Gaining Traction

[John C.]

We often get stuck in a rut and spin our wheels, go in circles or just plain don’t make any visible progress. It does not matter if you are talking about large or small projects, business or personal, here is a way to get unstuck, to gain traction.

One important note. It is very important to write out this exercise. It is very tempting to just answer in your head. It is not nearly as effective.

Step one. Write down what you are trying to accomplish. What are you trying to get done? Include something which will indicate you have achieved your goal.

Step two. Why is this important? How will your life/business/relationships change when you achieve this goal? You must understand the importance of your goal. If it is not important, you will not devote the time and energy necessary.

Now answer the following questions. Again write out the answers.

1. What’s working? List all the things you are doing that is leading you toward your goal.
2. What’s not working? You might be tempted to skip or minimize this. Don’t. This is extremely important. We often default to behavior that is not working. Unless we are aware of what is not working, we will fall back into those habits/behaviors.
3. What’s missing? What is needed that would make a real difference in your results?
4. What’s next? Based on your previous answers, what is the next step? Take it. Then repeat the exercise as necessary.

 

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