My AHA Moment

Many of my friends are shocked that I’m dog sitting this week. I have never had a dog- through my childhood or through raising my daughter, never owned a dog. It’s odd because many of my closest friends are major dog lovers and they somehow have decided that I’m not dog ownership material. Since I moved to Noe Valley and live around the stroller set- the dog usually trails along while they walk. Or sometimes the dog is in the stroller.

So what is it about me that discourages most dog owners to have full confidence in my ability to be responsible for caring for a dog? Do they think I will harm the dog? Do something human to the dog- like put a bad toupee on them? Or dress them in a sweater and leggings? Afterall, I’m a good friend, resonsible parent, business owner, physically fit, financially solid so what’s the deal? Why don’t I rank?

That’s the conversation I was having this morning with Tesha, the black lab I’ve been watching this week. She seems pretty happy and satisfied with me- no complaints so far. Feeling like I’m exceeding her expectations actually and even wildest dog dreams. We exchange silent conversations and she reminded me that some of the biggest business advances came after people said it couldn’t be done and one of the most successful salespeople she knows defies any stereotype of a good rep.

My AHA moment came a few blocks into our walk together this morning- there’s a sense of accomplishment in doing what others say can’t be done. So next time someone says “i don’t think it’s a good idea” or “we tried it before and it never worked” or “that will never fly” or “I don’t think so” you might want to consider responding by saying “watch this.”