I Don't Feel...Anything

Something is different. You're not quite sure what it is, but things aren't what they used to be when you sit down at your desk. You just don't feel anything...the drive, the passion, the 'I'm-all-fired-up-to-make-a-difference' energy that was once part of your style. It seems like you're following the same patterns, connect with the same people, and tackle the same issues as if they were the seasons of the year circling back again.

Wait a minute...

Same routine...again?

Routines Are Good

I have to admit I rely heavily on my routines. It's as if I put myself on autopilot, particularly when I'm getting ready for work, flowing through my day, or even doing my workouts. I know what to do, which helps me avoid making mistakes, forgetting things, or doing anything that will disrupt my life.

Routines often bring confidence, play to our strengths, and keep us securely in our comfort zones. For the most part, that is a pretty good way to think about routines. 

Routines Are Brutal

Here's the problem...routines are lethal.  Not in a sniper-like attack sort of way; but rather, a slow insidious erosion sort of way. We become complacent in our "normal flow." 

We allow complacency to replace our drive to be the best. (Being the best takes extra effort, right?) The negative talk that creeps into our conversations is a product of routine and complacency. 

Yes, routines can be brutal.

New Routines Are Glorious

So how do we transition out of the rut of "bad" routines and get ourselves and our career back on track? Simple...

Commit to changing.

It will take hard work to change your routine. So what? 

It will force you to do new things that you're not ready for. So what?

It will make you nervous and you'll make a mistake or two. So what?

You don't really want to be the long-term cynical employee that everyone smirks about behind your back, do you?

How About You

What's it going to be? Are you going to force yourself, as painful as that sounds, to modify part of your safe routine to be a real leader? Or, is just easier to be the source of the water cooler jokes from the ones who will be leading the way for your company in the future?

 

I'd love to hear from you.

No Excuses.

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