What Could Have Been


The Chevrolet Corvair was a compact car manufactured by Chevrolet for model years 1960–1969. It was the only American-designed, mass-produced passenger car to use a rear-mounted, air-cooled engine.

The Corvair's reputation and legacy were impacted by a controversy surrounding its handling: the car was scrutinized in Ralph Nader's 1965 book "Unsafe at Any Speed." Rather than dispute the allegations, GM attempted to discredit Nader himself. This resulted in Nader winning a lawsuit putting a stop to the illegal investigations GM launched trying to dig up dirt on him. This action made people tend to believe Nader more. Sales dropped significantly for the Corvair and the model was discontinued after a 10-year run.

Imagine if GM took the criticisms as an opportunity to improve the Corvair rather than attempt to discredit the accuser. It would have been a win-win for GM and Ralph Nader both.

Now, let's take a good look in the mirror. The Corvair was an imperfect vehicle and we are imperfect people. There are times when a boss, spouse, friend or stranger points out our imperfections and we have a choice -- turn on that person or use it as an opportunity to improve ourselves.

Solomon gives us wise advise regarding corrections that we should heed.

Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid. (Proverbs 12:1)

Whoever heeds life-giving correction will be at home among the wise. (Proverbs 15:31)

Those who disregard discipline despise themselves, but the one who heeds correction gains understanding. (Proverbs 15:32)

Correction is not fun because we have to admit that we are not on the right track. Listening to wise advise helps us gain understanding and improves our reputation as one who is willing to grow as a learner and a leader.

Are you living a "What could have been" life or are you allowing yourself to grow through correction and discipline? Learn from the Corvair rather than repeat GM's mistake and you won't be rusting away in someone's backyard but continue to find usefulness and purpose in life.

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