I had the opportunity to lead a few sessions with some awesome leaders this past week.
So many brilliant minds and thoughts! It was so energizing!
We discussed the challenges they believe prevent team performance. The lists leaders came up with were robust, to say the least.
As leaders shared their challenges, I asked them“Do you have direct control over this?”
We marked each challenges with a YES or NO.
Most of the challenges they experience are outside of their control.
When we focus on something we cannot control as a reason for our results, we feel powerless.
Then we made a list of all the efforts, activities, etc… they DO have control over, as it relates to team performance.
Such an invigorating conversation.
When we focus on what we can control, we feel empowered and powerful.
There will always be uncontrollables in our work (and in our lives). Wishing they didn’t exist and then using them as a reason to justify our failures, just causes ongoing, negative spin.
If you or your team are struggling with challenges, do this exercise for yourself or as a team and see what you and your team will agree to as a renewed focus.
- List all of the challenges that impact your performance.
- Put an X next to the ones you can’t control, a CHECK next to the ones you can control.
- List all of the activities, etc. you do have control over.
- Identify what you will focus on moving forward to ensure your success, rather than feeding the problems that will distract you from you goal.
We’re still at the beginning of a new, shiny New Year! Change the way your team focuses daily attention and secure yourselves some amazing results!
Kris
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