The Inner Game of Work

1. Self 1 vs. Self 2: Understanding the Inner Game

Performance (P) in any activity, from hitting a ball to solving a complex business problem, was equal to one's potential (p) after the interference factor (i) had been subtracted from the equation.

The Inner Game concept revolves around the interplay between two selves within us. Self 1 is the voice of judgment, doubt, and fear, while Self 2 represents our innate capabilities and potential. The key to improved performance lies in reducing Self 1's interference, allowing Self 2 to express itself more fully.

This internal dynamic affects all aspects of our work and life:

• Self 1 tends to overanalyze, criticize, and create self-doubt
• Self 2 is capable of natural, effortless learning and performance
  Reducing Self 1 interference leads to:
  • Improved focus
  • Enhanced learning
  • Better performance
  • Increased enjoyment

2. Focus of Attention: The Key to Superior Performance

Focus is about paying attention while doing whatever you are doing.

Focused attention is the cornerstone of excellence in any activity. It's not about forced concentration, but rather about directing our awareness to the most relevant aspects of our task or environment.

Key aspects of effective focus:

• Nonjudgmental awareness reduces self-interference
• Focus follows interest, not forced effort
• Selecting critical variables helps direct attention effectively
  Examples of critical variables:
  • In tennis: ball trajectory, spin, speed
  • In sales: customer interest level, body language
  • In management: team dynamics, project timelines

Practicing focus in daily activities can lead to significant improvements in performance, learning, and enjoyment across all areas of work and life.

3. Redefining Work: Performance, Learning, and Enjoyment

Experience itself could be the final authority.

The work triangle presents a new paradigm for understanding and approaching work. Instead of focusing solely on performance, this model emphasizes the equal importance of learning and enjoyment.

Components of the work triangle:

1. Performance: Achieving tangible results
2. Learning: Developing skills and understanding
3. Enjoyment: Finding satisfaction and fulfillment

Benefits of balancing the work triangle:

• Increased motivation and engagement
• Improved long-term performance
• Enhanced personal and professional growth
• Greater job satisfaction and reduced burnout

By consciously attending to all three aspects, individuals can create a more sustainable and rewarding work experience.

4. From Conformity to Mobility: Taking Control of Your Work Life

Mobility is not only change but fulfillment and harmony with one's progress.

Mobility in work refers to the ability to move consciously towards desired goals while maintaining personal fulfillment. It's about breaking free from unconscious conformity and taking charge of one's work life.

Key elements of mobility:

1. Grant yourself mobility (acknowledge your inherent ability to change)
2. Have a clear picture of your desired destination
3. Be willing to make changes within your change
4. Keep your purpose clear
5. Synchronize your movement and direction

Developing mobility allows individuals to:

• Make more conscious choices about their work and career
• Align personal values with professional goals
• Adapt more effectively to changing work environments
• Experience greater satisfaction and success in their work

5. The STOP Tool: Enhancing Conscious Decision-Making

If you don't have time for STOP, that's when you need it most.

The STOP tool is a powerful technique for breaking out of performance momentum and making more conscious decisions. It stands for:

S - Step back
T - Think
O - Organize your thoughts
P - Proceed

Benefits of using STOP:

• Reduces reactive decision-making
• Enhances strategic thinking
• Improves problem-solving
• Increases awareness of priorities

Situations to use STOP:

1. Before starting a new project or task
2. When feeling overwhelmed or stressed
3. Before important meetings or decisions
4. To reflect on progress and lessons learned

Regular use of STOP can lead to more effective work practices, better time management, and increased overall satisfaction with work.

6. Think Like a CEO: Taking Charge of Your Personal Corporation

You are the CEO of an amazing corporation.

Viewing yourself as a CEO of your own life and career can dramatically shift your perspective and approach to work. This mindset encourages taking full responsibility for your choices, development, and outcomes.

Key aspects of thinking like a CEO:

• Recognize your innate resources and capabilities
• Take stock of your "shares" (autonomy in decision-making)
• Define your mission and values
• Make strategic decisions about your "product" (what you offer)
• Invest in your own growth and development

Benefits of adopting a CEO mindset:

• Increased sense of control and autonomy
• More strategic approach to career decisions
• Enhanced self-awareness and personal growth
• Improved ability to align work with personal values and goals

7. Coaching for Mobility: Facilitating Growth and Development

Coaching is the art of creating an environment, through conversation and a way of being, that facilitates the process by which a person can move toward desired goals in a fulfilling manner.

Effective coaching focuses on facilitating mobility rather than solving problems or giving advice. It involves creating an environment that allows individuals to access their own resources and find their own solutions.

Key elements of coaching for mobility:

1. Awareness: Helping clients see their current reality clearly
2. Choice: Assisting in identifying and evaluating options
3. Trust: Building confidence in one's abilities and resources

Coaching techniques:

• Ask powerful questions rather than providing answers
• Use the "transposing" tool to understand different perspectives
• Focus on critical variables to enhance awareness
• Employ the STOP tool to promote conscious decision-making

Benefits of this coaching approach:

• Empowers individuals to find their own solutions
• Enhances self-awareness and learning
• Promotes long-term growth and development
• Improves performance and job satisfaction

Last updated: September 2, 2024