In this expert session, Paul Rulkens, an internationally recognized author and advisor on high performance, shares practical insights on becoming more effective in both personal and professional contexts. Paul begins the discussion by introducing the concept of small differences consistently applied leading to significant improvements, also known as the Razor Edge concept. He outlines three building blocks of high performance: clarity, focus, and execution.
Clarity is crucial in achieving personal and organizational success, according to Paul. He discusses the importance of having a clear vision and connecting with stakeholders to make that vision a reality. Paul then explores the concept of high performance organizations, those capable of consistently achieving big goals with minimal effort, and asks participants to share their perspectives on where they believe their organization falls in terms of high performance.
Paul emphasizes the significance of clearly defining goals for individuals and teams as a means of improving overall performance. He introduces a 30-second goal exercise as an effective tool for clarifying personal goals, revealing what one's subconscious focus is. Paul also suggests using this exercise to test and create alignment among team members during meetings.
Next, Paul discusses the importance of focus and introduces the concept of "the Valley of Death," emphasizing the need to embrace strategic quitting by letting go of non-essential commitments to move forward effectively. He then shares his insights on focusing on the highest and best use of one's time, which can significantly boost productivity and contribute to team success.
Paul also touches upon the significance of passion in achieving high performance as it drives individuals to create value and improve their skills. He shares an example of delegation – giving someone else a task that you find challenging but they excel at, allowing both parties to build on their strengths and ultimately contribute to team success.
Paul encourages focusing on small decisions and habits that can make a significant impact in improving performance, such as managing your inbox separately from your action list, implementing the two-minute rule, and breaking Parkinson's law. By making these changes consistently, individuals and teams can significantly boost their productivity and reach new heights of success.
The session concludes with Paul discussing the seventh habit for high performance: eating your frog. This metaphor encourages individuals to tackle their greatest fear or challenge first thing in the morning, making the rest of the day more productive and enjoyable. Paul emphasizes that facing one's fears leads to progress and success.
Throughout this expert session, Paul covers various aspects of high performance, focusing on the importance of small differences consistently applied, clarifying personal goals, maintaining focus, and executing effectively. He offers a toolkit containing ten powerful tools designed to help individuals and teams become "Unstoppable goal Achievers."
Paul concludes by challenging each attendee to identify their "frog" for the next day and begin implementing this strategy for improved productivity and success.
