A challenging dilemma
Consulting is an extremely difficult job. It's not physical. You can't win by brute force. That is why you must invest in learning to improve your skills.
You work crazy hours as an MBB consultant.
And you face a challenging dilemma...
Work Hard or Work Smart.
I am sure you are already working pretty hard. And you probably started to realize that 'working even harder' is not a good option for you. There are only so many hours in a day.
To work smart, you must learn.
Learn new skills and best practices. Improve your effectiveness and efficiency.
But you don't have time and energy for that because you work hard.
To illustrate this, I like to use one principle coined by Stephen Covey in his book The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
Sharpen the Saw.
He tells a story about two men cutting down trees. One works nonstop, and the other takes regular breaks to sharpen his saw. Surprisingly, the second one progresses significantly further.
This principle applies well to consulting.
It's not a physical job.
You cannot win by brute force.
The difference between effective and ineffective can be exponential. One good idea or skill can save you lots of time. Also, the impact can be much higher.
In essence, to be successful, you must steal time for yourself and your own learning.
Think of your time as an investment. Every hour invested in learning NOW can save you days, if not weeks, in the future.
Be careful! At this job, you must think about yourself a little bit, about your safety and success. Otherwise, you may find yourself working really hard but not appreciated in the end.
First, take care of yourself and then others when you are doing well.
Okay, let's assume you are convinced.
You want to invest in your learning.
The next problem you'll face is not knowing how to do it effectively. You are worried you will waste your precious time on random things.
That is why I created a coaching program for MBB consultants.
It helps you focus on important skills, sequence them effectively, and avoid wasting precious time.
If you are an MBB consultant and sick of struggling with performance and development, I want to discuss with you whether I can help you through my coaching program. There is no commitment, and you can ask any burning questions in a risk-free environment.
Read this post to learn more about the Hero’s Journey coaching program.