INSIGHTS (on leadership/self-leadership)
Research from the London Business School points to the most fundamental things you forget when it comes to developing good judgment – the need to actively listen, avoid unconsciously filtering the information you receive, and be critical of everything you read or hear. Pay attention to the source and quality of the information you’re consuming and the underlying interests of those providing it. Try to spot discrepancies and inconsistencies in the data, while seeking to contradict your opinion, not just validate it. Be aware of YOUR biases and stop them cold as you are forming an opinion. Finally, don’t let any information sway your emotions, thus skewing your decision-making.
IMPERFECTIONS (a mistake many make)
Harvard research aptly demonstrates what I believe to be the single biggest happiness drain – our inability to stay present in the moment. The research shows an astonishing 47% of the time we’re not focused on what’s right in front of us – and measured happiness in these times is at its lowest. It’s one of the greatest travesties of our time. You get stuck in “The Unhelpful In-Between,” not appreciating the experience unfolding before you, not able to fully engage in whatever has you distracted. A life half-lived versus fully realized. Instead, recite the acronym ZINO before engaging in something: “Zone In, Not Out.” Remind yourself to be mindful, not mind full. Or keep asking yourself, “What has my attention right now?” Staying present is a profound present – for you and those around you.
IMPLEMENTATION (one research-backed strategy, tip, or tool)
Here’s a simple, but powerful tactic I use for staying focused on opportunities versus setbacks. It’s this cabinet door I keep near my desk in my office.
It’s a constant reminder for me that when a door closes, a window opens. And I can tell you from experience, it’s profoundly true – I’ve experienced it over and over again. Believing that a window of opportunity will open, eventually, after a pursuit fizzles out, helps you keep perspective and allows you to focus on what it takes to be ready when that next opportunity presents itself. What could you place at your desk that would symbolize this?
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