Start Everything Finish Nothing

1. Overcome obstacles by breaking them into manageable tasks

"The point is that even the biggest obstacle can be reduced to many small obstacles. If you just keep overcoming the small obstacles, you will make it."

Break it down. When faced with a seemingly insurmountable challenge, divide it into smaller, more manageable tasks. This approach makes the overall goal less daunting and allows for steady progress. By focusing on one step at a time, you build momentum and confidence.

Persistence pays off. Consistently tackling these smaller obstacles leads to eventual success. This method applies to various aspects of life, from personal goals to professional projects. It's essential to maintain perspective and remember that each small accomplishment contributes to the larger objective.

2. Make decisive commitments to achieve your goals

"Picking the alternative, however, is only the first part of making a decision – you haven't finished making the decision until you have committed yourself to that alternative."

Commit fully. True decision-making involves more than just choosing an option; it requires a firm commitment to seeing it through. This commitment is what separates those who achieve their goals from those who merely wish for them.

Action follows commitment. When you fully commit to a decision, you're more likely to take the necessary actions to realize it. This mindset shift can be applied to personal goals, business strategies, and life changes. It's not enough to say you want something; you must be willing to do what it takes to achieve it.

3. Hold yourself and others accountable for results

"Without accountability and a team you can depend on, you will fail as a leader."

Set clear expectations. Establish specific, measurable goals for yourself and your team. Regularly review progress and provide feedback to ensure everyone stays on track.

Create a culture of responsibility. Encourage open communication about successes and failures. Use tools like weekly reports or check-ins to maintain accountability. Remember that as a leader, you must also hold yourself accountable for your commitments and actions.

4. Delegate effectively to empower your team

"It's easier if I do it" is almost always counterproductive, but when it comes to bringing ideas to the organization, it's the worst possible approach.

Trust your team. Effective delegation involves giving your team members both responsibility and authority. This approach not only frees up your time but also allows your team to grow and develop new skills.

Provide support and guidance. When delegating, ensure that your team has the resources and information they need to succeed. Be available for questions and feedback, but resist the urge to micromanage. Allow your team members to take ownership of their tasks and learn from both successes and failures.

5. Build strong relationships through active listening and engagement

"Listening doesn't just help you gather information about the world around you – it helps to make sure you're heard by others, for people are more receptive to those who listen than they are to those who don't."

Practice active listening. Pay full attention to the speaker, ask clarifying questions, and show genuine interest in what they're saying. This approach helps build trust and understanding in both personal and professional relationships.

Engage meaningfully. Go beyond superficial networking by following up with contacts and showing genuine interest in their lives and work. Build relationships based on mutual respect and shared interests, rather than just collecting business cards.

6. Manage your time by prioritizing and protecting it

"At 4 p.m., I stop what I'm doing, turn off all interruptions, go back to my to-do list and desk calendar, and ask myself, 'What did I set out to do today that I haven't done yet, and what're the tasks I absolutely need to get done today?'"

Establish routines. Create daily habits that help you stay focused on your priorities. Set aside specific times for checking emails, returning calls, and tackling high-priority tasks.

Protect your time. Learn to say no to non-essential tasks and interruptions. Use tools like scheduling software or a personal assistant to manage your time effectively. Remember that your time is your most valuable resource, and how you spend it directly impacts your success.

7. Adapt to change by staying flexible and having a Plan B

"Dealing with change has many forms. Your day can be disrupted by a phone call or any number of interruptions that can throw you off course."

Embrace flexibility. Accept that change is inevitable and be prepared to adjust your plans accordingly. Develop a mindset that sees change as an opportunity rather than a threat.

Always have a backup plan. Anticipate potential obstacles and prepare alternative strategies. This approach allows you to respond quickly and effectively to unexpected challenges, maintaining progress towards your goals even in the face of setbacks.

8. Finish what you start by focusing on high-priority tasks

"At the end of each day, you must take control of the situation, disregard the voicemails, the emails, and everything else, and even - if you must - close the door."

Prioritize ruthlessly. Identify the most important tasks that align with your goals and focus on completing them. Don't let less critical tasks or distractions derail your progress.

Create a completion mindset. Develop the habit of seeing tasks through to completion. This approach builds momentum and confidence, leading to greater overall productivity and success.

9. Lead by example and inspire others to follow

"Nobody is interested in hearing how difficult your day was and how many things that you started and how many things you didn't get done. All they want to know is what you want them to do and when you want it done."

Set the standard. As a leader, your actions and attitude set the tone for your team. Demonstrate the work ethic, resilience, and commitment you expect from others.

Provide clear direction. Communicate your vision and expectations clearly. Help your team understand not just what needs to be done, but why it's important. Inspire them by connecting their individual efforts to the larger goals of the organization.

Last updated: August 11, 2024