Actionable Books

Good to Great

Published by Collins Business

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The Stockdale Paradox is the ability of a leader to maintain an unwavering sense of confidence in the potential of the mission, while simultaneously facing, head on, the challenges in front of him.  This workshop addresses that dichotomy.

This workshop is great for the teams at the extreme ends of the spectrum -  overconfident or  underconfident.  Also good for the highly distracted member who takes on everything and wants to be a part of everything.  Helps with focus on maximizing effectiveness.

Exercise Overview

1 Lecture (10 minutes)   |   “The Stockdale Paradox”

A recap of the article, as well as definition of The Stockdale Paradox and an explanation of it’s importance.

2 Solo Exercise (20 minutes)  | “Defining Your 3 Circles”

Reviewing all current activities as they fit within Collins’ “Hedgehog Concept”.  The purpose is to determine which activities are benefiting our natural strengths and which should be eliminated.

3 Solo & Discussion (5 minutes)   |   “It’s a Small World”

One aspect of the Hedgehog concept is that you should only pursue an endeavour if you have the ability to be the best in “the world”.  This exercise is about defining your world.

4 Solo Exercise (10 minutes)   |   “Intelligent BHAGs”

Big Hairy Audacious Goals are aggressive but founded on reason, not bravado.  We examine, tweak and set our BHAGs in this exercise.

5 Wrap Up Discussion (10 minutes)   | “Why Greatness?”

Discussing the idea that if you ask, “isn’t this good enough?” you’re not in the right field.  Peopl produce greatness because they want to, not because they feel some obligation.

Key Deliverables

Staff members completing this workshop will have a better sense of prioritization and focus in their activities.  They will also have a grounded sense of ambition; working towards big things because they’re working in the environment ideally suited to their personal brand of greatness.

This 50 minute workshop requires no additional materials beyond the standard Pen, Paper, Whiteboard and Markers.  This is a stand alone workshop, and no additional followup work is required.