Today is the Mexican celebration, Cinco de Mayo. People all over the world will spend the night eating, drinking and partying. But it’s more than just an excuse to have a Margarita. Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s pride in their victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1962.
Following the Mexican-American War, Napoleon III wanted France to establish a presence in Mexico, dubbed the Second Mexican Empire. As France moved into to Puebla with their 6,000-member army, the much smaller 2,000-member Mexican army defeated France on May 5, 1962. Although France later returned with an even larger army and consequently defeated Mexico, this was so significant because it showed that being smaller and less equipped than the competition did not hinder their chance of winning.
When you face obstacles in your business, do you throw in the towel because you already think the competition will dominate you?
How did Mexico beat France in the Battle of Puebla?
- Mexico did not dominate France not because of their size; France had 6,000 men to Mexico’s 2,000.
- Mexico didn’t beat France because they were better trained. Many of Mexico’s 2,000 man army were indigenous people with no training.
- Mexico dominated France in the battle because they had determination.
They may have won the battle, but they didn’t win the war. But in life and in business, success is comprised of winning little battles. Don’t throw in the towel when you face an obstacle you believe is too big. Break it down into smaller tasks that are more manageable.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by a challenging goal, talk to your business coach about how you too can win the battle!