Need Clarity? Ask These Four Questions.

Whether in operating our businesses or running our personal lives, it is not unusual to lose track of the most important things.

When that happens to me, I like to regain my center by asking these four questions:

QUESTION #1: HOW DO YOU SPEND THE MAJORITY OF YOUR TIME AND WHY DO YOU DO IT?

Are the activities you are involved in most of the time related to the results you are trying to achieve?

Management experts point out that much of what we do throughout the day is not directly related to the results we are trying to achieve. As a result, we find ourselves stuck in an activity trap.

We become so intent on doing things right to the nth degree of detail that we fail to do the right things. So thoroughly explore your answers to this question. Write down how you spend your time.

Then check the results against how you want things to be and make any necessary course adjustments.

QUESTION #2: WHAT IS YOUR DEFINITION OF PROSPERITY?

Prosperity to many is only an elusive dream. Perhaps this is because its true meaning is misunderstood or not clearly thought through and then not shared mutually with those most important to us.

Consider that the definition of prosperity is not necessarily answered solely in financial terms. Factors such as interpersonal relationships and spiritual well-being also offer tremendous worth, to name just a couple.

Once you have defined prosperity according to your terms, do a quick check and ensure it harmonizes with your answer to the first question.

QUESTION #3: WHO REALLY CARES ABOUT YOU?

This is the question, if answered candidly, probably has the most significant "shock value" of all the four questions.

Perhaps a few examples of those appearing to care include your creditors, the I.R.S., most employees, and clients. In essence, when all the chips are down, who would really come to your rescue? If your business failed, who would care?

You will likely develop a long list of "those who care" when you first answer this question. However, your list will shorten considerably the more you think about this subject and what the actual answers entail.

QUESTION #4: WHO REALLY MATTERS TO YOU?

Who are the most important people to you, particularly in fulfilling your definition of prosperity? This could include your family members, investors, key executives, business associates, and others.

Just out of curiosity, are the people who matter most to you basically the same ones who care most about you? If not, what needs to change to reconcile the inconsistency?

Explore the answers to these four questions openly and honestly with those you care about and those that matter most. I bet you will have some engaging, thought-provoking, and clarifying discussions!

Thanks for reading!

Russell Anderson

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P.S. I appreciate and respect your investment of precious time to read my work! I strive to provide thought-worthy content that generates a worthwhile return on your investment.