(1:03) We've all heard the adage about working hard vs working smart. I've always struggled with that one a bit because I fear some will approach it too simplistically – I don't have to work hard, just smart. It's not an either-or proposition.(0:55) I know how important it is to work hard for success. I also greatly appreciate the idea of focusing that hard work on what's most important to your success and not allowing distractions to intervene.
(0:49) Recently, I ran across a quote that got me thinking. It's from the French author Antoine de Saint-Exupery, "Perfection is achieved not when there is nothing left to add, but when there is nothing left to take away."
(0:42) Finding success in business, and our personal lives, is as much about what we choose not to do, as it is about what we choose to do. It's easy as a business owner to say "yes" to new commitments. I know this only too well. Those first glimmers of success are quickly followed by ever increasing opportunities. It's hard to say "no", especially on the heels of the struggles and sacrifice involved in starting a new business.
(0:27) Every business has limits. The key is knowing the best way to focus your resources whether great or small. There are trade-offs in every decision you make. Do you know when to turn down something good so that you can focus on something great?
(0:18) Steve Jobs said it best, in one of my favorite quotes:
“People think focus means saying yes to the thing you've got to focus on. But that's not what it means at all. It means saying no to the hundred other good ideas that there are. You have to pick carefully. I'm actually as proud of the things we haven't done as the things I have done. Innovation is saying no to 1,000 things.”(0:05) It's the combination of hard work and saying "no" that will bring you success. Choose "no" wisely.
(0:02) And that's the marina minute.
