I have observed that successful people are, without exception, people who possess the ability to get things done. They seem to perform best under impossible conditions and in the face of insurmountable obstacles. Success is in their ability to organize other people and tasks for maximum results. This is the art of being a high performing, results-oriented person. The ability to articulate a clear end result while neutralizing the obstacles and interference will catapult you to leadership status in any organization. More importantly, great things will be accomplished and new records set.
Bulldogs are viewed as symbols of winning because they do not let anything get in the way of what they want. Like the bulldog, here are four traits required for getting things done in challenging situations.
- Courageously declare your intended objective. What are you aiming for? Can you see the end and explain it in simple concise terms? You lay a good foundation for getting things accomplished by clearing away the clutter and noise. If you are not capable or willing to hold yourself and others accountable to a clearly stated goal you are at risk of getting distracted and falling short.
- Dominate the process and events in the path of your target. Taking charge of situations is critical at all times. This requires the confidence to control the things and people who impact the fulfillment of your objective. If you are willing to take responsibility for an objective, surely you will be responsible enough to be fully engaged and focused on getting people and resources where you need them to be.
- Develop a dynamic tolerance for pain. You will not always be liked and you will be misunderstood most of the time. This will be painful. People who get things done have to develop tough skin. If your goal is to win the popularity contest, I advise you reconsider your decision to be the leader. Results-oriented people are driven more by what’s best for the group or organization and less by popularity.
- Motivate with unforgettable rewards. Rewards must be meaningful, immediate and connected to the accomplishment of the stated objective. The best possible situation is to commit to an objective that, when achieved, will be in itself the ultimate reward. The objective or reward must be personal and it must be self-selected. It has to grab your imagination and sense of pride when done. This is important for you personally and for each person on your team.