Three Minute Leadership: The Value of Opposite Perspectives
To: The Great Leaders Who Have a Passion for Continuous Learning
In their book, The Power of Full Engagement, James E. Loehr and Tony Schwartz share their thoughts with great leaders about how to achieve their optimal levels of performance. One fact at the heart of their teaching is the belief that “energy, not time, is the fundamental currency of optimal performance.” Simon Sinek, however, sees both time and energy as equals: “Time and energy. Those are the most valuable sacrifices leaders can make.” Two different perspectives, yet both speak of the same two elements. No surprise because of their natural linkage – energy is expended in time.
The value of these opposite perspectives is that they give great leaders a moment of pause, a pause to think separately of how their time is being spent, and how they are using their energies in that time. Higher levels of energy, be they physical, mental, spiritual or emotional, produce outstanding results. Energy, therefore, needs to be managed effectively – renewed, expanded in capacity and used decisively. Time, too, requires attention – its prudent use both in focus (e.g. prioritizing, doing, avoiding) and duration. Unlike energy, it is not a renewable resource.
Time and energy are the precious tools in the great leaders’ hands to control. Both are finite. The challenge of great leaders is to maximize both in achieving their optimal level of performance as they achieve their life’s purpose and meaning. May you remembers always the words of Tony Robbins: “Where focus goes, energy flows. And if you don’t take the time to focus on what matters, then you’re living a life of someone else’s design.”
Have a beautiful day and a magnificent week!!!
Mike
