Influence your world: How to take command in 10 Steps (or less)
In this second part of how to build YOU.0. I will focus on your perception of your world and how you take decisions.
I have made a habit of observing people and I found that those who ponder less, and act more, find themselves to be more fulfilled.
Having accountability and ownership of your environment is a game changer. In my opinion overthinking is a vice, and if you find yourself reacting to “life” then pay close attention to the next ten elements:
Uncontrolled desire for something for nothing: Have you ever wished to win the lottery? or for a friend to do you a favor because they are a friend? I am certain you have wished hard to loose a few kilos without really doing the effort to exercise regularly and stay consistent with the right nutrition plan. Well the same applies to your growth and well being. You can’t expect to become successful without putting in the effort. Your mindset is a byproduct of your actions and vice versa.
Decisions making: When commander Tariq Ibn Ziyad and his troops landed at Gibraltar (Jabal Tariq) he ordered his ships to be burned: Oh my warriors, whither would you flee? Behind you is the sea, before you the enemy”. Tariq Ibn Ziyad, 711 A.D. This is the power of decision making, The commander left his troops with no choice but to fight and win or fear the enemy and perish. “If you want to take the island, burn the ships” -Tony Robbins. Overthinking delays action and know that very few things happened by chance. Growth, amongst other good things, happens by change, and action. Practice decision making this week: make choices on your own without soliciting the help of others. Start small and build your confidence from there.
Basic fears: There are many different types of fears… and for more on the topic, you may go back to the article specifically dedicated to it, entitled “What do you fear?” Regardless of the nature, fear holds you back. It is a natural emotion which is embedded in the brain from prehistoric times. Fear is what kept humans alive and out of danger. The dangers have shifted from running away from lions to trying to keep a job and so the basic biological fight or flight responses remains the same. Do not ignore your fear, rather learn to harness and understand it. Take an educated decision and refer to point two to move forward. Don’t let fear be an obstacle to your success.
Selection of a mate in life: Your partner in life plays a crucial role that can make or break you. It is important that you have mutual respect, understanding of your motivations and support each other to fulfill your goals.
Over caution: Goes hand in hand with decision-making. I’m not asking you to take unreasonable risks either, rather take the right amount of time to consider options without overthinking. Once the decision is made, then lock it in and act upon it. You will have room to adjust as you go if necessary. Be the person at the sail and master of your ship and know that; in the words of Simon Sinek “always plan for the fact that no plan ever goes according to plan” so why be overly cautious?
Selection of business associates or employers: Whether you are an entrepreneur venturing off to build your dream or an employee, it is crucial that you select the right partners or an inspirational employer. Keep in mind that we emulate those with whom we associate most closely. It is therefore of utmost importance that you emulate the right behavior until that behavior becomes second nature to you.
Superstition and prejudice: The belief that factors outside of your control govern your life is the superstition you must avoid. Focus on all the elements that are in your control. On the other hand prejudice means that you are enclosed and cannot see opportunities outside of your realm of acceptance. Success is often the fruit of exploration and openness to what you aren’t used to. Get out of your comfort zone and create your own success. In today’s COVID 19 lockdown, we couldn’t be better placed to create… a new you!
Selection of a vocation: If the job isn’t right for you then change it! You are not a tree fixed in one location. I understand that there are many factors to consider but if you feel fundamentally unhappy or unfulfilled where you are then take that step and go back to points two and three; and Here’s Good News: we can build your goals and exit strategy together!
Focus and concentration of one effort: To be truly successful one must be an expert in their field. The Jack of all trades maybe a good place to start but as you develop interests, focus your mind and energy in one direction and become the best reference you can be for that particular vocation or niche. The same principle applies if you are changing vocations. Learn as much as you can about your new line and devote your attention and time towards it; and make sure you build a strong support system to help see you through.
Indiscriminate spending: Oh! How I have been scorned! If you are spending your money without thinking, then all you are doing is eventually putting yourself in a situation where you don’t have the strength to bargain. Know that you can’t negotiate if you don’t have financial security. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you obliged to settle for less than what you are worth.
Final Thoughts: I have had the pleasure of dealing with the skeptics of how our brains and actions can influence our life, well being and livelihood and I have also had the pleasure of seeing transformation in the people that I coach through these principles. The brain operates the same no matter your background or situation. With a little will, commitment and the right support You Can Make It!
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Written by Tarek Azmi. Founder of Here’s Good News, a training and development company dedicated to your personal and professional growth, offering learning modules, coaching sessions and personal training.
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Notes:
Napoleon Hill, "Think and Grow Rich", "Organised Planning", The Ralston Society, 1937, Ch. 7.
Tariq Ibn Ziyad, Speech, <http://www.wikipedia.org>.
“always plan for the fact that no plan ever goes according to plan”, Simon Sinek, author and motivational speaker