There’s a commonly held belief that “what got you here won’t get you there”, heck, there’s even a book with that title! I’m not usually the controversial type but in this case I think there’s something seriously wrong with this statement as it stands or rather how it is often interpreted.
The idea that you have to do something differently to move forwards isn’t the problem. It’s the implication that you have to let go of what you already have in order to achieve what you want that I wholeheartedly disagree with. I’m all about letting go and showing up but let go of the right things; the things that hold you back, that limit you. What got you here is exactly what will get you where you want to go; you just need the odd reframe and a few minor tweaks.
Whatever your driver you will need to change something about what you’ve been doing to get a different result. As Einstein said “No problem can be solved with the same thinking that created it.” So let’s get specific, what needs to change?
In the early part of the year, there is always a lot of focus on how to make this ‘my best year yet’. Maybe you’re looking to stop working for someone else and start living your life by becoming self employed? You could already be a business owner, manager or team leader who feels like you could achieve more if only you could get the most out of yourself and your staff? Either way, the number one thing, the biggest limiting factor to your success is how well you use the skills you already have!
It’s well established that most people use around 20% of their skills 80% of the time. It’s a bit like only ever using 20% of your computer or phone battery power – it doesn’t exactly last long or really serve you. So what’s the solution? How do you use more of the skills you have, to achieve what you want?
Deciding to stop working for someone else and start living your life for you is a big decision. The world of the entrepreneur, the self employed can look shiny, exciting and attractive. In fact it’s all too easy to leave one job and instead of creating freedom, you create an even more full time job! Of course there are all sorts of benefits to doing your own thing, but know what you’re getting into before you start.
If you want to get the most out of your team it’s time to put the job descriptions aside and focus on the people you employ. It’s too easy to get caught up in what you employed someone to do. You write a job description, shortlist, interview and employ someone who on paper can do that job. But what about the rest of the person?
A great leader is one who inspires their team. To inspire others you have to let go and show up as you and let your team do the same. Inspire your team and they will look after your customers. It’s a win:win way of being.
In the end it all comes down to getting clear on a few things. Two of the biggest challenges people face are knowing what they really want and appreciating what they already have. As a race humans are often fantastic at seeing the potential, value, skills, opportunities and possibilities in other people or indeed in other organisations. When it comes to seeing those same things in ourselves or our teams we struggle. It’s like we can’t see past the end of our noses, can’t see the wood for the trees. In truth that’s why I’m in business! To provide the mirrors, the clarity, the focus, the perspective, the inspiration and the structure that helps people be the leaders in their lives and businesses. To help people let go and show up.
So how will you make this your best year in life and business ever … what do you want and need to let go of? How will you show up? Get in touch, I’d love to know!
