3 Things For January 3rd, 2025
Should I do the thing?, Your Why!, Don’t work together…🤓
Obligations and Commitments Abound
Should I do the thing??
I hate doing what I don’t want to do. I’m selfish(ish). I want to enjoy every second of every day. Regrettably, no matter how much I wish otherwise, I don’t enjoy working out….and a host of other necessary tasks. We all know there are some things we just have to do. But, other things, many things, we do – but should we be doing them?
Here are my rules:
1. Do I want to do the thing? If yes, then I do it. If no then I ask:
2. Will I be happy I did it when it’s over? If yes, then I do it. If no, then I don’t do it.
I created these rules to solve the cognitive burden of obligations – the things on my calendar that I didn’t want to do. At one point I did want them on my calendar but when they no longer served me, I couldn’t uncommit. And, I wasn’t happy about it. I decided that a new year was the perfect time to hold myself accountable to my rules.
Now for the nuance, caveats and more questions:
3. Is it important to someone I love? If yes, then I probably do it.
4. Does it make me better? If yes, then I probably do it.
A general rule of thumb is that I want to be in situations where I feel an expansive energy. I pay attention to how I’m feeling: expansive or constricted. If I’m feeling squeezed, why? Because I also have to own my role in the energy of the environment I’m in. If I’m in a leadership position, I better be bringing the right kind of energy. And, if I’m not in a leadership role, how am I contributing to the betterment (or otherwise) of the energy in the room?
Sometimes, things are hard and we need to do hard things. Hard things make us better. Sometimes, when I’m nervous, I tell myself that my nervousness is really just excitement. Reframing or choosing to see things differently is like a little miracle….all of a sudden that “thing” isn’t the same “thing” anymore.
This year, if I’m doing something I don’t want to do, I’m going to ask my questions and it’s pass/fail. If it fails, it goes! As long as I believe in my questions (and I do), I can ditch the obligation and I can ditch the guilt too.
What is Your Why?
Understanding your “why” is more than just identifying a purpose—it’s the heartbeat of what drives you every day. It’s what pushes you to show up, stay motivated, and work through challenges and obstacles when the going gets tough. Your “why” is personal, often tied to your passions, values, and goals, and it can transform the way you approach your life, career, and business.
For some, their “why” is rooted in helping others grow or giving back to their communities. For instance, many of us in digital marketing find joy in helping small businesses succeed because we believe they are the backbone of thriving neighborhoods. The ability to amplify someone’s story and see their dreams come to life is a powerful motivator. Ask yourself: What makes you excited to start your day? Why do you enjoy the work you do?
Once you identify your “why,” pairing it with a mantra can help you stay grounded and focused. A mantra is a short, meaningful phrase that reflects your purpose and guides your mindset. As a high school coach, I am often cheering for my athletes using those mantras! Reminding them to put trust in themselves and their teammates, as well as reminding them that I believe in them and the endless possibilities ahead.
If your “why” is to help small businesses grow, a mantra like “Every story matters” can remind you to approach each client with care and creativity. Mantras act as a daily anchor, helping you realign with your goals even during stressful moments.
I invite you to take a moment and reflect on your own “why” and create a mantra that resonates with you. Write it down and keep it somewhere visible—on your desk, your phone, or even your bathroom mirror! When you align your purpose with meaningful action, you’ll find not just success but fulfillment in everything you do.
Cheers to a Happy New Year!
Meaghan McCluskey
(253) 503-0328
meaghan@strategy3degrees.com
Wanna Build a Great Team? Don’t Work Together!
This may sound counterintuitive, but workless meetings (where you talk about anything and everything except work) can drastically improve the workplace. Here are 3 reasons why:
It Promotes a Culture of Collaboration
When people actually connect on a personal level and not just in a work context, we see each other as more than just our roles. By sharing stories, hobbies, or weekend plans, everyone learns each other’s talents and interests that may lay beyond the scope of their roles. It makes it easier to leverage strengths, build connections, and create a culture where asking for help feels natural and comfortable. It’s always easier to ask a friend for help than a stranger.
It Boosts Mental Health and Emotional Well-Being
Workdays can be stressful, it’s one of the few constants in life. Giving the team a sorely needed breather to take a step back from work creates the opportunity for everyone to bond over shared experiences or personal interests without repercussion. Breaks like these act as mental resets, reducing stress and offering a space for socializing. Providing a 30 minute oasis at work lets people return to work refreshed, enhancing focus and overall mental health.
It Increases Creativity and Problem-Solving Ability
Having a moment away where you don’t need to think about work boosts creativity and problem-solving by giving the brain a chance to rest and recharge. It lets you reframe your thoughts, think about them in a different way, and find new solutions. Everyone goes back to their desks with fresh eyes and fresh ideas.
Don’t just take our word for it. The University of Illinois found that socialization during rest periods lowers decision fatigue, Harvard found that short breaks boost creativity and lower stress. Teams that take regular breaks produce higher-quality work faster. Carving out just 30 minutes a week for workless meetings can transform your workplace. These seemingly “unproductive” sessions are actually powerhouses of positive change. So what are you waiting for?
Schedule the conference room!
Scott Fultz
(253) 503-0328
scott@strategy3degrees.com