How do you stay focused and concentrate on the right things that will grow your business? How do you avoid “shiny object syndrome” and not get distracted by the new, exciting, or fun, which may or may not add any substantial value.
I think it is helpful to create a lens through which you evaluate opportunities.
For the past few years, I have used Chris Brogan’s technique of “My 3 Words” to inform how I will approach my year – professionally and personally. As background, here is what Chris Brogan says about the process:
I started this process back in 2006. Back then, my 3 words were “Ask. Do. Share.” I picked these very simple words and they served me very well. One of my best years ever. When I asked questions, I learned. When I took action based on what I learned from asking, I made more ground and took over more of the universe. When I shared what I learned with everyone, I made connections and some friends.
Choose any three words you feel will guide you forward. Think of words that inspire an action, especially when faced with a choice.
My top project for this year is my book launch. Even my client work may fall to second place, at least for the first quarter of this year. The words I chose, especially amplify, will ensure I stay focused on getting the word out about the book.
If nobody knows about it, the book will not help anyone and will not evolve the way we work to work for everyone, which is its big mission.
Below is what I posted on LinkedIn:
Chris, being the great guy that he is, immediately commented on my word choices and wished me luck on my book launch. He actually wrote a blurb for the book as well. (Thank you!)
Michelle Wilkes shared her words and why she chose them:
I chose “execute” “align” and “pause” – the pause is to work on moments of impulsivity that don’t always serve me well and to be more mindful in general.
And my dear friend, Carolyn Dragon of TENWOMENSTRONG, opted to stay with her same words from last year:
I’m holding onto Joy, Strength, Community for at least the 1st half of 2023. It has served me well 2nd half 2022.
Carolyn is currently traveling the world with Remote Year and is clearly living her words every single day. She even has a lighted Joy sign that goes along wherever she goes. Fantastic!
Have I inspired you to choose your three words? Please comment on my post on LinkedIn so we can cheer you on.
Photo by Juliana Romão on Unsplash
