Rush. Strive. Grind.
Your mind is full of rules rooted in hidden beliefs like:
- There’s not enough time.
- I must prove my worth.
- Struggling is required.
These rules live in a subconscious “manual” that guides your decisions and shapes how you see the world.
Your brain uses this manual to filter reality, seeking evidence to reinforce what you already believe. This is called confirmation bias.
The manual helps avoid decision fatigue. For example, you don’t decide whether to brush your teeth—you just do it. Some rules, like this one, work for you.
But many rules work against you:
- Never turn down work because any revenue is good revenue. This prevents you from specializing, limiting your focus and scalability.
- Don’t trust the competition; they’ll steal your clients. This mindset blocks collaboration and growth opportunities.
- Pay attention to every detail or you’ll miss something important. Micromanaging makes you the bottleneck, leading to burnout.
These rules keep your business small.
Next time you feel frustrated, pause and ask why. The answer often reveals a violation of a rule in your manual.
It sounds like: “This shouldn’t be happening.” But resisting reality wastes energy. Instead, accept it and decide what to do next.
Refocus your mind on the outcome you want, and you’ll move forward faster.
Re-evaluate Your Manual: Start by completing these sentences:
- I have to…
- Money is…
- Employees must…
- Customers should…
Rule Revisions to Consider:
- I have to look for the good.
- Money is condensed energy.
- Employees must feel valued.
- Customers should be partners.
You already have a manual. Why not update it with rules that feel good and are within your control?
Follow Stephen Covey’s advice: Keep rules few and focused on positive outcomes.
You’ll be happier AND more successful.
