I’m in Tucson, Ariz., for the annual meeting of the Window and Door Manufacturers Association (WDMA) and thought I would share some positive remarks/insights. (CLICK HERE for news coverage of the meeting.)

• John Wesley Miller, a Tucson builder with 55 years of experience, provided a great quote yesterday. I could write my blog only about this and I think it would give people something to ponder all day. “I’ve learned to accept baby steps as success.” What a great statement. Maybe you’re not introducing a new product right now, but what if you change your marketing message, develop a new campaign, take a day to strategize with your staff about new ideas and new ways of doing things? These are all baby steps, but remember a few baby steps add up to multiple successes.

• Nils Petermann from the Alliance to Save Energy reminded attendees yesterday of a simple but effective way to save energy. “Saving energy is the cheapest and quickest way to ensure we have enough energy.” See the bullet above; doing some simple things at your facility (and at home) are baby steps that equal success for your company.

• In a panel discussion yesterday, panelists were asked what they would say if they had five minutes with President Obama. Miler had a great answer. “President Obama, in the soil of the quick fix is the seed of the next problem.”

Again, what a great statement for companies to keep in mind, and it is one that was touched on by several speakers yesterday who, in essence, reminded attendees to not look at the quick fix but focus on taking measures to make sure they are around long-term.

• Lastly, another quote from Miller. (You can tell this is a person who has lots of experience and many insights.) “Each one of us can make a difference. Take time to write or call your congressperson.” Well said.