Category Archives: Work

#121 The Next Level

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Here is a problem with success: expectations begin to rise. No sooner than a task is completed, there is an immediate need to ratchet up performance. This can be a blessing or a real pain. It can be motivating or a depressant.

Almost every human I know needs physical and psychological rest between accomplishments. Almost no one can handle the relentless pace of change that is thrust upon them. Assess the capacity to absorb change and the need for recuperation from the prior effort in your audience before you hand out goals.

More important, as you challenge yourself, do not place an undue burden upon yourself. Give yourself time to recuperate before you take on the next level of achievement. In other words, don’t be a martyr unless it is really, really worth it.

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#120 Too easy or Too hard

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We all love Goldilocks tasks, you know, the ones that are neither too hard, nor too easy. Such tasks “make our day” and make us feel good!

Tasks that are too easy don’t stretch you, thus the feeling of accomplishment is low. This leads to boredom and ennui.

Tasks that are too hard are scary, they may evoke extreme reactions of fight or flight in you. This leads to fear, or aggressiveness. In some cases, you may feel energized.

If you can choose your tasks, then find a good “portfolio” of tasks that will maximize your productivity and develop your capabilities. Being able to choose your tasks is the ultimate freedom and reward you can hope for in the workplace. Not being able to choose your tasks is a reality you need to deal with. If you cannot choose your tasks, stay in the moment, and deal with the issues at hand. Set aside time to create a plan that will allow you to choose your tasks.

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