“Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.” Albert Einstein
As we cross the threshold of a new year, it is a natural time to reflect on our goals and objectives. It is also an opportunity to implement new approaches or strategies in order to gain increased traction with our objectives. The challenge of course is to be objective and actually reset the gauges and take meaningful action in a new direction.
Sometimes a good starting place is to remind ourselves what “new” means (because the word is so familiar we can get lost in the weeds thinking about it). Here are several definitions from an online dictionary:
New, adj. 1. Recently made or brought into being; 2. Having existed before but only recently discovered; 3. Markedly different from what was before; 4. Fresh and unused; not second-hand.
When considering implementing a new strategy or action step, it is usually wise to focus on one area rather than to take a shotgun approach where we try to throw a lot against a wall and see "what sticks". With this in mind, here are a few practical ideas to get us started:
- Pick one area that needs a fresh approach or strategy. Try to focus on an area that will increase the effectiveness of your deliverables.
- One a piece of paper draw a line down the center creating two columns. In the left column list everything you have done and are presently doing. In the right column list every idea that has not been tried; brainstorm; include ideas that at first seems crazy.
- Put the list away for a day
- The next day review the new idea column. Pick one idea that you are willing to try and commit to acting on it.
- Try the new idea for 90 days. Review the results and determine its effectiveness. Repeat these steps throughout the year.
The idea is to make a bit of a game out of it. The goal is to improve effectiveness and maximize the deliverables that are produced by your effort and by the efforts of the team you influence (lead).
It’s a new year and a perfect time to try something – new.
Happy New Year!