Undertake more than you can: you’ll be better for it
April 9, 2007 – 2:40 pm“Unless a man undertakes more than he possibly can do, he will never do all that he can.” [via]
Henry Drummond, (1851 - 1897)
Scottish theologist and scientist
What have you done to stretch your limits? This can be professionally, physically, mentally, you name it.
Professionally: Try taking on additional responsibilities, getting training, picking up a new skill, or attending an industry event. Or, maybe even making an attempt to create a blog, and, a soon to be launched social network. =)
Physically: Try running just a few more blocks. Or taking a walk when you would otherwise watch TV.
Mentally: Try picking up a good book or journal. Engage in deep conversations with your friends.
I’m no Covey expert, but what are you doing to “Sharpen the saw”?
A survey by Chief Executive magazine chose 7 Habits as the most influential book of the 20th century, so he must be on to something with the whole “sharpen the saw” mindset.
And if you haven’t read his books, you can buy them from just about every new and used bookstore out there. Or, ask your friends, because chances are good that someone you know has them.
If its worth doing, its worth sharing. Myself? I’m going to brush up on my Covey-isms.
What are you doing in the “sharpening the saw” category?
Technorati Tags: Covey, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, stretch, mental, limits
3 Responses to “Undertake more than you can: you’ll be better for it”
Excellent thoughts. I went through a leadership training course that hammered heavily on the “7 habits” - I can say with certainty that it was one of the better self-development books I’ve ever read.
There is a danger of taking on too much from the standpoint that you’ll let people down by not holding up your end of the deal. It’s definitely good to stretch your limits, but how much is too much?
-Jameson
By Jameson Huckaba on Apr 9, 2007
Jameson, very valid point in regards to overcommitment.
Stretch is good, but there is also a physical limit when things start to break. Its better to be upfront and communicate in regards to status (so you don’t get on the bad side of the project management team), and if you can’t get the project done on time, communicate that.
In addition to taking on more, it is also important to discontinue things that don’t add value and offload items of lower importance.
Personally, I’ve found that I am more productive when I’m challenged and have a busy, but realistic work load. In those situations, you are forced to make decisions on what really has to be done and what can be kicked to the curb.
By Dustin Jacobsen on Apr 9, 2007
excellent post, dustin. i love the quote. and it’s true…we humans can take on - and more importantly do more - than we often do. nice reminder to push the limits.
By Andy Woolard on Apr 9, 2007