What Do You REALLY Value? The Next Level

The Entrepreneurial G. A. P.
by Tim Staton
TimStaton.com

Part Two of a Three-Part Discussion

I was riveted when I heard one of my favorite speakers reveal his personal mission statement: “When I die, I want those who have known me the best to love me the most”.  This month we explore what that might look like for you as we get another perspective of what you really value.  WARNING!  If you have not thoughtfully completed the exercise from the March edition of this blog, please STOP!  Go complete the exercise and come back. There is little value to be had from starting here.  You can find the blog entry here.  The impact is in the comparison. 

The Setup.

Depending on your age, you may remember a television game show called “The Newlywed Game”.  Recently married couples were asked to answer questions independent of their spouses.  The questions were to be answered in a “how do you think your spouse would answer” format.  The reason it was not the “Old Married Couples Game” is because, theoretically, over time we get to know one another better (let’s just go with that theory).  Who are the people that know you the best?  Whose opinion (of you) matters to you?  If you have employees, at least one or two of them should make this list.  The value of this exercise depends on a few factors:

1. I would recommend a sampling of between three and six people.
2. The level of trust you have created with these people.
3. The way you “tee-up” the exercise.

The Request.

One on one and face to face is the best way to approach your list. Explain ONLY that you are participating in an exercise and that you need their honest responses.  Saying please here won’t hurt.   Respect the wishes of anyone who feels that they should not participate.  Provide those who agree to assist you with the questions below and an envelope in which to return the responses. Complete this part of the exercise inside of a three day window.

The Questions.

(Please write your list or narratives below the questions)

1. What do you think makes me (or would make me) angry? 
2. What do you think I fear the most?
3. What do you think makes me (or would make me) happy and content?

When you receive their responses, do not open the envelopes until you are alone. Please do not review their answers (or your own answers) in their presence.  Thank them for their willingness to assist you.  In order to close the loop with them you may want to direct them to the original exercise here.  We will discuss these results and a “so what” follow through in the final blog in this series next month.

Tim Staton is an author, coach, public speaker and “change” agent.  Connect with him and share your experience at https://www.facebook.com/timstatondotcom