According to the associated press, Ryamond Dolin was hitchiking across the country for a book he was writing called Kindness in America when he was randomly shot by a pickup driver — so he said.
Turns out, Dolin confessed to shooting himself as a way to promote his book.
But the story gets even better. Dolin owns a photography business called One Shot Impressions. Do you see a theme here?
The photographic memoir was to focus on random acts of kindness that Dolin experienced during his journey. It is unclear why he felt a gunshot wound will improve the effort.
I am in the business of self improvement and there are a lot of people out there who will offer you formulas for quick fixes and instant fame or fortune. And while this guy Dolin certainly got instant fortune, I think he and these overnight success promoters are wrong about the recipe for success. Success comes from hard work and a commitment. It’s not about the shortcut.
You often hear celebrities talk about their 20-year overnight success. And successful athletes will relate how they have practiced their sport all the time. Success comes from hard work. Period. Or, maybe you could say it comes from Doing it Well.
So, next time you think about a shortcut, like shooting yourself in the arm, consider a different alternative. Put your head down and work. You’ll be amazed at how much less it will hurt.