Category Archives: External links

#219 Letting it go… what’s left?

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A cognitive bias happens when you “cling” to an idea. There nothing good or bad about a cognitive bias, but you have to be aware of your own biases and protect yourself (and others) against its side effects.

Some “clinging” is praised, such as a determined soldier who sacrifices his or her life in battle. Other types of “clinging” is criticized, such as an obstinate co-worker who refuses to see alternate perspectives.

Meditation will help you uncover your biases, I’d recommend this or this. In the beginning, as your mind becomes calm, you may meditate more, to get more calmness. This is just another form of “clinging,” so beware.

As you discover your biases, you’ll give up your tendency to “cling” and thus will be more relaxed and open. However, you still need a basis for action. After all your biases have been eradicated, you’ll be left with just your values. Without values, your actions will be random and unpredictable. There will be no peace till you sort out your values.

What if you are “clinging” to your values? Yes, that can be a problem! My hypothesis is that an authentic set of values will cause you to find peace within yourself and not disrupt the peace of your co-workers and fellow humans. Therefore, if you invest time in discovering (not inventing) your true values, you’ll give up “clinging” much sooner.

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#208 Intent versus Execution (a sniff test)

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We often pride ourselves on our knowledge and ability to pontificate. The “The Smart-Talk Trap” is something we fall into often. If we sound good, we must be good, right? At some point, we have to stop talking and start doing, meaning, we have to show the ability to execute. Here is a framework to assess where you stand in your execution capabilities and how to improve.

Intent versus execution

Intent versus execution

If you are not clear about your intent, outcomes sought, goals, vision, and mission, then you will have chaos, no matter how good your execution capabilities. Hence Stephen Covey’s advice to “Start with the end in mind.”

If you do not have execution capabilities, but have clarity of intent, your usefulness is very limited. You will talk more and do less and you will be a barrier to achievements.

The first step is to honestly assess where you stand. Take the capabilities you need and find a spot for them on the matrix.

  • Move vertically (upward) by improving the clarity of your intent. Define your vision, mission, and SMART goals. Organize your work into projects, programs, and initiatives; manage them like a portfolio. Meaning, add and remove projects based on priority.
  • Move horizontally to the right by acquiring (or building) the tools, training your workforce to use the tools, and define a repeatable process. This is the table stakes to give you any hope of being able to execute. Then move up the food chain by improving your project management, use metrics to take decisions, and use feedback loops to improve.
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