Consistency and Intensity in Career Advancement

I read an article recently about how success is connected to consistency. That got me thinking about my journey to-date. That journey has involved living and working in places like Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, and now the USA; progressing through large and small businesses, and also performing at a high level as an internationally competitive athlete (rugby). I write about this not to tout my history - far from it; I'm not that kind of person - but only to exclaim that success DOES come from consistency of your actions. Success is a journey that requires dedication, and more importantly, consistency. It's not about sporadic bursts of effort; rather, it's about what you do day in and day out. That mindset builds character and an inner-resiliency. In a world where we often seek quick fixes and instant gratification, it's essential to remind ourselves that lasting success is built over time. While occasional moments of brilliance can certainly be stepping stones (and should be celebrated BTW!), it's the persistent, consistent actions that truly pave the way to achievement. One of the virtues of consistency is that it instills discipline in your daily routine. As a former athlete, did I want to keep getting up early to train and put in the "hard yards"? No but I had a desire and a drive to excel (still do!). Did I want to work long days and '8-day' weeks? No but I knew that my consistency-of-effort would prevail. Just as money grows exponentially when invested consistently, so do your skills, knowledge, and results. Whether you're trying to build a successful career, develop a talent, or lead a healthier life, consistent efforts accumulate and yield remarkable results over time. In our fast-paced world, we often forget that success is not an overnight event. It's a marathon that requires sustained effort. Consistency keeps you in the race when others drop out due to burnout or impatience. It's about maintaining the pace, staying focused on your goals, and never giving up. If I may proffer some practical tips I use for fostering consistency: - Set clear, achievable goals (personal and professional). - Create a daily system or weekly routine. - Celebrate victories always; self-reflect on errors but don't stay there long. - Find your motivation. Success doesn't come from the occasional extraordinary feat; it's the result of the small, consistent actions you take each day. #Success #Consistency #Achievement #HardWork #Discipline

I've got something on my mind I'd love to share with you all. We all have this image of success as a flashy, one-time event, right? Like, you only have to hit it big once, then it's smooth sailing from there. But the truth is, it really doesn't work that way. Success is all about consistency and the daily grind. Now, I know what you're thinking. It's hard to keep pushing when you're not seeing those big, immediate results. But let me tell you why those little, daily actions are so important: 1. Momentum: Consistency is like a snowball rolling down a hill. It might start off small, but the more it rolls, the bigger and faster it gets. The same goes for your efforts. Those small, consistent actions generate big momentum over time. 2. Credibility: When you're consistent with your actions, people start to take notice. They see that you're not just all talk – you're seriously committed to your goals. This builds trust and credibility, and that's incredibly valuable. 3. Learning: Each action you take, each decision you make, comes with a lesson. Sometimes, the results are great. Other times, it's a misstep. But even those mistakes are valuable because they teach you something new. Consistency gives you the chance to learn, grow, and become better. 4. Progress: Success isn't about making huge leaps; it's about moving one step closer to your goals every single day. Even if the progress seems slow, remember that every step counts. 5. Habit Formation: When we repeat something consistently, it becomes a habit. And once it's a habit, you no longer need to rely on fleeting motivation to get it done. It's just a part of your routine. So, here's the deal. If you're ready to be successful, you've got to keep pushing. Keep learning. Keep growing. Embrace the grind and the power of consistency. It may not be as glamorous as those one-off 'hero' moments, but I promise you it's so much more powerful. Are you ready to trade in the flash-in-the-pan for the slow and steady race? If so, let's start prioritizing consistency. It's not always easy, but it's definitely worth it.

Don't boil the ocean Consistency is greater than intensity ALL "achievements" were once a series of small, consistent steps. Intensity burns out; consistency pays out. Consistency trumps intensity This isn't an empty platitude; it's a scientifically backed success strategy. James Clear's "Atomic Habits" delves deep into why tiny changes make a big difference. The compound effect of daily habits, no matter how small, leads to staggering results over time. Here are some points to consider that changed how I live and work: 📈 Consistency compounds: Just like compound interest, small habitual investments in your goals grow exponentially, not linearly. 🧠 Neural pathways strengthen: When you're consistent, your brain solidifies the circuitry associated with the task, making proficiency and success more attainable. 🛠 Skill over intensity: Intense efforts can lead to burnout. Consistency builds skill sets and resilience that last. Here's how I build them in to my day to day: - Start Small: Choose habits that are so easy you can't say no. Ensure you can perform them even on your worst day. - Increase Slowly: Gradual improvements are sustainable. Don't rush; trust the process of incremental growth. - Stay Accountable: Track your habits. What gets measured, gets managed. Embrace the Plateaus: Growth is not always linear. Plateaus can be periods of important learning and adjustment. - Build a System: Systems ensure your environment is primed for your success, nudging you towards your habits every day. Remember, the race is long, and in the end, it's only with yourself. Who you are becoming is more important than where you end. Stay awesome. And Stay Supered

RECRUITERS REGULARLY ASK ME 'What is the one piece of advice you'd give to someone who wants to be successful?' My answer is always the same. CONSISTENCY No matter what your goal is, if you're not consistent with the activities that you know will enable you to achieve that goal, you will not achieve it. Over the past 12 months I've taken my marathon time from 4:16 down to 3:35 and it's purely down to consistency. I know that if put in a consistent level of training and volume per week, in time I will become a stronger, faster and a more confident runner. I never miss a training run unless I physically can't do it. The same can be said about recruitment. if you're a £150k year biller and you have aspirations of becoming a £300k biller, you need to understand what activity you need to do every single day/week that will enable you to achieve that goal. If you regularly turn up every single day and achieve that activity, whether it be business development, headhunting, presenting etc, you will become a more confident, competent, higher performing consultant. But it's one thing about knowing what you need to do and another thing to actually 'do it'. That's the hard part. Because as humans we naturally don't want to do the things that we don't like to do or are not good at yet. And we have a tendency to stop doing the activity when we don't see instant results. However, Rome wasn't built in a day. Recruitment is a long term career, not a get rich quick scheme. To be successful long term and achieve your goals you have to regularly turn up, even when you don't want to. You have to be consistent. And if you are.... You'll be amazed at what you're capable of achieving long term. Do you agree? #recruitment #recruiters #techrecruitment #recruiting #goals #motivation #consistency #progression #careers

Here’s a straightforward and effective strategy to propel your career forward: Step 1: Master the Art of Precision in Delivery Begin with the core responsibility: delivering on expectations with precision. Excellence in your work forms the bedrock of trust and reliability. It's about ensuring that your output not only meets but also aligns with anticipated outcomes. This step is crucial, as it establishes your reputation as a dependable and competent professional. Step 2: The Power of Adding a Little Extra Once you've mastered the art of delivering with precision, elevate your game by adding just a little more to your efforts – aim for an additional 5%. This isn't about overextending to the point of burnout, it's about integrating a marginal yet impactful enhancement to your work. Whether it's through added creativity, a deeper level of analysis, or simply going a step further in your service, this slight increase can significantly differentiate you from your peers. It’s the extra mile that’s less traveled and it yields disproportionate rewards. Think of it as a dinner mint with your meal - nothing huge from a cost perspective, but it certainly can move the needle and push a good experience over the edge, to greatness. Step 3: Embrace the Cycle of Continuous Improvement The journey of career advancement is ongoing. Thus, 'rinse and repeat' becomes your mantra. Consistency in delivering quality work, coupled with the habit of always providing just a bit more, becomes a powerful cycle of improvement. Each iteration not only enhances your skills and value but also solidifies your position as a standout professional in your field. Advancing in your career is not about the grand gestures but often about the subtle, consistent efforts that accumulate over time. How will you add that extra 5% to your next project?

Persistence, Consistency, and Creativity: Thriving in a Tough Job Market (Speaking of persistence and creativity, ChatGPT was down this morning, and Perplexity.ai was helpful 😂) In today's job market, the competition is fierce, and it can be disheartening to see the statistics reflecting the challenges we face. According to LinkedIn's latest employment market report, there has been a 27% year-on-year rise in applications per application. Additionally, the Technology, Information, and Media industry has experienced a significant decline of nearly 40% compared to July 2022, making it one of the hardest-hit sectors. However, it is during these tough times that our true character is revealed. As James Lane Allen wisely said, "Adversity does not build character, it reveals it." Instead of letting these statistics discourage us, let them ignite a fire within us to be better, to push harder, and to rise. Here are some key points to remember and actions to take to navigate the tough job market: 1. Embrace Persistence - Understand that success rarely comes overnight. It takes time, effort, and perseverance. - Keep applying for jobs, even if the competition is fierce. Each application is an opportunity, and you never know when the right opportunity will come knocking. - Network actively and reach out to professionals in your desired field. Building connections can open doors and lead to unexpected opportunities. 2. Maintain ConsistencyDevelop a routine and stick to it. - Consistency in your job search efforts will yield better results over time. - Set achievable goals and break them down into smaller tasks. Celebrate each milestone you reach, no matter how small. - Continuously update and improve your skills. Take online courses, attend webinars, or join professional organizations to stay relevant in your industry. 3. Cultivate Creativity - Think outside the box and explore alternative career paths or industries that may have better prospects. - Showcase your creativity in your job applications and interviews. - Highlight unique experiences, projects, or skills that set you apart from other candidates. - Consider freelancing, consulting, or starting your own business. These options can provide flexibility and opportunities for growth. Remember, it's not about the ease of the journey; it's about the growth and resilience we develop along the way. In my personal experience, seeking help and guidance when I was feeling stuck or overwhelmed played a crucial role in my success. Leveraging coaching at different phases of life allowed me to land a new job, embark on a solo backpacking trip around the world, write a children's book, and even launch my own coaching business. So, let's embrace the challenges, stay persistent, consistent, and creative. Let's use this adversity as an opportunity to reveal our true character and achieve our goals. "Adversity does not build character, it reveals it." - James Lane Allen

Consistency showing up every day is the key to results. Especially on the days you don't feel like it. I didn't feel like doing heavy leg day today, but I did it anyway. And that's how I can lift more than most of my friends, who are even 60 lbs heavier than me. It’s not about a single workout, but rather the cumulative effect of all those sessions over the years. The parallels to the business world are striking – success isn't achieved overnight. It's the result of showing up every day, ready to tackle the challenges ahead. It’s about being present even when the tasks are daunting or the progress seems slow. Every small task completed, every problem solved, every project finished contributes to the larger goal. Consistency in effort, focus, and attitude builds a successful career and a thriving business. So, whether it’s lifting weights or leading meetings, remember that consistency and discipline are superpowers. Show up, do your best, and see your efforts compound over time. 

It's that time again. The dreaded annual performance review. Annual performance reviews are undeniably ineffective. (Yes, I’m an “HR person” putting a nail in the coffin of an activity that’s been our swan-song for eons….)    Survey after notable survey have reported that nearly every manager AND employee questioned believe that annual performance reviews weren’t effective or useful.    My friends, the traditional process is flawed.    Why?    First, the traditional review process focuses on the past rather than the future. This backward-looking conversation has shown to demotivate employees. (And, who really remembers what they did 11 months ago!? Raise your hand if you’ve reviewed your calendar from the past 12-months to remember what you did and accomplished? 🙋♀️)    So, how do you hold staff accountable while avoiding a cumbersome (and demoralizing) conversation?    Here’s the deal -    Employees prefer consistent, timely feedback to address roadblocks, receive recognition, and build a foundation of trust with their leaders. That’s why a less formal, more consistent approach to performance management benefits employee, team, and business success.    So, what should the process be?     1. 𝗠𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗵𝗹𝘆 𝗢𝗻𝗲-𝗼𝗻-𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀  These informal meetings serve as an opportunity to recognize employees for their hard work, assess roadblocks, and coach performance. Regular one-on-ones help managers evaluate results as they come, not months later. That way, you can correct ineffective processes before they become a habit.    2. 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸-𝗶𝗻𝘀  Quarterly checks are a great supplement to your one-on-one opportunities. These can be more formal.    3. 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗻𝘂𝗼𝘂𝘀, 𝘁𝘄𝗼-𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸  This enables both employees and managers to ask for feedback. Not only does this make employees feel like their opinions matter, but it gives managers the insight they need to improve the employee experience and grow as a leader. In addition, your employees will be more likely to accept feedback without hesitation when it goes both ways.    4. 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀  Career development conversations help employees and managers align on the future. These conversations allow managers to recognize employee talent. When you show an employee that they are valued, you’ll be able to bring out their full potential.    The war for talent is real. It’s critical for leaders to establish a routine where expectations are clear, direct feedback is delivered real-time, and career development is actively supported.    How do you review your employees? And as an employee, how would you like to be reviewed?

Consistency, the steady rhythm of persistent effort, often outweighs the sporadic bursts of intense activity in the realm of work and achievement. While intensity can fuel short-term gains, it's the unwavering commitment to showing up day after day that truly propels us towards our long-term goals. Think of it as the tortoise and the hare tale—a classic reminder that slow and steady wins the race. In the workplace, consistency breeds reliability and trust, laying the foundation for sustainable success. When colleagues and clients know they can count on you to deliver consistent results, it builds credibility and fosters strong relationships. Moreover, consistency cultivates discipline, a fundamental trait of high achievers. It's about showing up even when motivation wanes, and pushing through resistance with unwavering determination. Think of it as honing a craft; each day's effort, no matter how small, contributes to the gradual mastery of skills and the refinement of expertise. In a world where instant gratification often tempts us to seek quick fixes, consistency reminds us of the timeless adage: "Rome wasn't built in a day." Furthermore, consistency fosters a growth mindset—an understanding that progress is a journey, not a destination. By embracing the process and committing to incremental improvements, we cultivate resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges. It's not about perfection, but rather the relentless pursuit of progress. So, while intensity may dazzle momentarily, it's consistency that illuminates the path to enduring success, one step at a time. Remember, greatness is not achieved overnight—it's the result of consistent, intentional effort over time. #ConsistencyWins #SteadyProgress #RelentlessPursuit

Have you ever wondered what high-performing organizations do to achieve great results over time? Or ever have that nagging feeling that your organization's performance is spotty and could be better? This week I'm going to reveal four principles that you can immediately apply to help you improve your organization's performance and results. All four center on what your customers and employees crave: CONSISTENCY Inconsistency leads to randomness and chaos. If that's your jam, keep spreading it. Just know that your more consistent competitors will pass you by, if they haven't done so already. And your employees are getting tired of it. So here is the first of four Relentless Consistency Principles: Relentless Consistency Principle #1 – Your individual results will never exceed the consistency of your efforts. Whether you are part of a large organization or are a solopreneur, the key to your success depends on the consistency of your efforts. Mastery of your job can only be gained through consistent efforts. You have to put in the reps.   Inconsistent efforts will hold you back. They kill momentum, delay progress, and foster mediocrity each time you slow down or stop. Most people pause or give up in the early stages of a project or venture when they face setbacks or struggle to gain their footing. They cave to the perceived enormity of the task rather than focusing just on consistently putting one foot in front of the other. They lose all momentum and prior ground gained. Some time later they try again because they know they should. But without a change in mindset about consistency and persistence, they inevitably give up again. Don't be like *most people.* To be high performing, prioritize personal consistency.  __________________________ I'm on a mission to show leaders, owners, and their teams how to become the best versions of themselves by rooting out mediocrity in their businesses. I post daily on reaching peak operational performance. I call it PeakOps. If you're serious about leading your organization to greater heights, ring the bell, follow me, and join the conversation. If you're not serious about improving your organization's performance, move along, there's nothing to see here. 😉