It's amazing what you can find in your own backyard — if you will only look. I remember reading a speech called "Acres of Diamonds" by Russell Conwell. He spoke of not looking elsewhere for opportunity, achievement or fortune because the resources to achieve all good things are present in one's own community.
Conwell introduced his theme with a story about a man who wanted to find diamonds so badly he sold his property and went off to distant lands in search for them. The new owner of his home discovered that a rich diamond mine was located right there on the property. This begs the question — what's in your own backyard?
Many in the financial services business want to find "acres of diamonds" — whether it be the perfect prospecting tool or an endless supply of referrals. If we only take the time to look in our own community and take advantage of all the resources available to us, we will be equipped for success.
