Focus + Accountability = Results
Have you ever watched a surgeon at work, a cyclist racing in the Tour de France, or an NFL place-kicker shooting the winning field goal? One thing they all have in common is that nothing distracts their intense focus or takes them out of their zone. We must master our ability to focus and take intentional action. When we do, we will achieve our greatest, most fulfilling accomplishments.
I have found that top performers have an intentional focus, a purposeful action, and they allow themselves to be accountable. This combination drives them towards results that many people only dream of achieving. Along my journey I have encountered amazing people who have a desire to achieve more; however, they have adopted merely average performance habits and they have become complacent about their own mediocrity. In order to break through to the next level, we must each make a choice to focus on that one outcome we most desire. Experience has proven it is important to use a simple and powerful tool that will bring clarity to the vision and virtually guarantee the outcome. This is the first step, and it is a step worth taking.
As a consultant to Real Estate Agents within Keller Williams Realty, I use a tool we refer to as the Strategic Planning Model or G.P.S. (Goal, Priorities, and Strategies). Gary Keller, the company founder, developed a tool that allows us to determine the exact steps of a clear path that will ultimately create new daily habits. This tool inspires our realtors to take action immediately. I find that when they see a clear picture of what they must do, they become laser focused and then take the intense action needed to propel toward their goal. We hold regular and consistent training sessions in which we explain, demonstrate, and support this amazing powerful tool.
The feedback from our realtors has been breathtaking. They have shared how this Strategic Planning Model has actually created results not only in business but also personally. Bryan Gwynn, Top Producing Agent with Keller Williams Realty, said, “My GPS Strategic Plan has created a clear picture of exactly what it will take for me to become a top producing agent within the National Association of Realtors”.
The Strategic Planning Model consists of five sections:
1 – What is your one desired outcome?
3 – What are three strategies that will aid in achieving the outcome?
5 – What are five tactics to implement each strategy?
3 – What are three possible obstacles that may interrupt achieving the outcome?
1 – What is one proactive solution to eliminate or reduce each obstacle?
One may use the Strategic Planning Model annually, monthly, or even weekly. See our Process of the Month, Achieving Rock and Role Results for a completed example. It is effective for both big plans or for a one-time project. Anytime a desired goal or outcome appears, one can implement this model and select an accountability partner for support. This model is also effective in developing a team or company objective. In such a situation, the Strategy is best used when one Worksheet has been completed for the company or team communicated to all of the employees prior to each employee’s creation of his/her own. We refer to this as the “Rock and Role” concept. The “Rock” represents the one big company goal, and the “Role” represents each employee’s part in achieving the overall company objective.
Once an outcome is clearly defined, focus and action become the natural extension. In our organization, we have an accountability system we refer to as our “Battle Buddy” system. This system allows for weekly meetings and daily communication between two members who are supporting each other. Each week, we have a face-to-face meeting to discuss our successes, our areas to improve, and our individual accountability each has to action. The daily interaction is an update on our productivity efforts that is communicated by e-mail. This system is exciting because we share our successes together each day.
Take a moment to think of an aspect of your life that requires focused action to achieve the results you want. There is no judgment in this process. Hobbies, sports, work activities, and extracurricular interests are all valid sources for your choice. What does your environment look like? What are your behaviors, your emotions, your thoughts, and your triggers when you are in this “intensity zone?” Now, how will you bring this same focus and degree of intense action to your habits every workday? What will be your routine, your system, and your triggers to help you get into your “zone?”
With Practice, you will master the use of the Strategic Planning Model and the steps involved will become your systematic approach to higher achievement. You may find that your best outcomes are realized when you partner with a peer, or, better yet, when you work with a productivity coach to hold you accountable to achieve your desired outcome. Constantly remind yourself to “JFDI – Just Focus and do it!”
This article was contributed by Rapport Leadership International's new Director of Business Development, Jason Lindstrom. Jason Lindstrom was born and raised in Sacramento, California. He married his beautiful wife, Masie, at 18 years of age and now has a family of 5. Daughters Makayla (12), Courtney (5), and LeAnn (3) complete his family. Jason’s family is very important to him.
In May of 1991, Jason joined the United States Army as an Infantryman. He served for nine years and nine months in various places: Ft. Benning, Georgia, Ft. Lewis, Washington, Germany, and Ft. Carson, Colorado. During these days of military life, Jason built a great passion for personal growth, training, and team leadership. While in military service, he was able to complete nearly three years of college education and he began working to complete his degree in business administration.
In May of 2000, Jason transitioned into the real estate industry and received his license to become a realtor in Colorado. Jason has spent the last eight years as a successful real estate agent, team leader, business owner, and General Manager, working in the states of Nevada and Utah with Keller Williams Realty. Recently, he made the life-changing decision to join our executive team at Rapport Leadership International as our Director of Business Development. He has continued to receive various awards and recognitions for his ability to develop companies, increase productivity, and foster a business culture.
Jason and his family enjoy the outdoors: boating, camping, hiking, and more. He enjoys reading, learning, and attending trainings that stretch him. The greatest compliment that he continually receives is that he has a true belief in others; many times he believes in others more than they believe in themselves.
