Permission to Obsess
Obsessiveness can be a negative trait. Top-tier leaders are extremely focused, giving 100x more attention to everything than most people. Thus, they tend to get bogged down in the swamp of minutia. Although tasks are completed, nothing gets done. Quicksand!
Yet, obsessiveness can be channeled into a positive force. How? By obsessing on the GOAL rather than the tasks at hand. When the goal is clear the tasks will naturally disappear. Vision eliminates stagnation. Here, obsession actually fuels productivity and momentum.
Here’s how to turn O.B.S.E.S.S. into success…
Observe
Think deeply about your goals. Dreaming about the future will clarify your present. Conversely, when you lack excitement about tomorrow, you lose discernment of today’s details. Keep your eyes on the prize. It will help you identify what’s important.
Build
It’s okay to be restless. Don’t apologize for your passion to create, innovate, and improve. However, you have to know when to accept your work as being sufficient. Eventually, you need to “tie a bow” on your tasks, and move on to more pressing matters.
Serve
Great leaders have others in mind. They want to leave a legacy that makes sense. They don’t want to just build their dreams, they want to build people. They are driven by the question, “How can I most use my gifts to best serve others?” Obsess about that.
Excel
Never settle for mediocrity or “good enough.” Continually strive to solicit the WOW factor in everything you do. Don’t ask, “Why do I have to do this?” Rather ask, “WHAT do I have to do?” Cultivate a spirit of excellence. Be willing to do whatever it takes.
See
Develop long-range vision. Yet, be aware you will often see what others can’t and do what others don’t. Be mindful not to frustrate people by forging ahead without context. Your vision should be compelling and clear enough to elicit heartfelt involvement.
Solve
Instead of seeing problems, choose to see the possibilities. Don’t merely propose the challenges, but present the opportunities. Dilemmas are common in the world of leadership. However, your position is designed to bring solutions. Be the ultimate optimist!
