“Scratch the surface of most cynics and you find a frustrated idealist–someone who made the mistake of converting his ideals into expectations.” -Peter M. Senge, “The Fifth Discipline” (p. 146)
A number of years ago I noticed a distressing pattern in my life. Despite my best efforts to “make things happen” in business settings, relationships, and other areas, I was continually disappointed. Nothing seemed to work out as I had hoped.
I have diligently searched for the secret of success and fulfillment. Ideally, as I’m sure many would agree, this should be a quick, fast-tracked way to skip all the hard work and drudgery.
Finally, I have solved the mystery. Are you ready? Here it is:
I previously detailed the painful experience but happy end results of my recent vehicle incident.
But that was not the best part of the story. The best part was the life-changing experience of changing my mindset and actions behind the wheel.
My theme words for this season of life are simplify and focus. I even jotted these words on a note and hung it on my wall next to my computer at work. Every day in every way, I think: simplify and focus.
As Richard Koch demonstrates in his book about the 80/20 principle, complex is ugly, but simple is beautiful. Additionally, the Heath brothers show the value of simplicity in Made to Stick, which I’m re-listening to on drives to work.