By NEAL WAGNER / City Editor

Birmingham-based motivational speaker John Moser shared several tips for success with local businesses March 30 during the Greater Shelby County Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon.

During his seminar, Moser said his goal was to “change, challenge or confirm” the way those in the room thought about their business.

He encouraged the group to think creatively and use imagination when conducting business and looking to the future.

“Work to create and innovate, because if you’re doing things the way you used to do them, you may not be able to afford to be with (the Chamber) next year,” he said. “Because you won’t be in business.”

Businesses are often hesitant to modify practices considered “sacred cows,” Moser said.

“What are you doing to get people to look at things in a different way?” he said. “Some people are scared to change things because they are scared of the consequences.”

Moser said Shelby County is a fast growing area because its residents have not “resigned (themselves) to defeat.”

“Have you resigned to the fact that something will not work before you even try it?” Moser said. “Unfortunately, there are people who could be in this room who have already turned in their resignation.

“They are still working at their jobs, but they have resigned mentally,” Moser said.