The dark side to starting new things
You have to stay in it to win it.
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Last week I wrote about why I start things. I do it to see what works. The idea is to try something, see if it works, scrap it if it doesn’t, and ramp it up if it does. It’s a good theory and one I still value.
But, the dark side of this approach is a lack of focus. A lack of focus makes me not go as deep or as far into something as I might otherwise go. It keeps me jumping from one thing to the next, to the next, without seeing real results because of my lack of attention and dedication. If I’m brutally honest, my blog (this newsletter) is one such example. I love the idea of being a writer, and I write when the mood strikes, but just as often, I choose to do something else and don’t focus on my writing. And then, as you might expect, I wonder why my readership doesn’t grow.
Fortunately, there is a remedy to a lack of focus. The first step is recognizing it. Check for me. The next step is having someone in your life that will bring you back to focusing on what matters. For some people, that’s a coach; for others it is a spouse or family member. For me, it’s Jeff. I can’t tell you how often I get a crazy idea and text or call Jeff to tell him about it. 99% of the time, his response is, that’s a great idea, but not what you should be focusing on right now. And, that’s just what I need, someone to validate my “great” idea and help me keep my eyes on what really matters.
Trying new things is critical for success. At the same time, sticking with something (focusing) to see it through is just as important. It’s a tension that we have to manage to get to where we want to go.
How about you? Do you lean more towards trying new things or more towards focused execution? Tell me about it.
Great leadership reading from this week.
Solve Your Procrastination Problem by Dividing Your Day Into Quarters - I’m a big fan of time blocking, but I kind of love this idea as well. This may help me stay more energized and on point throughout my day.
12 Creative Ways To Sustain The Energy You Need To Reach Your Goals - In light of the topic of my post today, this seemed fitting.
Four Tips For Communicating Successfully With Remote Teams - Virtual communication is tough; these tips are a great start.
Other great reading from the week
Future Billionaire Ryan Reynolds Is Putting On a Marketing Masterclass Right Now - How did I miss Ryan Reynolds videos until now? They are amazing! Honestly, these are some of the funniest and best-executed marketing videos I’ve ever seen. If you need a laugh today, this is it.
11 unique homes that were built just to annoy people - Some of these are just funny.
The ‘20-5-3’ Rule Prescribes How Much Time You Should Spend Outside - Studies show that we need time outside; it’s just good for us. This article breaks down how much time.
Charlie Munger’s “How to Start Coca Cola in 1884” Thought Experiment - This is a great thought experiment for someone trying to build something.
Podcasts to check out
Tech Talk Y’all - My tech/comedy news podcast.
TogetherLetters - My podcast about the app that I’m helping build to keep people better connected.
Real Pink - I host the national podcast for Susan G. Komen. If you want some inspiration or information about breast cancer, give it a listen.
That’s a wrap!
Did you find anything helpful here? Pay me back by sharing it with someone. Thanks for reading!
Wellness matters. It means self care in eating, exercising, sleeping and cultivating deep and meaningful connections to family, friends, community
The Freedom of Self-Forgetfulness by Tim Keller is one of the best books I have ever read, and the main idea is that we strive to live in the self-forgetful spot between feeling inferior and superior, where we gain freedom from self-centeredness. Feelings of inferiority stem from an unhealthy concept of 'humility' that says that being humble looks like thinking less of yourself. Superiority stems from a puffed-up ego and from pride. The goal is to hit that sweet spot between these where you are free from self deprecation AND self obsession -- and therefore you are able to simply think of yourself less.