Pre Auction Nerves - Do they still get to you?

This is my 34th year in the used machinery business and I still get nervous, or anxious the evening before an auction.  Nervous or anxious is NOT a bad thing.  It reminds me of my youth.  In the olden days, I used to run track.  I get that same nervous excitement now before an auction, that I used to get before a race. In the races, my goal was to win and run faster than I ever had before.  In the auctions, my goal is to get the greatest return possible for my Sellers. I always want to improve on our bid amounts, processes, and service to our buyers. Does this keep me up at night?  Yes, it does.  The night before an auction closing is fitful at best.

But these nerves let me know that I still care.  This business, our sellers, buyers, and my team at Machinesused.com are important to me.  Controlling the nerves has always been the trick.  Do not dwell on the things that could go wrong.  Envision the greatest results ever.  Picture in your mind success.  Have faith in the work that you have put in, and the knowledge you have. Believe in yourself.  Turn anxiety into excitement.

When that doesn't work.  Do something you enjoy to take your mind off of the upcoming event.

Thank you, Captain Ethel (the Dog), for leading me on yet another Kayak adventure.  It works for me.  Happy 6 Months into 2022.  Enjoy your 4th of July Weekend Everyone!

John Lawton, CEA
Machinesused.com
President, AMEA (Association of Machinery & Equipment Appraisers)