Stop and Think
Print this Article | Send to Colleague
STOP AND THINK:
How to Slow Down to Speed Up
By Lee Silber
Haste makes waste and slow and steady wins the race, but how can we afford to take our time when time now moves at the speed of thought? We must think quick and act fast while not abandoning rational and responsible forethought. This article is about thinking things through so we can act decisively, confidently, and correctly – here’s how.SUCCESS LEAVES CLUES ... AND SAVES TIME
When we study proven winners, we know something should work. To bypass much of the time trial and error can take, we can borrow from the best. Look at what the leaders in similar (or unrelated) fields are doing to build their business and adapt it to what we are doing. Apple founder Steve Jobs would often ask himself, "What would the Beatles do?" We could ask ourselves, "What would Apple do?"
ACT AND REACT ... ON A SMALL SCALE
Big success is often the result of a lot of little decisions and small steps in the right direction. If we overthink things, we may face paralysis by analysis. To avoid procrastination, we have to set a limit on how much research we will do and how long we will take to do it, and then let go and do something ... small. Yes, we must think big, but we can start small – which is far less scary and a lot less risky. Then when we act we can react and tweak things until we get it right.
OBSERVE AND REPORT ... AND RECORD
Studying the numbers (analytics) is important, but we should also study what’s hidden between the lines. Sherlock Holmes was famous for his powers of observation, but he would also say, "I need data. I can’t make bricks without clay." He would then make deductions based on what he learned ... mixed with what he saw – and he saw more than most. Improving our observational skills and spotting opportunities that others miss gives us a competitive advantage. Paying attention to overall trends without overlooking the little details, running the numbers but looking for hidden clues, listening closely to what our customers are telling us (or not telling us), and finding new opportunities for sales sets us apart.
GO WITH YOUR GUT
You know more than you think you know. Have you ever guessed at a question on a test where you weren’t sure you knew the answer, but then later went back to think about it more and change it ... to the wrong answer? Do your homework, go through your "process" to prepare, but when you are unsure what to do (or do next), trust what your instincts are telling you.
LEE SILBER
"Measure twice and cut once" was something Lee’s father always said – and something his father taught him. The fact that all three generations had success in business isn’t a coincidence. Silber’s grandfather owned a large manufacturing company, his father started a built a successful sales and distribution organization, and Lee owns an information-based business. All three generations were efficient at using our time wisely and changing with the times. Today, Silber is the best selling author of 21 books and a popular presenter – when not spending quality time with his family in San Diego.
