The Core #5: What stands in the way becomes the way

I flirt with Stoicism rather than going steady, but this attitude from Marcus Aurelius is one of the main things that sticks with me in my work. Incidentally, for a whole book on the topic, The Obstacle is the Way by Ryan Holiday is a good read.

This principle is about focusing on what matters. When working with companies, you find obstacles, or blockers, or points of significant friction. These are signposts to the stuff that matters, not things to regard with irritation. They point the way to the stuff that really deserves your attention. The obstacles that, if you can find a way through them, will mean you're able to make a massive difference.

If you're an external consultant, you'll spot these things that "stand in the way" quite easily. It's one of the benefits of coming in to something with a fresh perspective.

How do you find the way through these obstacles? I ask stupid questions. Things so obvious to the organisation that they think you're a bit dim. Ask the questions, like a wide-eyed five year old (but, why?) and listen attentively to the reply.

This is the way.