Simplify. I think that might be one of the words that I remember the pandemic by (that and chocolate). Or at least today that is how I am feeling. It can be a moment-by-moment adventure!
I have this persistent visual that life right now is going through a sieve and only what is essential remains.
Last year I read the book “Essentialism: The disciplined Pursuit of Less” by Greg McKeown and I loved it and it stuck with me. The tagline for the book could not be more apt for the times.
The crux of his work is not about doing more with less, it is actually about asking yourself if what you are spending your time and resources on is the “right” thing. We can remove a lot of overwhelm if we stop trying to do it all, stop saying yes every time and instead concentrate on doing the right things. Taking a “less but better” approach.
And to get to what is essential we rely on our purpose.
Our purpose becomes the sieve through which all of our options can sift. What is our genius work? What does matter to us? How can we do what matters to us and to others?.
It is a mindful way to live life and to do business.
Over this last month I have in many different voices asked myself “what does matter?” And on the more insightful days, usually when I am out walking Stella I might be able to come up with an answer. I then have to push myself further and say, “okay, now that I know what does matter, do that.” (Maybe it’s Stella who inspires me she always knows what matters – sticks!)
One of my favourite quotes from the book:
“Whatever decision or challenge or crossroads you face in your life, simply ask yourself, ‘What is essential?’ Eliminate everything else.”
As we move forward businesses will be tried, and it will not be an easy road. We will have to zone in on our “essential” by knowing what matters most to us, and to others, and to have the courage to “do that”.
This pandemic has required us to eliminate much, to purge more than just our closets.
Perhaps it has also helped us to embrace the simplicity of the essential. That we can manage and thrive focused on the right things, one piece at a time.
If you are looking to get clear on your purpose to grow your business and enrich your life let’s chat.
