I am sure many of you have read this book but it caught my attention this week and is worth the read if you haven't. "The One Thing" by Gary Keller
The book's focus is on identifying simple truths to extraordinary results. Out of all of the books that I have read I believe this book addresses what it conceptually looks like to operate an organization that has the potential to or has achieved extraordinary results. Like any book that is focused on leadership or development there are about 20 applicable pages to your specific area of interest out of the whole book.
In the work world we constantly look for "work/life balance." The famed concept that I don't believe truly exists for any length of time. That being said I really like how he depicts the concept of balance. He gives a true perspective of what balance looks like if you are trying to push the needle in your organization. The picture above illustrates the concept.
"To achieve the extraordinary result you must choose what matters most and give it all the time it demands. The magic happens in the extremes."
This requires getting extremely out of balance for a period of time. When that imbalance happens you will often find that when you allocate that level of time, personnel, and resources you will achieve results that got your name on the map in the first place.
However, you can't stay there. When you try to stay there you lose. You will either burn out, burn your team out, let other aspects of the organization fail, forgo the development of your employees, lose your family, destroy your health, etc.
"When you gamble with our time, you may be placing a bet you can't cover. Even if you're sure you can win, be careful that you can live with what you lose."
If your desire is to achieve extraordinary results you will automatically go out of balance. The challenge can't become not going out of balance but rather how long do you stay out of balance.
In your personal world, awareness is the essential ingredient. Awareness of your spirit, family, and your body. None of things can be neglected for too long.
An extraordinary life is a counterbalancing act. Let the right things take precedence when they should and get the rest when you can.
I hope these thoughts challenge you as they did me. Lead NWA well this week!
-Dr. McDaniel
