GarthBox

To learn a new language, the starting point is simply that: learn it. Hear it, see it, and, ya know, it’s the 21st century, so type it.

That’s not really enough though for it to stick, however. (Begs the question is if we can call it learning if it’s in one ear and out the other…)

For you to really learn a new language, you have to think in it, not just think of it. If you think about needing to make a left turn at the light – are you doing it in English or in Deutsch?

And you can get stickier, still. Are you engaging others in in the language?

You can guess this doesn’t just go for learning a new language. The system applies to any new idea, methodology, technology, process….

Stay Positive & The Only Question Remains Is How Bad Do You Want To Learn It?

To be a true differentiator, you have to have three variables: it’s unique (as in, most others don’t do it), it’s impactful (you experience results from it), and it’s provable (someone points out the positive impact of it).

Here are a few ideas how to be a differentiator.

For every item that’s of importance to you, set reminders to take action on it, even if that action is merely to keep it top of mind.

Next time someone says something you disagree with, repeat back what they said and explain a benefit of it before offering your alternative suggestion.

If you’re a certification-junkie, have more that relate to your emotional intelligence than your technical expertise.

Of course, there are plenty more you can do. Perhaps rather than doing this it’s worth reflecting at how many differentiators you have today?

Stay Positive & Aim For 3-5 To Put The Difference In Differentiation

It’s not new to think about measuring life by the moments that take our breath away.

It’s new to many to think about seeking those moments out. Proactively. Intentionally.

You know, rather than waiting for life to happen.

The only difference between a boring cup of coffee and an exquisite cup of coffee is often the existence or lack-thereof of focus on it.

Little things having a big impact is all a matter of perspective and intention.

How you choose to look at things matters. Even if it’s just a cup of coffee.

Stay Positive & Time For A Double Take, Huh?

Curious to think about how the opposite of close competition can help you.

What is a brand doing in an industry outside of yours that you can steal?

What does a brand from 20 years from now look like in your mind?

Answers may change or charge the direction you’re going.

Stay Positive & Use It To Your Advantage

Cut to the chase, put the cards on the table, break the ice, rip off the band-aid, face the music, address the elephant in the room.

They are all sayings because they have power.

In short, they all say the same thing: Do the hardest thing first.

Very little gets rewarded more than doing that.

Stay Positive & Consciously AND Subconsciously

Every challenge is an opportunity to learn something new.

For ourselves, it’s trying new things and ensuring we take a moment after succeeding or failing to reflect on what we learned.

For others, it’s more about what it’s not; it’s not doing the challenge for them. It’s not telling them how. It’s not chastising them for not getting it right. It’s not arguing with them. It’s not about redirecting.

Leaders are as successful as the combination of what they learn and what they help others learn.

Stay Positive & Create The Learning Opportunity

There’s two problems at bay if you’re not getting criticized.

The first is the obvious one; the trap many fall into: we don’t do anything worth getting criticized. The solution is just as obvious: do something new, steal from another industry and apply it to yours, ideate against the status quo.

The second is the oft-forgotten one: you’re not asking for criticism.

That team meeting that you had with a prospect, did you ask your team for radical candor right after it? How could you have better contributed?

What about asking folks to point out your weak points on the same map that you have built for the marketing campaign?

How often do you go into a one-on-one with a direct report and ask them for criticism?

Stay Positive & Feedback Is Ripe For Your Taking