This is part of my Thought Piece Series where I explore topics related to leadership and provide both answers and questions. My intention is to start meaningful conversations that help us move forward.
If it ain’t broke…
At this time of year especially, online platforms are full of encouragement and challenges to “do something New!”
It’s the new year after all, so it’s the perfect time to do something New!
In some cases, it’s turning into an unhealthy obsession that implies that you must do something new or you have given up on life.
And recently I’ve been seeing this a little bit with my clients: a curiosity and endeavour to find how to do something new or better when it wasn’t needed.
When we have explored and gone into depth, what they are already doing is working really well for them.
We often get to a conclusion of “well, just keep doing what you are doing”.
And while this conclusion is absolutely grounded in thorough reflection, we have viewed from different perspectives, challenging questions have been asked and answered, and we have been striving for the best answer, we’ve both felt a little bit uncomfortable.
What, just carry on as before?
Don’t change anything? Don’t be better? (In my head I’ve got that scene playing from Bridget Jones where she tells her friends Darcy likes her, just as she is).
We don’t often hear that, that we are good, just as we are. And we don’t associate it with working with a coach. Surely there is always something to improve? But I don’t believe in change for the sake of change.
While I wholeheartedly believe that change is good and that things can be better, I also believe that we can also reach that place where what I’m doing now, and how I am doing it, is working for me.
I don’t need to mess with it. I can enjoy where I am. And reap the rewards of past work.
So if you are human, you have already developed some good habits. And likely last year you added a new practice or new flavour to an existing practice. And as the year progressed, it became more of a natural habit. You probably don’t even think about it anymore, it’s second nature. That’s the stuff I’m talking about.
Now you may want to add a new year’s resolution this year, I’m not going to dissuade you. Go you!
But also take a moment to look at all the good stuff you are already doing.
Take a moment to reflect on this:
What am I already doing that is working for me?
Make a list. I think you’ll be surprised by how many things you add to that list.
Maybe there is nothing to fix right now. So enjoy!
Whatever you are doing that’s working, keep on doing it.