My son is going to renovate our 30 year old kitchen this year and we were mapping out what needs to happen and by when. Although excited by the prospect I was a little hesitant to start because it is a big job which requires removing a wall and besides, I don’t have time to do what is necessary to plan it and choose tiles, cabinets and appliances. He said “Just punch a hole in the wall with a sledgehammer and then you’ll have to start!”
It’s true though. Often we don’t start a project or make a change because we simply don’t have the time, or perhaps we are waiting for the stars to align or it might be something that requires learning new skills and takes us out of our comfort zone or sometimes we’re anxious because we fear the unknown and wonder if it will turn out OK. When you are planning your goals for 2013 identify if you may be at risk of self-sabotage.
In Pete Cook’s book Implement he says that all projects go through three phases:
1. Start
2. Persevere
3. Complete
He says that “Typically, we have strengths and weaknesses at different phases. It’s valuable to reflect on which phase you are most comfortable in and where you need the most help. For instance do you have trouble starting? Or you’re good at starting, but not so strong at persevering? If you’re good at starting and persevering, then maybe you’re like me and struggle with the last 5%?
Is there is a decision you put off making last year which was going to change the trajectory of your business and take it to a new level? Was it because you would need to get out of your comfort zone, or learn new skills or the timing wasn’t perfect or you were just plain fearful of the unknown? Just punch a hole in the wall and just get started. Don’t end this year wondering what might have been possible.
Love to hear your thoughts, please leave them below.
