Some gnarly tasks and problems require inspiration to be addressed or solved. They are primed for a brand-new solution…if only one came to mind. Without some creative insight or flight of imagination, progress becomes slowed or stalled.
This reminds me of Mark Manson's "Do Something" Principle:
Action > Inspiration > Motivation
The general premise is that even the smallest actions can kickstart the process.
I believe in being biased toward action, and you've highlighted something important here: action should be preceded by intentional thought and direction. Asking questions to inform engagement is the perfect way to do so.
Nov 26, 2023·edited Nov 26, 2023Liked by Admired Leadership
Good morning Josh,
Well said. I like your tweak (personally). I have found the Shewhart Cycle: Plan-Do-Check-Act or Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDCA/PDSA) to be helpful in formulating personal and professional action plans (Deming. 1982).
I came across the book OUT OF THE CRISIS (please keep in mind I'm not an expert) and was recommended to read WORKPLACE MANAGEMENT by Taiichi Ohno by a professor. Both have to do with quality, however I believe they are gems for building a road map and conceptual thinking.
Jim Collins has a list of classics and recommended reading. I turn there when looking at adding to my knowledge and library.
Steven Pressfield discusses in the WAR of ART the importance of the process. We must show up, do our time, and work hard. Then every once in awhile the Muses will grace us (Pressfield. 2002).
Personally, I believe the Greeks were onto something. Regardless of what we believe, this is why falling in love with the process is imperative.
I find inspiration comes faster when there are no limits. Even if there are limits, the act of discussing ideas and thoughts, no matter how crazy they are, can help prompt more realistic ideas.
This reminds me of Mark Manson's "Do Something" Principle:
Action > Inspiration > Motivation
The general premise is that even the smallest actions can kickstart the process.
I believe in being biased toward action, and you've highlighted something important here: action should be preceded by intentional thought and direction. Asking questions to inform engagement is the perfect way to do so.
So, perhaps it should be:
Ask > Act > Inspire > Motivate
Good morning Josh,
Well said. I like your tweak (personally). I have found the Shewhart Cycle: Plan-Do-Check-Act or Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDCA/PDSA) to be helpful in formulating personal and professional action plans (Deming. 1982).
I hope you have a nice weekend.
Thank you for your time.
Thanks, Joe! I’ve heard many great things about Deming’s books and principles and am yet to dig in. Any books in particular you’d recommend?
Good evening Josh,
I came across the book OUT OF THE CRISIS (please keep in mind I'm not an expert) and was recommended to read WORKPLACE MANAGEMENT by Taiichi Ohno by a professor. Both have to do with quality, however I believe they are gems for building a road map and conceptual thinking.
Jim Collins has a list of classics and recommended reading. I turn there when looking at adding to my knowledge and library.
Hope that helps.
Thanks for your time.
Great recommendations - thank you!
Good morning,
Steven Pressfield discusses in the WAR of ART the importance of the process. We must show up, do our time, and work hard. Then every once in awhile the Muses will grace us (Pressfield. 2002).
Personally, I believe the Greeks were onto something. Regardless of what we believe, this is why falling in love with the process is imperative.
Thank you for your time.
I find inspiration comes faster when there are no limits. Even if there are limits, the act of discussing ideas and thoughts, no matter how crazy they are, can help prompt more realistic ideas.