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Jeff Olson’s The Slight Edge

Dave and I were amazed by the fundamental points that Jeff Olson made in his book The Slight Edge. If you haven’t read it yet or listened to the audio book, we highly recommend it. The audio CDs are great since there is a 20+ minute exclusive with Jeff Olson at the beginning.

Jeff so strongly believes in and has used this slight edge philosophy to create success in all areas of his life. Like us, Jeff has allowed Jim Rohn to be one of his mentors and The Slight Edge is based closely on the philosophies of Jim. One of Jim’s philosophies that Jeff uses is that success occurs over the progression of time. You must plant, cultivate and then harvest to follow the journey to success. In Jeff’s mind, planting and cultivating involve making every decision with your desired result in mind since every decision you make either takes you up the success curve or down the failure curve. You can’t stay in one spot; you are always moving either up or down.

Successful people are willing to do what unsuccessful people are not willing to do and according to Jeff, the things that successful people do are mundane and easy to do. The factor that turns these mundane easy things into success is the progression of time and the resulting compounding of the results. Successful people just keep doing these chosen proven actions over and over again until success comes.

The problem that most people have that are not successful is that the easy mundane decisions and actions are also easy not to do as emphasized by Jeff Olson & Jim Rohn. It is easy not to do these easy things because the results do not happen quickly since there is the old progression of time factor that always comes into play. With no immediate results many people give up when if they continued over time success would come.

There are numerous slight edge decisions that push you up the success curve as well as many slight edge decisions that pull you down the failure curve. The slight edge decision to eat a Big Mac is made because there are no immediate negative health effects. But if that poor slight edge decision is made again and again, over time there will surely be a negative health consequence. As Jeff stresses, we must know that every decision we make matters. Therefore, we must make every decision that will better us and move us closer to success. If we remain consistent in our proper use of The Slight Edge philosophy on a daily basis, we will be will on our journey to success.

  1. chipwils0n
    February 8th, 2010 at 18:20 | #1

    Great thoughts here Dave & Dawn. Its symptomatic of our microwave society that wants to see results in 45 seconds or just move on to the next event. It takes patience and vision to see the end result before it materializes, but most never grasp this. Your commentary remineded my of something from Ben Franklin's Way to Wealth, “By diligence and patience the mouse ate in two the cable”. Cheers, Chip

  2. johnealrouse
    February 8th, 2010 at 20:10 | #2

    Another great post and video Dave & Dawn…you made me slightly hungry for a cheeseburger there….but i will stick to doing the easy thing….and stay healthy…

    Lots of great lessons in this video, it's is also rather easy to stay distracted and to go looking for new and fresh excitement all the time, rather than sticking to the simple and easy things that if done consistently cannot fail over time to get us anywhere we want to be and much further..

    Thanks for the great post,
    Johneal

  3. christinemcivor
    February 9th, 2010 at 09:14 | #3

    I love the “salad – big mac” analogy. Even though we may think it's a small decision, we have no idea how much impact one decision can make.

    Way too many people go for the big mac when starting an online business and get full too fast. Those who choose the salad tend to crave more and more. I love salad!

  4. February 9th, 2010 at 10:33 | #4

    Hey guys,

    Love this book, in fact I have a “Slight Edge” post on my blog as well.

    Many of us have been conditioned to expect instant gratification in all that we do. As a result the immediate rewards that we associate with our actions often seem more important to us than the long term effects. In your Big Mac example it's easy to give in and eat it; it tastes really good and appeases our hunger much more than a salad. When we really consider the long term results though, the salad is a much better choice.

    Great video, I love how you relate it to online marketing!

  5. February 9th, 2010 at 19:56 | #5

    Thanks Christine for the comments. I have to admit, I'm still a Big Mac kind of guy and Dawn's the salad one in the family. I do use the right slight edge for most things in life though. Fortunately, we hardly ever eat out and usually cook pretty healthy at home. Heck, after reading a Tony Robbins book “Awaken the Giant Within” we even cut back a lot on red meat but I do love that occasional Big Mac!

  6. February 9th, 2010 at 19:57 | #6

    Kathy, I read your post and loved it as well. Jeff Olson just brings it all together.

  7. February 10th, 2010 at 02:40 | #7

    Hi Dave and Dawn,

    I've read the slight edge before and listened to the audio. It's amazing how little habits and routines can pay off big time if we just continue to do them daily!

    And… exactly the same with negative habits.

    Look forward to connecting,
    Gavin

  8. February 10th, 2010 at 02:56 | #8

    Thanks Christine for the comments. I have to admit, I'm still a Big Mac kind of guy and Dawn's the salad one in the family. I do use the right slight edge for most things in life though. Fortunately, we hardly ever eat out and usually cook pretty healthy at home. Heck, after reading a Tony Robbins book “Awaken the Giant Within” we even cut back a lot on red meat but I do love that occasional Big Mac!

  9. February 10th, 2010 at 02:57 | #9

    Kathy, I read your post and loved it as well. Jeff Olson just brings it all together.

  10. February 10th, 2010 at 09:40 | #10

    Hi Dave and Dawn,

    I've read the slight edge before and listened to the audio. It's amazing how little habits and routines can pay off big time if we just continue to do them daily!

    And… exactly the same with negative habits.

    Look forward to connecting,
    Gavin

  11. February 12th, 2010 at 02:34 | #11

    I was not familiar with Jeff Olson's book, but after reading your article I am going to listen to his book. Thanks for sharing.

  12. February 14th, 2010 at 18:16 | #12

    Hi Dawn and Dave:
    Great thoughts here. I completely agree. Success is progression, rarely realized overnight. Rather, realized with consistently doing the right things. Great share.

  13. February 15th, 2010 at 17:09 | #13

    Great post! It is so true how most people go through life living only for the moment not really understanding or even thinking about the longer term effects that their current action will have on their life. We must all have a very strong belief in what we are wanting to create in our life. This will keep us on track and help us to make the right decisions in the moment that they happen. Thanks again for sharing this with us.
    Make it a great day!
    God Bless,
    -ed

  14. February 16th, 2010 at 02:32 | #14

    Dave and Dawn,

    It's amazing how the smallest of actions snowball over time. Ted Turner, who has accomplished so much in his life has never worn tie up shoes, because he wanted to save that time to do more worthwhile actions.

    Based on your recommendation I'll have to read the “Slight Edge.” Thanks for the great reminder to make every second count!

  15. February 27th, 2010 at 03:41 | #15

    Sounds like a great book! I just recently learned that taking consistent steps toward your goal (even if small) is so important. I so appreciate the reminder. Awesome insight to begin 2010!

  16. February 28th, 2010 at 15:00 | #16

    I highly recommend this book if you want to make positive change in your life and give your life direction. The little changes add up over time and a year from today you could be living the life of your dreams. Give a copy to your kids.

  17. March 2nd, 2010 at 04:43 | #17

    This wonderful gift book reinforces in words and images the idea that little steps, compounded over time, do make a difference.

  18. March 2nd, 2010 at 09:28 | #18

    I have recently started reading The Slight Edge and was amazed at how subtly and easily we allow success to slip through our fingers by doing nothing towards achieving our goals daily. I love what I’ve learned so far. Thanks for your insight into the big picture of the book.

  19. March 4th, 2010 at 03:52 | #19

    Sounds like a great book! I just recently learned that taking consistent steps toward your goal (even if small) is so important. I so appreciate the reminder. Awesome insight to begin 2010!

  20. March 5th, 2010 at 06:11 | #20

    IN THE PROCESS OF LEARNING HOW TO WALK, you probably spent more time failing than you did succeeding. But did you ever have the thought of quitting? Did you ever tell yourself, “I’m not cut out for walking-guess I’ll crawl for the rest of my life?” No, of course you didn’t. So, why do you do that now?
    .-= affordable health plans´s last blog ..Some inexpensive small business health insurance plans =-.

  21. March 9th, 2010 at 23:54 | #21

    It makes sense. My best friend started cutting over comments made on Formspring. People called her fat and she’s a twig, they said she couldn’t dance and she’s the head of the ballet class.

  22. March 10th, 2010 at 05:32 | #22

    The Slight Edge is a great book for your personal development library. This book will challenge your current thinking and philosophy towards life. This book is about how you can change your life, and how “The Slight Edge” can have an amazing impact over time.
    .-= Kid’s summer camp´s last blog ..Explore the thrill of summer camp =-.

  23. June 16th, 2010 at 16:15 | #23

    Thanks again for another great valuable post! I love to read and you always give good reviews of books.

    This looks like another great book to add to my list of Great Books to Buy along with Outliers

  24. Ldobson
    June 25th, 2010 at 20:59 | #24

    Hi Dave and Dawn,

    Jeff Olson's book “The Slight Edge” is a very powerful book with some very simple little fundamentals that one can apply and have immediate success. It is so very said that the masses choose to watch TV instead of fulfilling their minds with wealth. As Jim Rohn once stated in one of his books: “By the time we work all day, go home, have some dinner and watch a little TV, it is time for bed. There is no time to read, learn and better our situation.” Huhmmmmm . . .They are the ones behind on their rent, mortgage or car payment.

    Miss seeing you . . . and exchanging thoughts! Have a fantastic day!

    Lloyd Dobson :)

  25. July 28th, 2010 at 00:51 | #25

    That is so important to understand that you are either moving toward your goals or away from them there is no standing still. Make every decision with that in mind. Beautiful post thanks.

    Michael

  26. September 23rd, 2010 at 22:15 | #26

    Hi Dave and Dawn,

    I am going to add this book “The Slight Edge” to my reading list which gets longer every day. However, I am dedicated to improving my thinking and my mind so that I can help so many more people create freedom in their lives. You have both demonstrated that you are willing to do what it takes. I think we all forget the Law of the Harvest at times – it takes a season to see our work through.

    Blessings
    Clare

  27. November 6th, 2010 at 21:43 | #27

    Dave and Dawn,
    I especially like the quotes “making every decision with your desired result in mind,” that “success is a progression over time” and that “successful people are willing to do what unsuccessful people are not willing to do” And these are mundane and simple tasks.
    I needed to hear this today because I keep doing such simple tasks but I know they need to be done.
    Erica
    Dr. Erica Goodstone recently posted..Relationship Success – The Noble Eightfold MatrixMy Profile

  28. November 13th, 2010 at 08:01 | #28

    Hi Dave and Dawn,
    One thing I do on a daily basis is listen to positive thinkers, Robin Sharma, Success Magazine CDs, Abraham-Hicks and the best thing that’s happened for me is a better appreciation for myself and my abilities. As a result I became more confident and could do more. And, you are so right, Jeff Olson is right about the compound effect. I’ll have to check out the book because I LOVE reading books like this. Thank you for sharing through a video too! I look forward to our interview! :-)
    Lesly Federici recently posted..What’s in a LeaderMy Profile

  29. August 31st, 2011 at 15:41 | #29

    Hi Dave and Dawn,

    I loved your video on your endorsement for Jeff Olson’s book, The Slight Edge. This video is just what I needed to hear! You accomplished your purpose. I trust any recommendation that you tow make If he based his philosophies on Jim Rohn, then it has to be phenomenal! I love Jim Rohn. He is a legend and is a success mentor for so many people.

    Your straight forward approach is what has always drawn me to your leadership. The Big Mac versus salad analogy makes sense but in life, sometimes we forget that the little decisions add up. I love personal development and adding new resources to my list. I will add “The Slight Edge” to it and I am looking forward to reading it.

    Raena Lynn
    Raena Lynn recently posted..Driving Your Dreams To RealityMy Profile

  30. October 17th, 2011 at 13:20 | #30

    Hey Dave and Dawn, this is my first official week, and I love what you have to say here about The Slight Edge!! Did you also know that there is a community created by his daughter: theslightedgecommunity? let me know if you want the link. Its a lot like facebook, and they won’t allow any spamming. I especially notice, a re-reading or listening to the Slight edge, I get even clearer how decisions that I make affect my over all success in life!
    Lynda Cromar recently posted..In Your MLM Travels For Business And Events Be Prepared Before You Go!My Profile

  31. November 30th, 2011 at 11:36 | #31

    Helli Dave and Dawn,

    I just love you guys! Your video was great and covers so many important things. Dave you are so funny with your examples…They are so true and so real life! Dawn you have such a huge heart and I can tell you care so much about sharing your message.

    I love that you give the example of fast food as something that is easy to do and easy not to do …there are so many choices and decision we have to make troughout the day and it’s great to be reminded of that!

    Thanks guys for your authenticity and for chosing to make this video instead of going to McDonalds for a Big Mac…LOL ~ Nathalie

  32. February 28th, 2012 at 00:26 | #32

    Really some food (pardon the Big Mac pun) for thought here, Dave and Dawn.

    I think one of the troubling issues for me is that I get so caught up in the “doing” … that I seldom have (or take) the time to think clearly about what it is that I’m so busy doing.

    Where will it lead me. Success or failure? Of course, it “seems” like I’m doing success things all the time, but you’ve really made me think here, to be careful that I’m not assuming they are success things. They may be taking me to the Bad place instead!

    Thanks for the really important ideas you’ve brought forth in this post, Dave and Dawn.
    David Merrill recently posted..YouTube Video Strategy | Leverage High Ranking VideoMy Profile

  33. March 29th, 2012 at 19:56 | #33

    I read ‘The Slight Edge’ a couple of years ago, and I was blown away by how the little actions are the ones that make the most massive difference over time. I’ve had times of not being consistent and focused in my behaviors…but I stopped once I recognized that no one would change my life but me.

    I think sometimes that a fear of failure keeps us from moving forward as well. Consistency isn’t easy, though it should be, and the actions, while easy, become so challenging over time. I’m glad I stopped by here today. I needed this reminder; it’s the little, consistent things that count!
    Christi Johnson recently posted..Starting Is Probably The Most Difficult Thing In Home Business Ownership!My Profile

  34. April 19th, 2012 at 15:42 | #34

    Hi Dawn

    Great post and video. I would love to get hold to the audio’s.
    I just love old Jim also to bits. and I love it that some people just give up on the easy
    thing that you need to do.

    Big steps at a time make you give up most of the time but people love to get big money fast, with out do the small and easy things.

    Thanks
    Theuns
    Theuns recently posted..There are no traffic jams on the extra mileMy Profile

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