating you up by sucking your brain dry of information with no intention of booking or is squeezing you on price until you are face down squirming on the floor, then throw in the towel!

You can be a lover rather than a fighter, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t stand up for yourself and be ready at all times for a tough match. While most customer interactions will be fun and productive, you will invariably find yourself in the ring at various points in your career.

Be ready, be confident and prepare your counterpunches. But if you find yourself getting beat up, save yourself and your business before the bell rings.