Can you get things done?... or do you prefer to procrastinate!
Execution is the art of getting things done...
Execution in business was brilliantly described by Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan in their book, The Discipline of Getting Things Done. They argue that execution is a discipline, a process, a systematic way of exposing reality and acting on it. They explained that it is of paramount importance that a business leader knows how to execute well. One must always be asking how and what—one must ask questions and be accountable. One must be able to understand the business environment and the organization’s capability. Part of executing, they argue, means having the business leader master three key roles: selecting the right people, setting the strategic direction, and coordinating operations. Execution needs to be a core part of the company culture; it needs to be the norm, with all employees on board.
I have missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I have lost almost 300 games. On 26 occasions I have been entrusted to take the game-winning shot, and I missed. I have failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” —Michael Jordan
Execution is a process; it is not a one-time event. Jordan’s persistence, his willingness to succeed no matter the obstacle, and his relentless drive are all levers of high-performance execution. Happiness resides in this moment of the highest level of execution. The average person has a heavyweight pulling them down, and execution does not come naturally to them. In order to master the art of execution, they must have a drive, a passion, for doing whatever task is needed to excel. Execution creates motion in a positive direction to accomplish one’s goal. High performers are notorious for raising their standards along with their goals. Why just become a nurse when you can become a doctor? Why just be a good father when you can be the best dad? This highest standard is a hallmark of high performers. They do not settle for just being average; they are constantly raising the bar. This process creates excellence.
Your current body reflects your standard. If you do not have the body you desire— muscular, healthy, and in the best shape it can possibly be—then you have not raised your standard high enough. This continuous improvement is the process of execution.
What we can control is our performance and our execution, and that’s what we’re going to focus on. —Bill Belichick
Execution is the fundamental tool for every successful individual.