Putting People First, Stillness, & Deep Work

“Time is the scarcest resource, and unless it is managed, nothing else can be managed”  - Peter Drucker  

This is the seventh post of this quarter as we continue to focus on strengthening "Deep Work" time in building Firewheel momentum. Beginning in March, our discussion will move towards "visioning it true" and the power of putting on paper a vision for and with your team. 

“Stillness is what aims the archer’s arrow. It inspires new ideas. It sharpens perspective and illuminates connections.”
― Ryan Holiday, Stillness is the Key

Putting People First, Routines for Stillness, & Deep Work Processes = Backpack Planning

At what moments are you most still and present to your mind and body? When do you feel most present and in the "flow state" that Deep Work demands? In Stillness is the Key, Ryan Holiday contends that without stillness of the mind, one's ability to create is limited. Powerful daily and weekly calendar routines are essential to stillness. In the same way, Backpack Planning is focused on doing "less" better by holding our attention "still" and allowing us to develop processes that illuminate and excavate depth within our team priorities.

“The reason we are so focused on time management as opposed to energy management is because it’s easier.”

― Alan Watkins, Coherence: The Secret Science of Brilliant Leadership

Putting People First, Energy, & Deep Work

I found this image from Alan Watkins a powerful reminder that our inner self is the major contributor to our actions.The iceberg reminds me a bit of Maslov's Hierarchy of needs for powerful action. Indeed, doing "Deep Work" is nearly impossible without an inner "stillness." As team leaders we have to continuously model and reinforce the role of energy management and self-care in our personal and professional lives. For more thinking, consider Ben Hardy's 100% Rule That Makes Life A Lot Easier. While this may be unreasonable for your personal life (certainly not as much fun), it is a good study for routines in your professional calendar.