Here is a problem many of my clients hold in their mind. You may as well. The problem could be with getting tactical work done while not losing sight of the strategic. The problem could be with managing up. The problem could be breaking things down. The problem could be anything in work and life. Here’s the root, however, for most of ’em.
The root is in perspective. Most humans do not see either their problem or themselves properly. Most see themselves as some kinda “victim” and unable to marshall up the strength to break free from their struggle. They see their weaknesses with clarity and mostly miss their strengths. And, most see the problem as something personal, pervasive, and permanent. In other words it’s their fault, it’s everywhere, and it’s NOT going away. Ever.
This is a root reason why so many get stuck and stop trying. Do you see it?
The rememdy is to rinse your problem until it’s very specific and concrete. Break it down, so to speak. Writing is really helpful here. Once the problem is very specific, think like a virtuous CEO and make one decision to attack it. Victims wait. Chiefs choose to act.
Last weeks final practice taught me that whether you’ve the brain of a nutcase artist, or a looney literalist, the only way to train either brain is to change two perspectives. We do not see ourselves as strong as we are. And, we think our problems are personal, pervasive, and permanent. We see ourselves as less and our problems as more. We get stuck in our thinking. Very little dreaming is done when we’re stuck.
Not unlike Peter, and not unlike Will, we are all in need of some outside counsel to clearly see ourselves and our problems with 20/20 clarity.
Who tells you the truth?
Whose strength can you count on?
Who sees you more clearly than you see yourself?
Who has seen your problem before?
Who do you trust?
Tell me more, my friend.
Tell me more…
BUILT TO LEAD 
If failure occurs in an organization or in the household it, more often than not, is a result of unnurtured relationships. In a world dominated by technology we have collectively succumbed to the convenience of speed and efficiency even in how we communicate; at the expense of meaningful face-to-face conversations. Our lives fail or succeed one conversation at a time, and it is these conversations that become the foundation for sustaining purposeful relationships. An example might be helpful. My daughter’s preferred method of communication is text messaging. The world I grew up in had neighbors spilling into the streets after work to discuss politics, kids, community, and the latest issues at the plant. Nothing in the world prepared me for trying to hold a meaningful conversation wirelessly. As a result, I don’t. I certainly want my daughter, and those that are dearest and most important in my life to understand that my being present in their lives means that I be physically present. It was Ernest Hemingway that stated, “How did you go bankrupt? Gradually, then suddenly.” His comments could easily apply to why corporations, and marriages, fail.
The truth is that most of us prefer not to come out from behind ourselves to interrogate reality. Instead, we take the path of least resistance, the most convenient, and the one that will keep us well within our comfort zone. Afterall, it takes courage to question reality and meeting rooms are littered with the debris and remains of the courageous. Who, in their right mind, would desire that when it is much easier to feign agreement with a corporate nod or sink into obscurity by remaining silent.
If we can keep the conversations going and interrogate reality then we, in all our connections and involvements, can continue to learn, tackle our toughest challenges, and enrich our relationships.
It is my hope that this adds to the dialogue.
Robert Chenault, MS Leadership
Brilliant Robert. Thanks for your “and…”