The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results. Knowing this, why do we think we can get ahead tomorrow with yesterday's thought processes, assumptions and behavior?
Each day is a brand new day; a day in which you have the opportunity to correct what didn't go so well yesterday. Today, be more savvy; act more wisely to succeed more.
You are smart enough to know that the number one thing you can do to succeed at anything in life is to first take care of 'you!' So why don't we take better care?
Below are popular 'lack of self care' or 'lack of self awareness' deterrents to success which I hear from my clients. If any sound familiar, today's the day to act.
Physical: You know that the following statements won't get you where you want to be in life, yet still say them:
- "This is a really big week for me; I'll wait for the weekend to exercise."
- "The day got away from me. I didn't even take time to eat, let alone drink any water."
- "Sleep is overrated. I'll catch up after this project is done."
You need to be physically capable of excelling, or you won't.
Physical Appearance: This is a fun one and so easy to change. We all have seen the woman in the grocery store who hasn't changed a thing in the past ten years - same hair, clothing, makeup. Then there is the fellow whose five-year-old pants have grown an inch or two too short as his waist grew proportionately. Could this be you? What does this tell you about these people? Certainly not that they are current, aware, and enthusiastically embracing changing times.
Mental: We do so many things to ourselves mentally each day that it fills thousands of psychology and leadership books. One main mental deterrent to your success is assumptions -- assuming you know what another is thinking without asking; assuming you're doing it right without requesting feedback; assuming you can think the same way you did yesterday and still get ahead today. Slow down, become aware of your assumptions, ask more questions and broaden your perspectives of today.
Spirit: However you look at it, you have a 'spirit' -- a way about you that others notice. It comes from a place deep inside of you and may be sparked from something greater than you. If I mention a carefree spirit; a spirit of confidence, joy, frustration or anger, who comes to mind? How do they demonstrate this spirit? For most of us it's an essence, something that's hard to describe, just 'you.' You change your energy levels and emotions throughout the day, yet your spirit is ever present whether you are aware of it or not. If you are unsure, ask those closest to you who will be honest. Then ask yourself, is this the spirit I want to project? If not, change it.
You are too smart to think that yesterday's way of thinking or behaving will cut it in this new decade. Your colleagues and competitors know this. If you don't change things they will and you'll be left behind.
This week look at one thing that you can change to enhance your effectiveness.
