Image source by Peter Griffin
#1. Describe wins simply; one word if possible.
#2. Move from simplicity to clarity.
- Explain what you don’t want. Tap your frustrations for guidance. Everyone knows what they don’t want.
- Move from negatives to positives. “I want to stop losing my temper.” Controlling your temper is stopping something, a “don’t want.”
Stopping or preventing helps but there’s more. A positive win could be asking two questions while maintaining low tones, for example. - The win in this example could be, “Harness anger.”
- Define purpose. Why harness anger? What’s the real reason?
#3. Make winning a series of clear destinations, not a onetime event.
A journey is a series of destinations,
not simply wandering around.
#4. Win sooner than later, today is best. Win again tomorrow. Winners create a series of wins.
#5. Describe two behaviors that create today’s win. Avoid behaviors you’d like to do. Describe behaviors you can do.
#6. Identify counterproductive behaviors. Thursday I had a conversation about time management with my coach, Bob Hancox. I brought up email. Answering emails when they arrive is being managed by email. I’m turning off that dang dinger (negative) and scheduling “respond to email” times (positive).
#7. Build sustaining relationships. What relationships help you win? What hinder? Which relationships call for transformation? How? Seek sustaining relationships with trusted:
- Clients. Yes, transform a trusted client into an ally.
- Colleagues.
- Family.
- Employees. Show direct reports that personal development matters.
- Coaches or mentors. I’ve found being and having a coach one of leadership’s most productive development activities.
Transparency, vulnerability and positive direction
define winning relationships.
#8. Evaluate progress. When will you evaluate progress? With who?
#9. Pat yourself on the back. When and how will you celebrate? Who celebrates with you?
#10. Redefine the win. Return to the center, frequently.
Bonus: Start again.
How are you creating personal wins?
