Build Your New Habit Here
WHEN THIS HAPPENS...
Write out the moment, the person and perhaps the feelings that are
your trigger.
The trigger here is how much you want to help. So what sets you
off? It’s likely when someone asks, “How do I...?” or “Could
you...?” or “What’s the way to...?” Or perhaps it’s just when
someone comes into your office and tells you about a situation,
and the perfect solution pops immediately into your mind. Or
when that happens in a team meeting. Or when you think to
yourself, It’s faster to do this myself, even though you’re unclear on
what the “this” really is. In short, it’s every time you get that urge
to jump in, help out and volunteer. And the real insult here—to
your time, effort and good intentions—is that the recipients may
not even want or need what you’re about to give them.
INSTEAD OF...
Write out the old habit you want to stop doing. Be specific.
The old habit you’re breaking is your jumping into helpful, action
mode. You’re giving the solution, you’re providing the answer,
you’re adding something to your to-do list. You’re assuming you
know what the request is, even though the request hasn’t been
clearly made. In short, you’re taking responsibility.
I WILL....