2.12 – Persevere to the Finish

To finish strong Optimism is helpful. A smile or laugh is contagious. Unfortunately, so is pessimism. While positive thinking can provide some good benefits, it is not the answer. Non-negative thinking is the better approach. It is about being clear-minded about resources, obstacles, and opportunities, not trying to “positive think” them away, but not letting those things prevent you from moving toward your desired results. Additionally, leaders are best served knowing how to Focus. Distraction is part of our lives; worse yet, it is a lifestyle for many. Removing distractions can be difficult but can be conquered by segmenting, simplifying, slowing down, and single-tasking. Since we do not control our environment, we also need to know how to focus when others are creating distractions. Persistence realizes that starting is critical, but finishing is the goal. Persistence is part of the Great Leaders formula because it helps you get THERE. In the last phases of any project leaders need to focus on five key actions – stay connected to the team, communicate clearly and consistently, focus on deliberate action, give everyone freedom to act, and outrun the resistance. Finally, Plan for the Future revisits strategy and THP while using some business analysis forms to help leaders apply the continual process of focusing on THERE.