"Good to Great" Life
I just finished reading the book "Good to Great" by Jim Collins. It was a phenomenal and fast read that I found incredibly inspiring, especially given the fact that I don't often read books like this. Or didn't use to...
Throughout the book, I was struck by two factors.
The first factor that struck me was the simplicity of the concept: Do what you're good at, do it well, and stay focused. Similarly simple concepts in the book include: Surround yourself with like-minded people, be patient, be realistic, and have faith in the end game.
We are not talking about sophisticated strategies that are attainable only by business school graduates or heirs to fortunes. We are talking about self-evident truths that can be discovered by the hard-working owner of a hot dog stand. They can be taught to children through leading by example.
The second factor that struck me was the applicability of these concepts in almost any field, both personal and professional. In fact, using these concepts in an effort to merge personal and professional interests will help ensure a more satisfied life overall.
As a hard-working individual, you realize that you can literally do anything if you really want to. You can be great if you want to. However, the question to ask yourself is not "How do I push for greatness" but rather "What subject or issue makes me want to be great?
For example: I am talented at learning languages, but I don't simply pick up a language by watching TV or buying a book. I learn a language through consistent, diligent, and prolonged study of the language, both written and spoken. I put a tremendous amount of hours and energy into learning the language.
Anyone putting in the same amount of energy could learn the language, but my passion for languages makes me want to put in that amount of energy, thereby ensuring my success, which in turn makes me sublimely happy.
What field or career actually makes you want to work that hard? If you can't answer that question, perhaps you can find employers who demonstrate the values and commitments mentioned above. Stick with the right people and you will be inspired. The rest will come.
I hope.
Throughout the book, I was struck by two factors.
The first factor that struck me was the simplicity of the concept: Do what you're good at, do it well, and stay focused. Similarly simple concepts in the book include: Surround yourself with like-minded people, be patient, be realistic, and have faith in the end game.
We are not talking about sophisticated strategies that are attainable only by business school graduates or heirs to fortunes. We are talking about self-evident truths that can be discovered by the hard-working owner of a hot dog stand. They can be taught to children through leading by example.
The second factor that struck me was the applicability of these concepts in almost any field, both personal and professional. In fact, using these concepts in an effort to merge personal and professional interests will help ensure a more satisfied life overall.
As a hard-working individual, you realize that you can literally do anything if you really want to. You can be great if you want to. However, the question to ask yourself is not "How do I push for greatness" but rather "What subject or issue makes me want to be great?
For example: I am talented at learning languages, but I don't simply pick up a language by watching TV or buying a book. I learn a language through consistent, diligent, and prolonged study of the language, both written and spoken. I put a tremendous amount of hours and energy into learning the language.
Anyone putting in the same amount of energy could learn the language, but my passion for languages makes me want to put in that amount of energy, thereby ensuring my success, which in turn makes me sublimely happy.
What field or career actually makes you want to work that hard? If you can't answer that question, perhaps you can find employers who demonstrate the values and commitments mentioned above. Stick with the right people and you will be inspired. The rest will come.
I hope.
posted by Allison at 3:43 PM
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