If You Can't Get Out Of It, Get Into It!

Life is FULL of things that we wish we didn't have to deal with. 

The question is: If this (painful) action is truly inevitable, then what can you do to minimize your suffering?

According to the most successful/happiest people, once you have exhausted any creative attempts to resolve the situation, the most logical next step is to simply accept that the uncomfortable experience will be happening.  Once you overcome any denial, there are actually TWO options that put you more in control of the negative situation, and can help make the most of it:

The first is: Initiate the action as soon as possible to get through it quickly.  This approach allows you to get the pain over faster.  Why put off dealing with it?  No sane person enjoys pain, and putting it off only adds more suffering.  The dread of anticipation actually magnifies the pain and prolongs it.  The wiser approach is to "rip off the bandaid" rather than drag it out.  The sooner you start, the sooner you finish.  Plus, you avoid all the painful "angst time" as a bonus!

The second is: Find/create enjoyment in the midst of it.  As bizarre as it sounds, this is actually pragmatic.  Minimizing the damage from a negative experience is a self-preservation effort.  Focusing your attention to any beneficial aspects of the situation - whether it is bittersweet "good for you" value or actual enjoyment of some kind - is better than the alternative.  Once you have learned your lesson, any additional suffering is a waste of time and unnecessary pain.  Again, pragmatic and logical.

The good news is that you can use BOTH tactics in every situation.  But it requires the courage and discipline to boldly take that first step.  Take control.  Be accountable.  Face life head-on - and you will have a better life as a result.

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

Being A Sore...Winner?

No one wants to be a "sore loser" - a term we've all heard since childhood.  It describes a person who is hurt because they lost.

I'm in the midst of a big move - daily lugging heavy boxes (thousands of books!) and other assorted heavy items - and I've been sore every day for the past 3 weeks.  As the muscles throughout my body scream in revolt, something occurred to me:

Have you ever thought of anyone being a "sore winner"? 

Winners achieve as a result of hard work.  Hard work stretches your abilities.  This is why winners who are consistently successful are constantly striving to grow and improve - keeping them on top.

The natural consequence of pushing your capabilities is pain.  It is a pain that most people are not willing to endure.  When you talk with successful people, they will admit that the sacrifices made to achieve their goals hurt, but it was worth it. 

Every winner is sore, you just won't hear them whining about it.  Even when they (temporarily) lose, they understand that it is part of the progression (investment) towards ultimately winning. An investment that requires commitment, courage, and tenacity.  It is these three things that allow a winner to face the inevitable discomfort and gut through what it takes to realize their goals.

So, in the midst of all the challenges you are facing today - are you willing to be a sore...winner?

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

Priority: Plan or People?

No one argues that having a plan is important to the success of any business. As the saying goes: "Plan the work, then work the plan".

But in this world of limited development resources and finite time, it is vital to prioritize our efforts to ensure the very best results. So in the midst of the battle for your attention, which should be the default choice when the line is drawn in the sand?

Develop your Plan or develop your People?

World-class companies have an insight about this dilemma. They've seen how circumstances constantly shift and change - requiring our plans to adjust as we go. Sure, the general direction of our strategy may remain the same, but the fact that we have to evolve the plan in order to stay relevant is an indicator - much of what we plan never happens because of future adjustments. Arguably, the time/energy invested in those parts of the plan that evaporate is wasted. So, the answer is:

Develop your People!

Here's the reason: A team of "robots" waiting to be told what to do when circumstances call for changing the plan is always a losing proposition. If we develop our team so that they can adapt to any situation; they can work together effectively despite the ambiguous circumstances, and create value. Then you have a resource even more valuable (because they execute) than a well-intentioned plan. In fact, they can be trained to actually develop plans and make relevant/in-the-moment decisions as they encounter the unpredictable forces of your hyper-competetive workplace.

Plans are vital - however People trump the Plan every day of the week. So do both - but place the priority on your people. An A-Team will always find a way to achieve the extraordinary.

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

Are You Free Or Fantastic?

Have you noticed that, these days, your customers are more demanding? The recent economic challenges have caused us all to be more thoughtful and demanding when it comes to spending our hard-earned dollars. How do you compete when, more and more, people expect something for nothing?

As wonderful as the Internet can be, it is also the source of easy access to the lowest price option. In fact, "the low, low price of FREE" is becoming a common goal in the race towards commoditization. Bottom line: When there's nothing special/different/better about your product or service, why should anyone pay more for it than the cheapest source?

The only time it makes good business sense to offer something for free (or even at no profit) is if there is strategic value. Either 1. To entice your customer so they do business with you and you can sell them more items where you make your (ultimate) profit; or 2. to use it as a tool to gain exposure/awareness for future sales.

Otherwise, the "strategy of free" is, ultimately, a default strategy for going out of business.

The only other strategy is to be "fantastic". Designing your product or service so customers experience a "WOW" means you can charge (and they will pay) a premium. (At Disney, we used to call this "pixie dust" - you can do it too!) Not only do you get a buzz of publicity (happy customers tell everybody!), but you earn profit that actually keeps your business in business.

Wouldn't you prefer that scenario?

What does the "strategy of fantastic" require? Simply adding value at every touch point of your customer's experience. Exceed their expectation (by being different/better) every step of the way and they will come back - AND tell all their friends/family to do business with you too!

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

Becoming A "Clutch" Leader

After watching several intense sports match ups this week, I noticed that something interesting happens at critical moments in each game: Leaders - both on the field and off - make decisions (or not) and take action (or not) that ultimately determines the outcome. Oftentimes, in the battle of two opposing teams, one leader will "choke" when everything is at stake.

What creates success in these high-pressure scenarios? What brings leaders through "in the clutch"?

When I was in charge of leadership initiatives at Disney, it was interesting to see what set the most effective leaders apart from the average leaders. A recent study done for the US military reveals some of the same insights that my team discovered when exploring what made the most significant difference:

• Focus - Are you focused on the details that strategically relevant to this particular situation? Can you ignore any superfluous activity while leading through the challenge?
• Discipline - Are you able to consistently follow up and generate accountability? Are you a legitimate role model with integrity?
• Adaptability - Are you able to learn from the past, yet let go of everything that doesn't serve you or your team in this unique situation? Is there another (different) right answer?
• Being Present - Are you able to "fly by the seat of your pants" and make decisions during the "real time" process of gathering problem solving information?
• Fear/Desire - Are you appropriately motivated (either by fear or desire) enough to passionately move forward - despite the circumstances?

How do you measure up when it comes to these traits? What life experiences can you get involved in (now!) that can help you better develop these traits?

Your future teams - and your leadership career - will reflect your actions today regarding your leadership during difficult times. Do you want to be known as the leader who comes through in the clutch? Then...

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

When In The Midst Of The Storm

Recently, it seems like nearly every client, colleague, and friend has been overwhelmed by unexpected circumstances. Sometimes the challenge has been out of left field, sometimes the challenge has been more intense or longer-lasting than expected...but either way, they are struggling to manage.

Sometimes, Life has a way of ganging up on you, eh?

This past month has been a challenge for me as well. A "perfect storm" of previous commitments, professional challenges, and personal set-backs. Sometimes it can knock the wind out of you - leave you reeling for a moment. A setback like this can be painful, but it can be an attention-getter when you desperately need one.

When things in our environment are so dynamic, it is dangerous to be inflexible in anything except your values and The Truth. The saying that "good always triumphs over evil" is only true in the longest term. Short term, the ugly truth is that evil sometimes wins...temporarily. The key is getting through the temporary times.

Here is what I've found to guide me (and other clients/colleagues/friends) through these temporary trials: The "A List"...

1. Accept the pain/circumstances: Denial only prolongs the process. It IS happening - and time (nor any connected circumstance) isn't stopping. Grow up and face it with courage NOW or a messy "domino effect" will make it worse. (Yes, it ALWAYS makes it worse...)

2. Assess the root cause(s): Objectively review your circumstances and YOURSELF to get at the root cause of the problem. Look for trends/patterns. What is REALLY causing the pain right now? Could it be the natural consequences of YOUR actions? (or LACK of action?)

3. Adapt to the new situation/challenge: What was is no longer what is. Let go of the past and embrace a new now to establish today's starting place to make progress towards your goals. No, your goals don't have to change, necessarily (if they are still worthy), just your approach to achieve them. Maybe there's ANOTHER right answer that will get you there?

4. Action your way through towards your goals: Thinking/talking about your intentions get you NOWHERE. As overwhelming as it may seem, you can take a step NOW...even a baby step is progress. Baby steps, multiplied by consistent effort often turns to momentum and larger steps.

If you've experienced a painful set-back, you have my condolences. Take a moment to grieve (Accept) and then commit to the rest of the process. There IS hope...even in the midst of the pain and confusion. Focus on your goals and the process and soon you will be out of the maelstrom.

Take a deep breath, and begin. Now.

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

Ready, Able, and...Willing?

Just got through following up with a client's "Action Team", who are responsible for initiating a company-wide improvement initiative. In the past, the organization has fallen victim to "Program of the Month" problems and they've been working hard at getting things ready to roll out.

Here's the rub: they are starting to experience "project creep" - where deadlines begin to be missed and things start taking longer than anticipated.

I hate "project creep". There's rarely a good excuse for it. Reasons, yes - but no excuse.

In confronting the status of their process, we explored numerous issues. It turns out that this initiative is so critical (they need results now and they can't afford to attempt this again) that they are clinging to the dreaded "analysis paralysis" - they continue to gather data and opinions and ANYthing that will hone their confidence.

Another way to look at this is that they are doing ANYthing to keep from having to actually execute the plan, followed by being held accountable for the results. The reality is that additional information will only take them insignificantly small steps closer to the elusive "absolute certainty".

This is a common problem - especially in difficult times. It's human nature to resist accountability - because we forget that being held accountable for great results is so incredibly wonderful!

Bottom line: the team realized that 1. they were actually ready to execute, 2. they were able to execute, 3. they were not, deep down WILLING to execute (because of their fears).

The good news is that we were able to get to common ground and they are moving forward again according to schedule. (Have I mentioned that I love coming in ahead of schedule, under budget, and better than expected?)

I have found that most delays occur because people are not willing to act. They lack the confidence that they are really ready/able. I encourage you to take that leap. You have all the tools you need to navigate whatever "hiccups" are bound to arise. (Hiccups occur no matter how much preparation is done beforehand. Starting before it's all "perfect" just allows you to actually realize it earlier/better.)

Think about it...but more importantly, act on it - today!

Sick of "Woulda, Shoulda, Coulda"?

Let's set some things on the table:

Yes, the economy is horrible.
Yes, the resources are more scarce.
Yes, the customer is demanding more for less.
Yes, the competition is hungrier.

Yes, yes, yes...I get all that too. What's real is real. I have no problem accepting the truth and dealing with reality - in fact, I'm about as pragmatic as they come.

What I do have a problem with is the attitude of "there's nothing we can do" or "we just have to wait it out".

The people who mistakenly take this position are usually the ones that are frozen in fear - thinking that they only have to continue "business as usual" until things stabilize and then they will pick up where they left off in their business dealings. They are also the people who expect that their industry/competition/customers will go back to the way things were.

They are so very wrong.

Yes, the economy moves up and down in somewhat predictable cycles. That will never change. However, another predictable thing that doesn't change is the cycles of changes in business dynamics and social expectations.

Does anyone think that their competition is really standing still? Does anyone really expect customers to settle for less than value for their dollar?

People expect more now. Customers and employees are rethinking their decisions. Those businesses that deliver - in time to capture these seeking customers/employees - will succeed. Those who do not, will slowly fade away. The irony is: they will wonder what happened and somehow blame the economy or some external force - rather than their lack of willingness to act on those critical behaviors that would make a difference.

If a company wasn't delivering before and are suffering now because of that, why continue "business as usual"? That is a sure path to destruction! The companies that were consistently delivering quality and service (value) are still doing fine as long as they are adapting to their changing customers priorities. Unless organizations 1. identify their shortcomings, 2. identify plans/tools that will fix those shortcomings, and 3. take action (now!) to execute those ideas, then it all will become empty talk.

Results never come from talk - they only come from action.

Think about it...but more importantly, act on it...today!

Timeless Growth Secrets

I had an interesting conversation today with the owner of a prominent orange grove here in Florida. During our conversation, he mentioned that he had grown up with plants - first, at a plant nursery, then at a fruit grove, before establishing a national produce corporation.

He mentioned that, especially in this time of economic difficulty, he has found that there are timeless truths to growing - whether it be a plant or a business.

"When the environment is challenging, you find that people's reaction to the challenge is what determines the health or the plant and/or the business. You can save a lot of money in the short term by not watering/fertilizing a plant when times are tough, but the natural consequences are almost always that it costs more to nurse it back to health. In fruit trees you can easily lose an entire season of fruit production - or even lose the tree altogether. The best long-term growth approach is to stay focused on the health of the plant/people/relationships. That is really the only way to ensure a healthy rebound when things get better."

These days, we should all rethink "growth" to not just include "getting bigger", but to be about growing our profit margins. Investing in our employees and helping them to better engage both customers and business improvements, we can grow in every way that matters - and naturally leads to survival...and success!

Isn't it interesting how nature can lead the way to success in our professional lives?

Think about it...but more importantly, act in it...today!

The Top 50 Most Innovative Companies!

My friends at Fast Company magazine just released their list of 50 most innovative companies, which included some interesting insights we can all benefit from.

The first is that 33 of last year's winners did NOT make it onto this year's list. The insight? Innovation (and the relating benefits) dies if it is not consistently nurtured/supported. Innovation can command price premiums and leverage market share, but only if you "prime the pump" first with a culture that supports it. Use it or lose it. Ouch.

Secondly, the consistent success stories (like our benchmarks Disney, Google, Apple, Ideo, etc.) focus on the same proven strategies and tactics that translate to consistent external brand and business results - even in this hyper-challenging economic time.

Taking the right action when the competition is cowering and waiting for some magic dust to save them, achieves more than a head start. It generates employee engagement, inspired heroism, and efficiencies inside the organization, and differentiation, customer loyalty, and brand buzz outside the organization...all of which captures the ever-elusive competitive edge professionals everywhere want but miss because they refuse to focus on what really works.

It's sad to watch companies stagnate and wither because they are more committed to their policies and procedures than to their employee or customer experiences. By resolving to be innovative and connecting with their customers - both the external customers and the internal (employees) customers - any business remains relevant, dynamic, and growing. According to world-class benchmark companies, this is an exciting and rewarding position to be in.

We all make choices every day. The question is: will it result in "rewards" or in "pain"?

In other words: Are you going to use it, or lose it?

Think about it...but more importantly, act on it...today!

What It Takes To Survive In Crisis Situations

It's hard not to notice the scores of businesses failing right now. Many claim that they are the "victims" of this nasty economic crisis. The hard truth is, they are only the victims of how they dealt with the circumstances. Let's really look at the facts:

Why won't all businesses in their industry fail? After all, they're dealing with the same circumstances. Actually, there's a simple answer:

There are two primary aspects of our operational abilities: Preparedness (Training; Having processes in place; etc.) and Resources (Money; Physical assets; People; etc.) Here's the secret that true world-class businesses have discovered: Your current status regarding these two issues are based on how you think!

This is NOT some "name it, claim it/ask the Universe for it" kind of garbage...uh, I mean, theory. When leaders think training is important, they invest in that and are better prepared. When they think innovative solutions best come from front line employees, they engage them in opportunities to adapt/improve results. You get the picture. Their actions begin with their thoughts and beliefs.

Because circumstances constantly change, the key is thinking in a way (focusing on proven, real-life solutions) that gets consistent, world-class results - even in difficult times.

It's too bad many professionals miss that truth. It means the difference between thriving and merely surviving...and sometimes (unfortunately) between surviving, and not.

Don't be that statistic. Even now, it's not too late to invest in the proven approach that will completely change your situation for the better. Really. Don't settle for less when you can tap into proven solutions that will lead you to achieving your potential.

Think about it...but more importantly, act on it...today!

Employee Engagement = Organizational Improvement

I just finished up a consulting project that centered on improving the client organization's business performance. In this particular situation, they had several problems: low customer loyalty (repeat/referral), inefficient processes, high turnover. The client expected some expensive and drawn-out intervention to fix it. If they had gone with a typical consultant, they likely would have been correct.

But they hired my team ("the anti-consultants") ...and they were thrilled to be wrong.

In this particular instance, well-placed effort on engaging their employees created a ripple effect that positively impacted everything else - especially in challenging times. It works like this:

Connect with (really engage/care for) the employee =
1. higher morale/teamwork/productivity (more ownership, buy-in, and passion)
2. more efficiencies (employees are the closest to the operations and know how to improve it)
3. higher satisfaction/loyalty (employees are closest to the customer and can create better relationships - which, coincidentally, have been modeled by leadership as part of the engagement effort.)

Isn't it wonderful to see a business achieve it's potential? They especially appreciate that these dramatic improvements are occurring while the economic environment is killing off the weak businesses, injuring the average businesses, and rewarding the businesses that invest wisely in developing their people.

It's never too late to improve...right up until the "death rattle".

What are YOU doing to engage your employees/save your business during this difficult time?

Think about it...but more importantly, act on it...today!

Anti-Consultants Unite!

Can someone PLEASE come up with a new term for an ethical and skilled professional who is hired as a freelancer to provide expert opinion about how to genuinely improve a business operation and get legitimate results for the client?

Most consultants have made "consultant" a bad word. It really ticks me off to see what the plethora of inexperienced, unskilled, ignorant, and selfish out of work people who throw together a website and business cards have done to ruin an important and needed industry. It is pathetic and shameful!

The Small World Alliance team is currently working on a project and discovered that our client has hired a string of "consultants" previously, and each one bungled things so badly that the organization was in danger of going under. These "consultants" came in, dispensed poor advise, and then abandoned them while they struggled to implement the badly-designed plan.

Unfortunately, my team seems to find ourselves "cleaning up" after these corporate rejects fail to meet their lofty promises. Why doesn't someone invent some kind of corporate stun gun to jolt these "consultants" to their senses? I would pay dearly (and take a LOT of personal satisfaction) to start using it on these people.

Let's unite and begin to hold these people accountable. Spread the word about poor performance and broken promises! Let's all commit to due diligence before investing in someone to come in - make sure they have the background, experience, and the passion to deliver real results, especially in these difficult times!

And please, PLEASE...call me first (the "anti-consultant")...not AFTER these "consultants" have made things worse. You - and your entire organization - deserves better.

Think about it...but more importantly, act on it...today!

Getting Through the Tough Times

With all this economic turmoil, the typical response of the average person is to freeze. For ordinary companies, freezing spending is an easy short-term "solution", but it has significant long-term ramification. Cutting back on investing in what creates the results, only serves to undermine the ultimate results themselves.

That's why extraordinary companies do NOT freeze. They may cut back on certain non-strategic expenditures (which makes sense), but in order to get better results in difficult times, they actually focus MORE on investing in what generates those results: their people and their customer experience.

No wonder that, when the dust settles, these legendary companies have extended their lead in the marketplace.

Certainly something to consider...only if you want to be extraordinary, of course.

Think about it...but more importantly, act upon it...today!