The Value of a "more better" Mindset

I talk about a concept I call "more better," which has often been inadequately translated to mean taking small steps to make incremental improvements. Don’t get me wrong, the small-steps approach is tremendously helpful when faced with an otherwise daunting task, or one that has not yet yielded to repeat efforts. But there’s something here that’s missing.

Just imagine for a minute. When I suggest taking small steps doesn’t the exercise quickly become one of mentally breaking down a large task into smaller “bite-sized” chunks? The exercise is then often a mental calculation, which is fine and actually a necessary survival skill, but does not capture the essence or the added benefit of working with a “more better” mindset.

“More better” is first-off a feeling approach, as in, “this just feels better.”

And as a feeling state, the desire for “more better” is often triggered by its opposite, when things feel “off,” or wrong, as when you’ve been sitting at the computer for far too long, or have stayed up late in an effort to catch up with work.

“More better” is a call to shift into an improved feeling state, and yes, even by increments if that’s what’s available to you. Irritable? Maybe dim the light, get some air, or grab a handful of something nutritious to eat if that’s what’s “off.” You don’t have to make the whole thing better, just make what you've got more better.

“More better” is about micro-managing your internal state to stay within your optimal comfort zone. And that often means making slight adjustments that can have out-sized impact.

On-going mindfulness of “more better” can result in clearer thinking and the sustained energy and focus behind increased productivity.

And the best thing about “more better?” It trains you to consider and prioritize the input from your body and senses, an oft forgotten asset in the workplace - an asset you own, and one that will always “have your back.”

The School of Dae Nova