Game Plans for Work & Life

Think of a situation where you know you can bring value or revenue or customers…you just need to be heard. When we make an investment, we expect a return on that investment (ROI). In the same way, this is a conversation where you also want a return; hence, the term ROI discussion. It goes like this:

First, decide whose buy-in you need from this conversation.

Second, consider the dynamics of your relationship with that person and what’s the best way to approach the individual.

Third, when you’re ready to meet, think through these 4 elements beforehand.

1. Describe your idea simply, convincingly, and powerfully emphasizing the 3 points below.

2. WIIFM…WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME to be taken seriously regarding this proposal or idea or job? (Are you seen as key team player, possible promotion when time is right, expand network, build influence skills, etc)

3. WIIFS…WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOUR BOSS to listen or act on the idea? (Think about what’s important on his or her plate these days, how will this idea benefit the boss? How can you help him/her look good or score a win for the dept.? Wear the boss’s shoes for a minute to see what’s important in that world and where this idea may fit in the bigger picture).

4. WIIFO…WHAT’S IN IT FOR THE ORGANIZATION to support this idea? (How will it benefit the enterprise where you work? What will it enable the org. to do better)?

Once you approach your boss from a place of “value I can provide” to help us achieve a certain goal, chances are likely he or she will listen.

Then, discuss the idea and come prepared. Either bring a 1 page bulleted talking sheet or a 1 pg. diagram/picture outlining the idea.
Then, after describing the idea, talk through each point below.
1. WIIFM…Its important for me to spearhead this project because ….
2. WIIFS…Your support is instrumental so together we can …….
3.WIIFO…The organization etc. benefits in these ways….

Practice or discuss alternate ideas with a friend/colleague. You’ll surprise yourself at how convincing you sound. When the time is right, put your positive energy into practice.

“Whatever you do or dream you can do, begin it.
Boldness has genius and power and magic in it.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

A reader asked “What kinds of people age best and how do they do it?” I thought it was a great question so I scanned several recently read books on “positive aging,” surveyed current writers in the field of successful midlife transitions, and reviewed recent speeches on similar topics given at conferences. Here are the results. If questions emerge, send a comment and I’ll gladly provide more detail.

Ingredients For Positive Aging:

People who age best practice these habits regularly:

1. Simplify; de clutter all aspects of your life

2. Connect to what is important now

3. Continue to grow… in your own way

4. Avoid smoking and too much TV; cut back on drugs, alcohol, & snacking

5. Combat age discrimination and forms of ageism, in both how you think and behave

6. Stay optimistic and positive; no matter what

7. Stay physically active; don’t allow yourself to become sedentary /passive

8. Eat until you’re almost full and exercise daily

9. Remain connected to your friends, family and society

10. Think about legacies now and take action to make them real

11. Keep learning new areas of interest all the time

12. Exercise the brain (puzzles, games, cards, computer, reading, socializing, hobbies, etc.)

13. Manage loss with dignity and grace

14. Develop longevity habits early and make them part of your everyday living

15. Tickle your funny bone often; find humor in situations and laugh everyday

Laid off?  Between jobs?  Recently retired?  If you’re looking at what’s next, this is a good place to begin.  Thousands of adults are in the same boat and many without a paddle or a clue.  Everyone needs a place to start.  Asking yourself the right questions is a terrific first step. 

So get comfortable and ponder the questions below.  Your answers will help you create a foundation, perhaps some viable ideas, of what you want in the next chapter of your life.

1. What makes me happy; feel fulfilled?

2. What is important to me now?

3. At this point in life, what are my concerns and dreams?

4. What is worth taking a risk for now?

5. In what ways do I want to contribute in the next couple years? 

6. How can I use my talents that will feel personally satisfying? 

7. What personal factors are important to consider… such as necessary income range, distance to commute, time commitment, etc.

Once you ponder these questions, brainstorm ways to use your talents in new ventures, jobs, or opportunities. Ask a couple good friends; get their input and recommended ideas. If you have questions or run out of options, send a comment and share the key points or themes that you learn about yourself. Together we can brainstorm ways to transfer your talents in the future.  I look forward to hearing from you.