Keep doing the little things…

That phrase is familiar to all of us and we have heard athletes talk about getting back to the basics and that the team needs to do the “little things”. For top performers and producers it is critical that we stay clear on what those things are and continue to do them. It is easy to get caught up into the inner workings of projects and partnerships. However, if we don’t continue to stuff the funnel, then we will eventually come up short. Short on time, short on opportunities, short on results.

Michael Jordan and Larry Bird were know for always practicing the fundamentals and for consistently drilling themselves on free throws and easy shots. The professional golfers who score well are good at sinking putts that they should make. It is done by repetition and consistent focus on basics.

Time is the one thing that is equal for each of us. And time management is an area where we can be defeated. We should focus only on activities that produce results. Eliminate those which do not. Here are some ways you can hone in on what you want.

• Determine your 80/20 rule; Determine what it is that generates the most results for you and to have a plan to focus on those activities. Don’t waste time on those activities that do not help you produce the kind of results you are striving for. Normally 80% of your results will be a result of 20% of your activity. Focus on the 20% that really generates the results.

• Make a list of top priorities; Do this every day. Make a list of what your top priorities are each and every day. They will vary, but remember to stay focused on the most important activities.

• Know your CSF’s; These will be your Critical Success Factors. What are the critical elements that you MUST do in order to be successful.

• Control what you can control; You may not be able to control what someone else does, but you can control what you do. With every deal you put together, there are things you can control. Don’t try and force something to happen, it should come naturally if it is a good fit. Focus on those things you CAN control.

In order to consistently perform at a top level, keep in mind the “little things” we must do in order to be successful every day and eliminate those activities which deter us from achievement. You are the master of your destiny, so take control of it every day and determine what it is you will accomplish every day. Don’t forget the “little things”. Systems, management, external pressures will converge on you to knock you off course, but stand tall, refocus and claim the results you deserve in life.

To your success…

Respect the Torch!