Fast, Cheap, Good - pick any two.

Everybody wants FAST service these days, instant access to information, food on demand.

Everybody wants to save money, get things CHEAP, get a good deal and bargain for a better price.

Everybody wants GOOD if not the best quality, nothing shoddy that's going to fail after the second use.

But can you have all three? RARELY.

This old adage - Fast, cheap, good, pick any two -  comes from the design industry but applies in all areas of your life. What do these words mean in relation to your business?

Let's say someone has commissioned you to do a very special artwork - it's a large work and it's for an important client, it will bring you notoriety, fame and fortune, you'll get huge amounts of 'exposure' (your client's words not mine) - GOOD. The client has indicated that the budget is minimal, they can't afford your normal work, only about half what you normally charge, but you've come highly recommended (another boost to your ego) and they'd really love you to do the work - CHEAP.  They also are under a tight deadline - they need it framed and ready to hang in 3 days (it would normally take you 2 weeks) - FAST.

But here's the catch...

You need the money and really can't afford to refuse the job. Where would you compromise?

GOOD - Do you get sucked in by their smooth talk and say to yourself "Well if they really want me and there's a chance I might get something else out of it, I guess I'll have to do it - it might be my big break."

FAST - Can you create what the client wants and deliver in 3 days without giving yourself a heart attack or breakdown from stress in the process? Would you work around the clock, keep painting until your eyes are sore and your hands are numb to finish a painting by their deadline?

CHEAP - Would you work that hard AND then be satisfied with half the normal sale price? Would you still give them the very best product money can buy or would you try and cut corners on the canvas or paints you used, compromise in some way to bring your costs down?

OR WOULD YOU HAVE THE GUTS TO JUST SAY NO?