Trash 2 Cash

Remember Blockbuster Video?  Depending on how old someone is they may have to Google it.

I saw a story about the last Blockbuster Video in the world being located in Bend Oregon.  Anyway, this got me thinking. 

While returning a video one day I’m at the counter about to checkout and I notice a huge clear bag of empty VHS cases. 

I asked the person helping me what are you about to do with those.  She said throw them in the trash.  I said do you mind if I take them. 

She said sure. 

I then asked how often do you throw these empty cases out.  She said usually once a week.  I asked do you mind if I come buy and pick them up.

Again, not a problem. 

Here is why I was asking.  I was sending promotional videos to clients using the exact same cases but I was PAYING FOR THEM!  Now I had as many “slightly used video cases” as I needed for nothing. 

When Blockbuster switched over to DVD cases I did the same thing. 

This is an example of turning Trash into Cash!

Here is my BIGGER POINT!  This is not about VHS cases this is about being resourceful. 

Here is a quote by Tony Robbins - It's not the lack of resources, it's your lack of resourcefulness that stops you.

When I first heard him say that I said WOW!

One way to be more resourceful is to look at creating a win win situation and using someone else’s resources. 

In the Blockbuster Video example, I saved them a few minutes and took the empty video cases off their hands.

A lot of people want access to other people’s resources without offering that person something they want.  The secret is finding out who has the resources you need and then find out what they want.

Thank you for attending another episode of Eric’s Escapades.

Have an Amazing Day!

Sincerely,
Eric “Kind of Miss Walking In Blockbuster Video” Anderson
 
P.S. You can sign up for the monthly Q&A session about the business of speaking happening on the evening of January 25th by clicking the link below.
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