“It can’t be done.” This is the conclusion that some people come to after giving something a few tries. Others take on the mindset of: “We have not figured out yet how to do it.” When we are working on a hard goal, setbacks and failures are part of what is involved. This can surely be disappointing. But if we are truly inspired by the goal and especially what it … [Read more...] about Hard Work and Failure
failure
The Power of Self-Compassion
Sometimes, we are our own worst enemy. We set high performance standards for ourselves – which is great, but then beat ourselves up when we do not meet them – not so great. Recent research, as reported in Harvard Business Review*, shows that we should instead treat ourselves with “self-compassion.” This includes: *Be kind rather than judgmental with ourselves about … [Read more...] about The Power of Self-Compassion
Be a Flexible Optimist
THE IDEA: While optimism is a very helpful attitude for success, research shows that it needs to tempered at times. The field of positive psychology, with leaders like Dr. Martin Seligman, has demonstrated that an optimistic attitude can lead to higher levels of success for people in a wide variety of activities. In fact, Seligman and others have developed training … [Read more...] about Be a Flexible Optimist
Big Happy Audacious Goals
When I talk with people about setting BIG Almost Impossible Goals, I will sometimes hear “Oh yeah, just like ‘Big Hairy Audacious Goals’ in that book (Built to Last) by Jim Collins & Jerry Porras! BHAGs!” To which I say “Sort of.” The “Hairy” in BHAGs is “scary” – like taking a big risk. Hairy, scary goals might be appropriate sometimes – but research shows that they … [Read more...] about Big Happy Audacious Goals
Improving Your ROF: “Return on Failure”
The cover of the new May issue of Harvard Business Review is titled “How to Really Learn From Failure.” In the article, the authors suggest three disciplines of making sure that you can “Increase Your Return on Failure.”* Do you do an “After Action Review” at the conclusion of every project? This is highly recommended. When you do it, make sure to point out the positive … [Read more...] about Improving Your ROF: “Return on Failure”