Early this morning, as I looked out my window, I saw a Ferris Wheel that caught my eye. The blue lights illuminated the big attraction. Wanting to learn about its origins, I did some research on Chat GPT about its origins. The lesson I learned illustrated a concept that we teach in our Straight-A Guide—a lesson about timing, decision-making, and long-term success.
I discovered the story of George Washington Gale Ferris Jr. He made the right decision—he created an engineering marvel, an invention that revolutionized amusement parks—but at the wrong time. He invested everything he had into building the original Ferris Wheel for the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair, but despite its success, legal battles and financial woes left him bankrupt. He died at just 37 years old, having changed the world yet personally reaped none of the rewards.
His story is a powerful reminder: the right decision at the wrong time is still the wrong decision.
Why Timing Matters
In life, especially during adversity, we often feel an urge to make bold moves—believing that if our decision is right, success will follow. But as Ferris’ story teaches us, timing, preparation, and execution are just as important as the decision itself.
Many people in prison or facing challenges make similar mistakes. They make positive choices—seeking education, rebuilding relationships, or launching a new venture—but they fail to align those choices with the right timing and preparation.
While pursuing success, we’ve got to consider all factors, including timing. If we don’t set the right foundation today, we make decisions that may hurt us in the long term, as Ferris discovered.
How to Align Decisions with the Right Timing
If you want to avoid making the right decision at the wrong time, follow these key steps:
1. Prepare Before You Execute
- George Ferris had the right idea but lacked financial security and legal protection. Before making a big move, ask yourself: Do I have the right foundation in place?
- If your goal is to start a business, first learn the industry, build skills, and develop financial stability.
- If you want to repair relationships, start by demonstrating consistent growth and responsibility before reaching out.
2. Assess the Risks and Consequences
- A good idea at the wrong time can create setbacks.
- Before making a decision, ask: Will this choice create more opportunities or more obstacles?
- If you’re inside prison, making decisions that could jeopardize early release or reentry success could be devastating—even if they seem like positive steps in the moment.
3. Build Your Network and Support System
- Ferris changed amusement history, but he had few allies to protect his financial interests.
- Before making a big decision, ensure you have mentors, supporters, and advisors to guide you.
- Use platforms like PrisonProfessorsTalent.com to document your progress and connect with like-minded people.
4. Learn from History—And Others Who’ve Walked This Path
- Nelson Mandela didn’t fight against apartheid through impulse; he strategically timed his actions.
- Viktor Frankl survived the Holocaust by focusing on what he could control—his mindset, preparation, and resilience.
- Success leaves clues. Study those who made big moves at the right time and apply their lessons.
Why This Matters for Long-Term Success
Life will always present opportunities. But opportunities alone do not guarantee success—preparation and timing do.
George Ferris revolutionized entertainment, but he didn’t secure his legacy because he moved forward without the right safeguards. If he had delayed his decision just enough to build financial stability and legal protections, he might have been remembered as a wealthy innovator instead of a bankrupt visionary.
The same lesson applies to anyone striving for a better future. Success isn’t just about doing the right thing—it’s about doing the right thing at the right time.
Take Action Today
- Evaluate your next big decision. Are you truly prepared, or do you need more groundwork?
- Create a strategy. Before taking a leap, outline the steps necessary to ensure long-term success.
- Find a mentor or support system. Learn from others who have made similar choices—and succeeded.
- Memorialize your progress. Use PrisonProfessorsTalent.com to track your growth and create a clear record of your efforts.
By taking control of when you act, not just what you do, you set yourself up for real, lasting success.
Self-Directed Question:
What’s one major decision I am considering right now, and how can I ensure the timing is right before moving forward?
Summary for Social Media: The right decision at the wrong time is the wrong decision. Learn how to align action with timing for true success.
