Last week, Mrs. C and I took a quick trip to Hamilton, ON, to visit family for the weekend. It’s only about an hour away, but almost immediately when we got there, I realized I had to turn back. Almost.
You see, I’m wired to go, work, hustle. Not always ideal, but I’m trying to manage it. I also enjoy the work I do, so I don’t mind putting in the hours.
If you’re familiar with Gallup/Clifton Strengths, Focus and Achiever are in my top five. This means I can easily block out the ‘noise’ and get things done.
The house could be burning down .. And my response would be “Fire, chill out, I have things to get done first. Then I’ll deal with you!” 🔥
Are you the same? Or am I the only weirdo? Don’t answer that! 😁.
As I packed my bags in the morning, I made sure to grab my laptop, webcam, notebook – I had coaching calls lined up, work to do, and content development to finish. It was going to be a productive weekend while spending time with family.
We got to Hamilton, I opened the car door, and then, “Oh s**t! I forgot my laptop.”
It sounds silly now, but at the time, I was stressed and anxious. How was I going to get my work done? I dropped off my wife and actually started driving back to get it. Yup. Bonkers!
🕰️ About 10 minutes into the drive, I stopped and thought, “This is ridiculous. I can surely go one weekend without my laptop.”
So, I turned back, shifted my plans, took some calls over the phone, accomplished a few things and kept it a computer-free weekend. Even got in a power nap. How ’bout that!
I share this to be vulnerable because I know I’m not alone.
It’s also a reminder: when coaching high performers, accountability or follow-through isn’t the issue. They’re wired to go! The real challenge is slowing down, pausing, and enjoying the journey.
One of the questions I ask when I’m coaching a higher performer, senior leader or someone that’s wired to go – “What’s one thing you can take off your plate so that you can ….”. The rest of the question depends.
In the spirit of encouraging reflection and intention, let me ask you.
What’s one thing you can take off your plate so that you can:
- …focus on your highest-impact tasks? (Think Pareto Principle – 80/20 rule)
- …create more time for strategic thinking?
- …have more energy to invest in long-term goals?
- …dedicate more attention to growth opportunities?
- …prioritize your personal well-being and avoid burnout?
2025 is around the corner. How do you want to finish 2024?
CONQUER YOUR POTENTIAL!
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