The Four Things I wished I’d known before I read the article, “The Six Things I should have known”

You’ve been drawn back into your social media and to justify the time slipping away you gravitate to an authoritative sounding article like “The four tips to make you: a genius/more attractive/liked/successful/fulfilled ... Boondoggling over let’s strap in for a serious session you think!

The sugar hit might work immediately but do these articles create a step change. Unfortunately the feel good likely fades while reading. Four common themes seem to reappear:

1?? Opinions - well intentioned and possibly based on some success but often with limited context and no real explanation as to how to apply.

2?? Research free - very often anecdotal data at best. No repeatable experiments to refine the advice.

3?? Celebrity - things always sound more plausible when a sporting type or a beautiful person get involved.

4?? Selling - click-bait style headlines likely to create some anxiety with supporting ideas that reinforce the perceived “void” in your life.

We are all looking for that shortcut or hack to get ahead so we are drawn to these types of articles. And yes, there might be an occasional kernel to lock away but the downside can be that these ideas distract you from your purpose and, possibly, you begin to second guess your process and pathway.

So it’s vital that you have a good plan to avoid distraction and develop resilience:

? Set agreed SMART goals with a coach/supervisor

? Develop processes and routines that ensure you bring your best to every project and performance

? Actively seek feedback and apply it to improve performance

? Develop a small inner sanctum of “advisers” and seek their guidance and counsel on medium to longer term goals

Good food fuels our bodies. Words and thoughts are the fuel for our minds. Choose wisely.