Friday espresso: From ‘Just Do It’ to ‘Just Experiment It’
Oct 18, 2024 1:01 am
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From ‘Just Do It’ to ‘Just Experiment It’
As a leadership coach, I often encourage my clients to shift from a ‘just do it’ mindset to a ‘just experiment it’ approach. Why? Because experiments aren’t about getting everything right; they’re about being open to whatever comes, whether it’s success or a valuable lesson. This mindset allows for greater flexibility, creativity, and growth—not just in business but also in personal life.
This year, I applied this mindset to my half marathon training. It wasn’t about achieving the perfect pace or setting a personal record. Instead, it was about experimenting with different strategies for staying healthy and maintaining a practice that supports my well-being.
WHY Embracing Experiments Matters
Many of us are conditioned to think success comes only from precise planning and flawless execution. But life doesn’t always go according to plan, and this is where the power of experimentation comes in. When you approach a challenge as an experiment, the focus shifts from perfection to progress. You’re free to test ideas, make adjustments, and learn from whatever outcomes arise.
In the context of leadership, applying this approach helps teams stay innovative and resilient, even in unpredictable situations.
WHAT Does Experimenting Look Like in Practice
For me, this year’s half marathon was one big experiment. My focus wasn’t on hitting a specific time or following a rigid strategy. It was about being in tune with my body, staying healthy, and continuing a practice that aligned with my long-term goals.
During the run, things didn’t go perfectly—around the 16th km, my calf tightened up, and doubt crept in. But instead of getting frustrated, I reminded myself why I run: for health, not for perfection. I kept moving forward, adjusting my pace as needed, and focused on staying in the moment.
Even my approach to nutrition was part of the experiment since I started running. I skip the typical gels and salt sticks, opting for a simpler, more natural diet. This choice aligns with my overall health philosophy, where I focus on whole foods and listen to what works best for my body.
HOW to Apply the 'Just Experiment It' Mindset
Shifting to an experimental mindset requires conscious effort, but it can lead to transformative results in both your personal and professional life. Here’s how to get started:
- Redefine success: Success doesn’t have to mean hitting a perfect target. Start by identifying the broader direction and outline some steps to move toward it. Each step you take is an experiment, and the effort you put in is already a success. It's not about perfection, but about learning and growing with each attempt.
- Allow flexibility in your approach: Just like in my marathon, things may not always go as planned. When that happens, adjust, adapt, and keep moving forward. Experimenting invites change without the pressure of a fixed outcome and often opens up new possibilities for how things can be done.
- Experiment with intentionality: Know why you’re doing what you’re doing. Whether it’s improving your health, becoming more efficient at work, or being a better leader, having a clear intention will help guide your experimentation and make each step purposeful.
Experimenting isn’t just about running marathons or trying new business strategies—it’s about adopting a mindset that frees you from the pressure of perfection and allows you to embrace growth and learning. When you stop focusing solely on the finish line and start enjoying the journey, that’s where the real transformation happens.
Are any of you up to join me on more experiments in the future? Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/koolily/
That is today's espresso.
Keep the momentum, every sip counts!
Stay caffeinated & curious!
Koo Lily
l Founder of mq Training Coaching Consulting l
Leadership Coach l Change Facilitator l Speaker l
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