I was speaking with a sales director for a large US company recently. Bob enjoyed his work but was increasingly frustrated that his longer hours were not yielding bigger returns.
I asked Bob just one thing.
“Tell me all the things you do especially well.”
Bob started, listing off all the things that he was doing at work, but that is not what I asked him for.
It quickly became apparent to us both that through a combination of corporate downsizing, higher organizational demands and his own choices, he was doing a lot of stuff that he actually didn’t execute very well.
And by taking on all these additional tasks – of which some would say they were requirements of his job – Bob found himself procrastinating, re-doing projects, feeling doubt in his ability and generally fearful of what was happening now and next.
Now, some reading this might say “oh that’s not me” or “I only do the stuff I enjoy”. If that’s true, great. But if you are working longer or harder with no significant return of money or enjoyment, this story directly relates to you!
Action – Write out 2 lists – one of the things you know you do especially well and the other of the actual things you do in relation to your work.
How big is the mismatch?
(What stands out for you with this story? Please share your thoughts in the comments box.)