Results: The Bottom Line

The measure of success in our business world and indeed our whole society is results. We are driven to accomplish tasks and in many cases strive to accomplish the results regardless of consequences. The reality is that achieving results only comes after dealing with four important principles.

First, we must realize that the great difficulty in life is not getting what we want, but deciding what we want. People change jobs, students change majors, and even couples change partners not knowing what they want and thus not seeing some favorable result. Those focused upon some goal decided have a much better chance at success and a satisfying result.

Next, once a decision is made we must decide what we are willing to give or give up in order to gain what we say we want. We may have to spend time and/or money to get what we want. All possibilities in life come with an opportunity cost. When we choose one direction the resources used cannot be used for a different alternative. In reality, the question becomes, “how much am I willing to give to get what I say I want?”

Thirdly, we must learn to be totally responsible for the outcome at every stage. So often when problems do occur people try to shift blame and find a scapegoat. Then, if there is success they try to take more than their share of the credit. One concept I learned from a former manager is to always give credit and take blame. We exhibit how much we value others when we take this approach. At the very least we should admit our mistakes and move forward.

Finally, when the results are achieved we should share the rewards broadly and generously with those contributing to success. Sharing builds rapport and shows we value their contributions. The rewards should only be enjoyed when we have added service and value to others. When service and value are added our results tend to have longer life. Results will always be a requirement of our lives. Getting focused and understanding what we are giving up to achieve the results is important. Then taking responsibility for our actions and sharing the successes make the achievements more meaningful.