I don’t know about you but I was always told to “work hard and success will come” and that’s true, to a point. Put it the other way around – success won’t come without hard work – and it is much truer.
It is really important to work smarter, not harder.
There’s an old saying “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again but expecting different results” which has been attributed to many authors. If working harder was going to make the difference you want to make, then you are just too lazy!
So take a step back and build into your schedule some time to think. Even the Prime Minister takes a few minutes each day – and I am sure his diary is busier than most – to stop and reflect.
Perhaps take time to go for a walk – the physical exercise is good for you as well, and if you have a dog (as I do) they will appreciate it!
A further opportunity to make sure you are working smart is to join a Mastermind Group. That’s a group, usually of your peers, where you can share your thoughts and problem. You can get and give feedback and sometimes just explaining things to your peers helps you see the solution to your problem.
If a mastermind group is not for you, consider engaging with a coach or a mentor. There are hundreds available, so be careful who you choose, but they can be a fantastic way of getting clarity and becoming re-energised.
On a less personal, more business level you might consider engaging a Non-Executive Director.
The Institute of Directors says “Essentially the non-executive director’s role is to provide a creative contribution to the board by providing objective criticism…should bring an independent judgement to bear on issues of strategy, performance and resources including key appointments and standards of conduct.”
Whichever route you choose, make time to ensure your efforts are focused in the right direction. If you aren’t focused on the right things, your team won’t be – you are the leader and leading in the wrong direction won’t get you to your destination.