How important is it to be more productive and reduce your stress at work? When I coach leaders to achieve success while working in alignment with their purpose, we use a tool called “So that…”
Choose a project you’re working on and write three to five “So thats”— things that drive you to do your best work for the individuals, groups, and organizations you serve. For example: “I’m writing another book so that: recently promoted managers have a field guide to success in their first 100 days; we have articles for our Website; I think deeply about my coaching practice.”
Continue thinking at three different “sizes” about the project. Do this to be more productive, reduce your stress, and work in alignment with your purpose.
Large Thinking (the WHO): Clearly describe the community and specific reasons they’ll benefit when you’re finished.
Medium Thinking (the WHAT): What is a “rough draft” picture of the deliverable? Describe in detail what it will look, sound, and feel like when the client or community uses it.
Small Thinking (the HOW): Open your calendar and choose (this week) a 75-minute block of time to talk about, plan, and work on that project.
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to thinking through why you do what you do. Use this “So that…” process to think—and work— productively and purposefully.