Dude, You Can Do This!

What an inspiring story unfolded in the world of tennis this week, as 19-year-old Sloane Stephens knocked off fellow American Serena Williams to win the Australian Open. Apparently, Sloane woke up earlier that morning, pondered the challenge ahead of her and said, “Look, Dude, You Can Do This”.

Just think what each of us could accomplish if we looked down the barrel of our own challenges and came away with that same kind of attitude.

So I’m dedicating my blog this week to Sloane Stephens… and inaugurating my first “Look Dude You Can Do This” List:

First, the American economy is showing the flickering flames of renewed strength. If the U.S. Congress truly cares about the American people and job creation, DUDE, stop screwing around with debt ceilings and fiscal cliffs and focus on ensuring that businesses will have the confidence they need to start hiring and investing in their companies.

Second, Maryland’s Maintenance of Effort statute forces jurisdictions like Montgomery County to cut budgets (re eliminate jobs and important services to the public) when education spending rises. In good times, the rising tide of revenues and support for schools is a win for everyone. In bad times, like we have now, it arbitrarily hurts vital programs by forcing the government to make cuts. So Governor O’Malley, DUDE, work with the legislature to temporarily suspend Maintenance of Effort so that Montgomery County can have the authority to make smart budget decisions.

Lastly, what DUDE list would you like to see? Who out there needs to face reality, buckle down and get it done? Shoot me an email at mreineke@mymcmedia and let me know. In the meantime, look to your own life and how the DUDE approach can help you.

I’m giving it a try today!