Make Your First Run a Double Black Diamond!

By Chuck Sink

I used to think the way to begin a day on the slopes was with a nice intermediate cruising run to warm up and graduate into the more challenging terrain. As an expert (bordering on extreme) skier, I would wonder why I would get out of rhythm when I hit the steep bump (mogul) runs and be disappointed with my performance. It wasn't until my second or third expert run before I regained full confidence in my ability and really enjoyed the steeps, bumps and tree skiing.

Sometime last ski season, without really thinking, I found myself on a "double black diamond" first run of the morning. For you non-skiers and snowboarders, "double black diamond" is the designation for hazardous: experts-only in trail difficulty. At first I was intimidated and thought: I'm not warmed up enough for this! Then I just went for it and skied with flawless rhythm. I had some of the most fun of my life skiing that run and all subsequent runs that day. Even the easy cruisers were more enjoyable and relaxing.

On my next several outings, I tried this new approach to starting the ski day. Now I always make my first run a double black diamond and I'm a better skier and a better businessman as a result.  (Yes, it's me in the photo.)

Please note well: I'm not suggesting that beginner or intermediate skiers ever endanger themselves on an experts-only ski trail. This advice is for more advanced skiers and likewise, experienced businesspeople. I would never suggest that an entry-level office administrator set the strategy agenda and lead a corporate board meeting.

So, why do I make this connection with business? Because doing what is hardest first sets a tone for excellence and emboldens further successful action. In skiing when the legs are fresh and the performance expectation is high, there is no preconceived notion of ease nor fear of difficulty. You attack the trail with vigor, strength and confidence. How does that sound for setting the right tone for business?

Tackle the most difficult task on your plate first thing. Then prioritize subsequent tasks accordingly and you'll have a more productive, fulfilling day as a result. You will accomplish much more than you would by staying in your "comfort zone."

Try this approach with your to-do list and I'll see you on top of the mountain.

A Special Farewell Note

By Scot Villeneuve

If there is one consistent business lesson I have to learn (and relearn) it is that change is inevitable!  When Big Hit Media first began in 2004, we were strictly a digital studio focused on design and animation.  Since then we've grown significantly - like a child going from infancy to 6-years old, sometimes I can hardly believe the growth and change!

This certainly has not been the journey of just one person, but a team of dedicated and talented professionals.  Not the least of whom is Chuck Sink, Executive Vice President of the firm.  Chuck has been pivotal in the rise of Big Hit Media from a small, specialty website design company, to a full-service communications firm.  Chucks salesmanship and marketing expertise have helped to shape the Big Hit Media brand.

In keeping with the unpredictable nature of business, and life, we must say "farewell" to Chuck.  My dear friend and talented colleague will be leaving Big Hit Media as of Friday February 12th.  This split cannot be construed as negative for either party.  Big Hit Media continues to be a vibrant and healthy company, while Chuck pursues his dreams and new goals elsewhere.

I personally have nothing but the highest regard for Chuck - he will always be part of the Big Hit Media family and my family.  I know continued success awaits Chuck in all his future endeavors.