If the ax is dull and one does not sharpen the edge,then he must use more strength; but wisdom brings success.Ecclesiastes 10:10I’ve always been a devotee of the great Stephen Covey. He authored the life changing book, “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective” People.I taught his course for two years. Covey’s seventh habit was “Sharpen the Saw.” Akin to the Bible verse above.I don’t solicit new friends (friends not clients). They come to me.

Invariably the issues they face involve a need to sharpen something. Improve a circumstance. A family issue… a business issue… a personal issue.First statement I usually hear, “I can’t figure it out. I’m trying so hard, but can’t get there. What do you thinks going on?”Reply, “It’s time to sharpen the saw.”

Have you ever tried to saw wood or fell a tree with a dull saw? Phew! Trying so hard… takes forever. Ah! Maybe if I sharpen my saw, I can do so much better. Success! But of course.This is a simple metaphor for so much of life. A dull saw, personal challenges… acknowledging our weaknesses are essential ingredients for achieving success.The paradox. Slow down to speed up. What do I mean?

Take the Indianapolis Five Hundred. Cars roaring around the track. But what must they all do? Go into the pits… numerous times. Slow down, refuel, change tires. Driver replenishes him, herself. Back on the track… full, even better speed.You need to take you into the pits periodically too.

Ever think about these things when you talk to yourself? “I’m just worn out? At work? Dealing with a unresolved personal issue? Am I in the right job? I’m constantly frustrated, angry? Need to lose weight…develop a budget.”

On and on… acknowledging when you’re weak is key to achieving success.Know this. The mirror is a terrible accountability partner. Don’t try to do this alone. A wise friend who knows you well. A shrink, a consultant. Above all a great listener. One who cares about you. You need counsel, wisdom to come out of the pits…

Weakness to success is achieved by focusing on, revitalizing strengths. Rarely trying to address weaknesses themselves. Doing so will only leave you with mediocre strengths at best.Strength… will power are essential to succeeding. But the winners I’ve coached over many years all possess the wisdom to see the need to go into the pits periodically, sharpen the saw.