It is much easier to be a critic than a creator; easier to respond and react than to innovate and initiate; easier to correct and follow than to map and lead.
Opinions flow freely from the comfort of the cheap seats, where no investment in the possibilities of the future is required.
Charting new territory — innovating, establishing relationships and creating solutions — requires exposure . . . an out-there investment of blood, sweat and tears that is easy to second guess.
Tune Out The Negative. Tune In To The Potential of Why Not
To clarify, we’re not talking about the discipline and skill set that analyzes, tests and calibrates. We’re talking about the perspective that consistently views the glass as half empty.
Leaders know there is a difference between problem identification and problem solving.
The former is a never-ending proposition. To the degree it masquerades as acumen, analysis or even leadership, it may be good for job security, but it is death to progress. The danger in naming all that is wrong is that too often this process (or habit) morphs into an agenda.
On the other hand, those who chart new territory cultivate and nurture a different perspective — opportunistic, tenacious, and glass-at-least-half-full. Robert F. Kennedy’s famous quote captures the attitude.
“Some men see things as they are and say ‘why.’ I dream things that never were, and say ‘why not’.”
Any one working on the creation or implementation of a strategy is familiar with the tug-of-war between “why” and “why not.” The tension is real. Not every opportunity is worthy of resources, much less all out pursuit.
But given the stalemate on so many fronts in today’s marketplace, what we might need is fewer critics, less chatter from the cheap seats, and more leaders willing to chart a new course . . . and invest in the authentic pursuit of solution.
And, if progress is slow, your personal business development strategy may be the ideal place to begin.