What's Next For You?

Feeling "stuck" - or like you aren't realizing your potential?

Maybe you need something "pulling" you to your future?  Maybe you need to clarify what you don't want as much as what you do want?

The most successful people have both: 1. Some kind of "north star" that provides a purposeful reason to move in a particular direction in their life and 2. Boundaries that keep them on track. 

For the first part, consider developing a "next goal" that guide your decision about what steps to take each day/week/month to move you in a direction that is best for you.  Otherwise, you end up taking random choices/actions that lead...wherever you end up.  Hint: Wandering is NOT a productive long-term life strategy.

Another thing that helps prevent wandering is the second issue: boundaries. It's been said that "a worthless, dead swamp is just a river with no banks".  Having something to guide your "water" so it is productive and alive is critical.

(Cue wails from naysayers whining "But we don't want to live some boring, pre-determined, robotic life!")

Consider this: It's important to realize that having some kind of plan does NOT mean being restricted to everything being planned.  Life is too unpredictable to expect everything to go according to plan.  The most successful people create a "plan as of now based on what I know about the current circumstances - while being open to any opportunities that pop up that align with my definite dreams/desires" approach.  Having and working the initial plan, but always being aware of Life's surprises/options as they become available on the journey.

This allows you to realize your optimal potential - taking advantage of life's "surprises" when they happen, but in-between those moments, forging ahead towards goals you know you want (resisting those things you know you don't want!)

But it requires you to consider, decide, and take action!

Think about it.  But more importantly, do something about it...today!

Finding and Aligning To Your Purpose

I often get asked what the most important thing I've learned from spending 3 decades at Disney and other Fortune 500 companies.  Here is my answer - and a practical tool you can use toward the end:

Many thoughtlessly say that "Less is more".  This is not true.  More is more.  But that isn't the point.  Because "more" is not always better.  Better is better.  Period.

So, how do you make your life better?  By NOT wasting time on things that don't add value to you.  You've been settling for FAR too long - and with the new year approaching, this is a good time to prepare for your long-overdue breakthrough!

So, where do you begin?  How do you identify what "better" is for your life?

The complication is that Life gets full of distractions when we aren't crystal clear on our purpose and we end up saying "yes" to things that eat up our time and don't fully serve who we really are.

The proven solution is to get more focused on what you (a unique person with a unique purpose) should uniquely be doing to realize the unique reasons you are alive.  The challenge with this (and the reason more people aren't successfully living the life of their dreams) is that it requires the combination of THREE things:

• What are you good at (your "natural" talents)?
• What do you love (your passions that make you happy to lose track of time)?
• What does the world need (and values enough to pay for)?

Take some time to clearly identify these three things.  Discuss with people that know you well and want you to be healthy, happy, and successful. When you can identify where these three areas overlap and take action to focus most/all your time there, I promise, you will see everything in your life get much better.  

Finally, when do you begin?  "Now" is almost ALWAYS the best time to start your breakthrough chapter.

Think about it.  But more importantly, do something about it...today!

Buen Camino!

Are you yearning for an adventure?  How about one that is an internal adventure as well?

There is an experience that has been commonly described as "life changing" by nearly everyone who has attempted it.  It involves about a month of time, a lot of personal effort, and the willingness to take the first step...and a lot of steps afterwards.

The adventure?  The famed El Camino de Santiago.  A 500 mile walking pilgrimage across northern Spain and/or parts of France.  Similar to the Appalachian Trail in the U.S., the Camino de Santiago crosses countless villages, 4 mountain ranges, and expansive stretches of open country that allow for a unique life experience. 

The external adventure is definitely worth the price of admission, but it is the internal adventure that makes the experience life-changing.

Adventurers attempt "El Camino" for many different reasons, but all find that the time spent in deep thought creates a clarity of insight(s) that forever enhances the quality of Life afterwards.

So, how much is THAT worth?

Along the journey, a common phrase is "Buen Camino", (which literally means "good path") is generally received as "good luck and happy travelling".  It also has a deeper meaning - an acknowledgment that you see a person who is searching for "perfection".  This is related to the "pilgrimage" intent.  Becoming your best self - what God intends - is the goal.

How are you "doing" your life?  Are you merely existing and going with whatever happens by default?  Or are you purposefully living your unique life by design?

Whether it is a month-long pilgrimage across a foreign country or simply a series of daily meditative minutes to yourself before you start your day, I hope that you take some time to ponder HOW you want to live your life's journey - so you have a "Buen Camino"!

Think about it.  But more importantly, do something about it...today!

Are You Misspending Your Life?

We are all faced with a particular dilemma each and every day: Not enough resources to accomplish the things we want to do. Every day, we face choices. Each day, we make decisions.

Are you who you always wanted to be - living the life you always wanted to lead? Are you getting the outcomes you hoped for most?

With every tick of the clock, we invest a second of our life that we can never get back. We have limited time, and other resources: Energy (you have to sleep sometime), Money (we always would prefer more), Knowledge (what have you learned lately?), Skills (have you made the effort to master the abilities you need most?)...the list goes on.

Interestingly, there's a similarity among people that have their act together. Almost all have had a significant emotional/life-threatening experience (whether themselves or a loved one) that motivated them to identify what really, deeply, profoundly, personally matters to them in life. These foundational truths become the priorities for every decision they make. Being aligned internally creates the integrity we all see from the outside.

There is no reason to wait for a life-threatening experience! Commit to investing the time and effort to be introspective. Ponder what makes you unique. Consider what you value most in life. These will direct you toward your purpose. Once you have those "north stars" to guide you, you can determine how to maximize (say "yes" to) the activities that create your dreams and minimize (say "no" to) those activities that do not contribute towards your unique purpose.

Don't squander another minute on behaviors that don't get you the life you desire most. You don't get a second chance. And your first/only chance is slipping away every moment you delay...

Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it...today!

Are You Being Unreasonable?

Being "unreasonable" typically is seen as a negative thing. Literally "not being able to be reasoned with" should be seen as a weakness, right? Out of the mainstream? Inappropriate?

So...what about all those leaders who ushered in breakthrough movements? People like the Wright brothers, who invented powered flight - against everyone else's ridicule? Or like Thomas Edison, who dared to insist on electrically-powered light/machines in homes everywhere? Or Steve Jobs? Wasn't it "unreasonable" to try and launch a personal computer that used "real" fonts and was focused on ease of use? (Not to mention challenging the music industry with iPods, or the mobile phone industry with iPhones, or the tablet market with the iPad...)

Is it possible that the only time significant breakthroughs occur is when some FINALLY takes a stand and becomes "unreasonable"?

There's a great quote by George Bernard Shaw: "Reasonable people adapt themselves to the world. Unreasonable people attempt to adapt the world to themselves. All progress, therefore, depends on unreasonable people".

Consider your dreams - the new breakthrough vision of the future (in whatever arena, big or small) and ask "Am I passionate about my idea enough to be seen as "unreasonable" in the minds of all the myopic "keep with the safe way we've always done it" people that surround me?" If not, I challenge you to find an idea that you ARE passionate enough to risk unabashedly launching it into this world. You deserve the legacy you create on purpose - but it requires you bringing something new, different and better to life.

Think about it. But more importantly do something about it...today!

Special Forces Biz Secrets

We've all heard about the Special Forces teams that confront the most important missions our country faces for the ultimate safety and security of our citizens. General William H. McRaven recently outlined the six keys to success of those critical teams when the highest stakes are on the line. They are just as relevant for YOUR business operation.

Simplicity - Complicated rules and regulations only create confusion. Complicated doesn't get implemented consistently and isn't sustainable. Do the difficult work up front to distill your goals, roles, and responsibilities down to their essence.

Security - Teams that are insecure focus on "not losing". They become risk averse. When employees feel safe and secure they open up and begin to develop and grow - becoming more cohesive and stretching their innovation efforts.

Repetition - There's a common saying "practice makes perfect" - this is a lie. The truth is that "practice makes permanent". Not only must you make time to practice (so your efforts become automatic) but you should practice in as realistic a way as possible. Sloppy practice creates sloppy habits - and ultimately, sloppy results.

Surprise - Telegraphing your intent to the competition only allows them to prepare for you - making your efforts more difficult and your results less effective. Consistently aim to change the game. Break new ground and amaze your industry (and your customers) in the process.

Speed - Being first to market is a huge competitive edge. Making the first (well-timed) move allows you to set the terms for engagement. You're then competing on your terms.

Purpose - Having a reason why creates a reason to try (harder, smarter, etc.) A compelling Vision based on worthwhile Values makes the difference between a team going through the motions or passionately driving for world-class excellence. Everyone wants to dedicate their lives for a purpose.

Discuss how your team measures up regarding these issues and consider how you can improve for better results. Create your own elite "Special Forces" team and make a real difference!

Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it...today!

Impression or Impact?

You may have heard the sayings - they all make the same point:

All sizzle but no steak.
All hat and no cattle.
All talk and no action.
All style and no substance.

Question of the day (week/month/year) - Are you making an Impression or an Impact? Isn't it intriguing how some people are busybusybusy trying to create a short-term fake "buzz" when they could invest that same effort into developing a REAL long-lasting impact instead?

Impressing people may generate attention - at least for a little while - but they rarely last more than a season. It's kind of like the difference between celebrities and stars. One of my Disney jobs included working with "Talent" for special events. It's interesting how some people have temporary fame - they are hot for a while, then when it becomes obvious they are not talented (or talented in only one thing that loses favor) - they fade away. They might make a interesting first impression, but there's no depth to keep our attention. So they lose significance.

Creating an impact is about making a difference. Being memorable for more than just getting attention - it is about making something that matters. True stars stay interesting for years. They develop and contribute in ways that continue to add value to the productions they are involved in. Typically, they are more than good looks and a great agent - they are constantly improving their craft, or selecting projects that add value, or just plain give back to others.

Trust me, word gets around. (As it does about each of us.)

Making an impact isn't complicated. Focusing on being "on-purpose" and (daily) building something of value is what gives life more meaning.

And who doesn't, ultimately, want a life that makes a meaningful difference?
Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it..today!

Life/Work Lessons From The Front Line

A colleague recently shared some remarks made by a career soldier:

1. Remember, if the enemy is in range, then you are too.
2. All cover is temporary.
3. Above all, remember your mission.
4. When in battle, soldiers are less focused on winning for the country than fighting for their buddy/team.

These simple statements hold profound truths that apply to our work - and our personal lives.

1. The closer you get to engaging any activity, the chances of danger/failure goes up. Talking about taking action is risk-free because you aren't really doing anything other than talking. Of course, you gain nothing as well. Real living requires stepping forward and confronting the challenge. Remembering that those situations can "bite back" is critical. Choose wisely.

2. When colleagues/friends offer help, they expect it will be for a specific window of time. No one wants to be left hanging or obligated for long-term support when it should only be a temporary situation. To make the best use of their support - and not wear out your welcome - plan, coordinate and execute accordingly.

3. Life and work are full of distractions. It's easy to get focused on the many micro details and lose track of the macro big picture of why we're doing what we're doing. Reminding ourselves of our ultimate purpose/goal is critical in making the most of our time and resources. It's all about priorities.

4. Workers that are part of an organization aren't necessarily loyal to the company - they are more connected with the people they work closely with inside the company. Anyone who wants to create a culture of loyalty must create an environment that is conducive to people engaging each other at the team level.

As you enjoy this holiday weekend, consider the value these insights provide and thank a veteran for keeping us safe/secure enough to be able to focus on life and career.

Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it...today!

"On-stage" or "Off-stage"?

I just got back from speaking at an event with a few hundred people in attendance. All the details were covered. The stage was arranged well. The materials and lighting were set "just right". Seating, programs, music, coordination and timing, the service team's attire...everything in the ballroom looked/sounded great. The event team was excited to create an experience that was memorable.

Well, it was. For the wrong reasons.

Just after lunch, everyone was re-seated and listening to the speaker before me, when the side of the room we all heard...snoring. From the AV technician!

The whole room began to shift around uncomfortably and murmuring/snickering traveled around the ballroom for a loooong 20 seconds until someone walked over to the technician and finally shook him awake.

Guess what ended up being the most memorable moment from THAT conference?

More importantly, what do you think people are saying about the event company? The same event company, by the way, that went to all the effort and care to make sure "everything was perfect" - failed to focus on the team's behavior as a part of what really mattered.

Anything people can sense in any way during your event will either add to or take away from the value they perceive. ANYthing. As we used to say at Disney, if they can see, hear, taste, feel, or smell it, then it is "on-stage" and we should manage it to ensure a great experience. Consider, not just the "things" in the room, but the people as well, and ask "are we sending the message we want to send?" and "How will this impact our customer's experience?"

After all, you want to be remembered for the best reasons, right?

Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it...today!

Let It Go!

As we rush/stagger/grind/step towards the end of the year, many of us reflect on what was and what may be. While I encourage this (not just once a year, but every quarter/month/week - as best you can), it seems that "resolutions" - regardless of when they occur, rarely last. On average, only 15% of those who make New Year's resolutions keep them for at least 30 days. What a shame!

Part of the problem most have with adopting new behaviors is that they are still embedded in the rut of old habits (muscle memory and/or mental hang-ups.) Here's the key that all successful professionals know: Before you can successfully follow a new path, you have to stop walking the old, less-effective path. In other words: what keeps us from adopting effective new habits is INeffective old habits.

Japanese culture has some interesting rituals for the transition between one year and the next. For example, many hold "ending of the year parties" (called "bounenkai" - or "forget the year"), where they ceremoniously cut ties with anything holding them back from growing/improving for the upcoming year. Another tradition is called "osoji", where everyone deep cleans their homes, offices, and schools to literally begin the new year with a "clean slate". While I don't follow these practices, I do appreciate the acknowledging of how we must create closure for one chapter before we can successfully begin a new chapter.

So, as you begin making plans for your next chapter, please consider what you need to STOP doing - or let go of - BEFOREHAND. Once you've confronted that detrimental anchor, then and only then will you be free to sail forward towards whatever exciting new adventure you have in your heart.

One final word of encouragement: If you're not living the life of your dreams, then why not? When are you planning to live your unique purpose? No matter where you are today, the very best time to begin is NOW. Don't wait another day. No more settling. Take the first few steps and you will begin to see an amazing shift in momentum toward the lifestyle you've always wanted.

You will never regret it, I promise. I can guarantee you the inevitable: you'll regret not starting sooner if you wait.

Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it...today!

What Vision Tool Lacks True Vision?

I've been noticing a disturbing trend. It involves people focusing themselves on their future.

Now, I'm all for people being strategic about where they want to go. I'm a huge advocate, in fact. My problem is the way some folks are going about this very important task.

They're creating "Vision Boards".

I'm not even really against Vision Boards (where people cut out and post pictures that represent their vision for their best future as a form of daily inspiration/reminder.) I just have an issue with the way a lot of people (most?) are doing them...because they are severely missing the point and undermining themselves.

Most people cut out photos of homes, cars, vacation spots, jewelry, expensive clothes, etc. - in other words "things". Of course, owning things is not, in and of itself, a bad thing. It's just that "things" are an outcome of being successful - NOT success. Trust me. Having all the "toys" is nice, but despite enjoying them, it is not what makes you successful or happy. Once you get the "things" - what next?

It is much more helpful to develop a Vision that reflects a more noble (unchanging) goal: who you want to BE. The difference you want to make. The impact you'll have on people's lives. Not as easy to find magazine photos of these things, but they are the real, deep-seeded driver that inspires/motivated your efforts in the long run.

Success is really about others. Things are usually about self.

Ironically, your "self" benefits most when you benefit others best.

So, what's your "True North"? Is it compelling you to grow and improve today? Are you moving in the right direction?

Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it...today!

Multiplying Your Impact

I had an interesting conversation this week with a client about how they seem busier than ever, but don't seem to be accomplishing as much as they need to.

A pretty common problem, based on what I've heard and seen lately.

Lots of challenges: high expectations, people are struggling/desperate, competitors are intensifying their efforts to gain/keep market share, tension at work...and at home.

The real problem is that expecting a "one for one" return on your time/effort is no longer a sustainable proposition. More and more resources are available that can multiply efforts, so that is becoming the benchmark.

The solution?

1. Make sure that you are moving in the right direction. [Is it your passion? Does it align with your personal Values? Is it what your customers - whether in your personal or professional life - really, truly want?]

2. Connect with pre-existing, natural networks. [For example: if you sell widgets, identify (or start!) a widget-users association of people who are passionate about widgets. Make the very best widgets possible. Provide value. Invest effort to be an influential authority within that community. Enlist your new fans to participate in connecting the dots between their passion and your product. If you honestly deserve their business, the value of your product/service will spread like wildfire throughout this pre-existing network of passionate members.]

3. Connect with various types of social marketing venues [Even if, like me, your forte is not technical or social networking, you can partner with those who provide this service. Chances are your passionate, loyal customers will handle spreading the word if you simply give them access to you.]

This effort will guarantee that others - whether in person or via social networking, etc. - will multiply your efforts. When your activities align with who you are, your customers, and the most effective forms of connecting all those dots, you (via "they") will multiply your impact.

Think about it. But more importantly - do something about it...today!

What To Do When Things Hit The Fan

Interesting how Life can change in an instant, eh?

Family, friends and colleagues members have had major changes occur recently. One has had several challenging health issues with numerous family members. Another has just gotten married for the first time. Still another is struggling to make sense of several professional opportunities.

Whether good news or bad news, massive change can create an overwhelming situation that can cause us to spin our wheels.

What is the key? It's all rolled up into one of my favorite sayings: "Organize or agonize".

Recently, I was working with a client who was struggling with similar issues - not knowing what to do next and being confused by the swirl of activity around them. In times like this, I like to take a step back and remind myself of a few things that keeps me balanced and focused.

KNOW your purpose.
SOW your talents.
GROW your legacy.

Once you've done the hard work to get clear about your purpose in life, it makes it easy to identify what to say "yes" to and what to say "no" to regarding your time/schedule.

Once you're clear about what your unique talents/skills are, you can make better decisions about leveraging your strengths to better establish your niche.

Once you're clear about the difference you ultimately want to make (based on your purpose and your talents), you can target building your legacy in a comprehensive, fully-integrated way - wasting as little effort as possible.

Just a little something to consider when things get crazy - which, in this hectic life, can be more than once a day.

Think about it. But more importantly, do something about it...today!