What results have to be achieved to make a difference?
One question has to be asked to decide “What should I contribute?” “Where and how can I have results that make a difference?” The answer to this question has to balance a number of things. Results should be hard to achieve. They should require “stretching,” to use the present buzzword. But they should be within reach. To aim at results that cannot be achieved—or can be achieved only under the most unlikely circumstances—is not being “ambitious.” It is being foolish. At the same time, results should be meaningful. They should make a difference. And they should be visible and, if at all possible, measurable.
The decision about “What should my contribution be?” balances three elements. First comes the question: ” What does the situation require?” Then comes the question: “How could I make the greatest contribution, with my strengths, my way of performing, my values, to what needs to be done?” Finally, there is the question: “What results have to be achieved to make a difference?” This then leads to the action conclusions: what do do, where to start, how to start, what goals and deadlines to set.
ACTION POINT: Define results for your position that will make a difference. How can you make the greatest contribution based upon your strengths? Establish goals and set deadlines for them.
Management Challenges for the 21st Century
* Source: The Daily Drucker by Peter F. Drucker