We read a blog post the other day by Seth Godin titled “Easy vs Do-able vs Impossible“. When it comes to setting goals and expectations we’re not seeing anyone try for the impossible which is a good thing, but sadly we rarely see anyone or any organization trying for the do-able. What we see from the masses, if they even have a goal or expectation, is an attempt for the easy.
Why are people so afraid of the do-able? Are you afraid of the do-able? Seth said in his blog, “if it’s easy, it’s not worth doing”. You need to ask yourself, if I’m doing the easy then what is my worth?
- Easy is habit-based, meaning anyone can do it. This is why most organizations and employees go for the easy. It’s the safe bet and if you’re really good at doing the easy, then one day you just might become the best of the worst!
- Do-able is talent-based, meaning if you have a talent for it, you can do it. Do-able requires holding people accountable and holding yourself accountable. It requires managers to match talents to task. It requires leaving the comfort zone of the status quo. Do-able isn’t easy but the payoff is huge. The do-able employee is extremely valuable. The do-able organization is in the top 10% of its industry.
- Impossible is idiot-based. It’s just a waste of time. Watch American Idol and you’ll see a few of these impossible dreamers.
What are you able to do? Why aren’t you doing it?
