Blog - WorkSitter

Mastering the Art of Leadership: Let Up, But Don’t Let Go

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 22:09:00 GMT

Running a business is tough, especially when you are pressured to control every little detail.

But here's the thing: trying to do it all yourself can actually hold your business back.

Instead of gripping the reins too tightly, let’s explore a more balanced approach—one that allows you to guide your business effectively without burning out.

The Problem with Micromanagement

Micromanagement might seem like the right way to keep everything under control, but it often backfires.

When you micromanage, you’re not just taking on too much yourself—you’re also stifling your team’s potential. Creativity? Gone. Efficiency? Slowed down. Burnout? Inevitable.

Let’s take a step back and consider micromanagement's impact on your business.

You might be involved in every decision, but at what cost? Your team becomes dependent on you for every little thing, and that’s not sustainable.

In the long run, you’ll find yourself overwhelmed, and your team disempowered.

Understanding the Balance

So, what’s the alternative? It’s all about balance. “Letting up” means relaxing your grip, but “letting go” means abandoning your responsibilities. The key is finding a middle ground where you trust your team but still keep an eye on the bigger picture.

Think about teaching a child to ride a bike. At first, you hold on tight, guiding them along. But as they gain confidence, you gradually loosen your grip until, eventually, they’re riding on their own. The same applies to your business. You start with a strong guiding hand, but over time, you need to let your team take the lead while you focus on steering the overall direction.

Great leaders like Steve Jobs or Jeff Bezos didn’t achieve success by doing everything themselves. They mastered the art of delegation and trusted their teams to execute the vision, stepping in only when necessary to keep things on track.

The Benefits of Letting Up

When you let up, amazing things happen. Your team feels empowered, and that leads to innovation. They start bringing new ideas, and your business becomes more agile.

Plus, when your employees feel trusted, they’re more satisfied and motivated, which translates to better performance overall.

Consider companies like Google, which is known for fostering a culture of innovation. They achieved this by giving their teams the freedom to experiment and fail. This approach has led to some of their most successful products. The lesson here? Trust your team, and they’ll reward you with creativity and dedication.

However, trust doesn’t mean hands-off. It’s about setting clear expectations and providing the right tools and training.

When your team knows what’s expected and has the resources to succeed, they’re more likely to meet and exceed your expectations.

Practical Steps to Let Up Without Letting Go

Transitioning to a more balanced leadership style isn’t easy, but it’s definitely possible. Here’s how you can start:

Delegate Wisely: Not all tasks are created equal. Focus on the big-picture work that only you can do, and delegate the rest. Choose the right people for each task based on their strengths and expertise.
Set Clear Expectations: Clarity is key. Make sure your team knows what success looks like, and set realistic deadlines. Clear communication reduces the need for constant check-ins.
Trust but Verify: You don’t need to micromanage, but you do need to stay informed.
Use tools that allow you to monitor progress without hovering. Regular updates and reports can keep you in the loop.
Regular Check-Ins: Schedule consistent meetings, but don’t overdo it. These check-ins should be about guidance and support, not micromanagement. Encourage open communication and make it a two-way street.
Encourage Ownership: When your team takes ownership of their work, they’re more invested in the outcome. Empower them to make decisions and solve problems on their own, and watch them rise to the challenge.

Overcoming the Fear of Letting Up

One of the biggest hurdles to letting up is fear. What if things go wrong? What if your business suffers? These fears are valid, but they can be managed.

First, build a strong support system within your team. Surround yourself with capable leaders who share your vision.

Second, develop a culture of accountability. When everyone is responsible for their part, the burden doesn’t fall solely on your shoulders. Encourage transparency and open dialogue to address issues before they become major problems.

Finally, remind yourself that letting up doesn’t mean letting go. You’re still the captain of the ship, guiding it toward your vision. By focusing on the bigger picture, you’re positioning your business for long-term success.

Maintaining Vision and Oversight

Even as you let up on the day-to-day details, keeping your company’s mission and vision front and center is crucial. Your role as a leader is to ensure that everything aligns with the big picture.

Regular strategy meetings are a great way to maintain this alignment. These meetings should focus on long-term goals and how daily operations contribute to them. It’s also important to establish key performance indicators (KPIs) that give you insight into how your business is doing without needing to dive into the weeds.

Another useful tool is performance metrics. You can monitor progress and spot potential issues by tracking key metrics. This allows you to step in when necessary without having to micromanage.

Remember, your job is to steer the ship, not to be in the engine room. Keep your eye on the horizon, and trust your team to handle the day-to-day operations.

Conclusion

Finding the balance between letting up and staying in control is one of the most important skills a leader can develop. By trusting your team, setting clear expectations, and maintaining oversight, you can lead your business to success without burning out.

This balanced approach isn’t just about improving your business—it’s about improving your life. When every detail does not bog you down, you have more time to focus on growth, innovation, and the things that matter most to you.

So, take a deep breath, loosen your grip, and trust the process. You’ve built something great—now it’s time to let it grow.

Overcoming the Fear of Missed Potential (FOMP)

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 18:18:00 GMT

As visionaries, we often take significant chances in life.

Some lead to phenomenal outcomes, while others may fall short of our expectations.

This journey is a part of life.

We all possess an incredible gift, and deep down, we have a strong "fear of missed potential," or FOMP .

This fear, like many others, can be overwhelming. We feel the call to greatness, knowing it’s within us, yet worry about not living up to it.

This fear ties into the Hero's Journey, asking if we will take the necessary steps to fulfill our potential or remain on the precipice, pondering what could have been.

The Hero's Journey challenges us to make it through the dark night of the soul and take steps toward our potential.

It's about moving beyond contemplation and into action, seizing opportunities rather than merely imagining them.

As we strive to fulfill our potential, it often feels just within reach.

Entrepreneurs and visionaries naturally have many ideas and dreams, always wanting to achieve more. However, it's essential to recognize that we can’t do it all at once.

To find balance when feeling the pressure of FOMP, remind yourself:

You've accomplished great things.
You've taken significant chances.
Creativity is a core part of who you are.
Your daily actions reflect your message.
You are enough and have nothing more to prove.

Fear of missed potential is natural but can be managed. Here are strategies to combat this fear:

Document Ideas : Write down your ideas, thoughts, goals, and dreams.
Share with Others : Discuss your ideas and dreams.
Keep Inspiration Visible : Place ideas you’re excited about where you can see them daily.
Bet on Yourself : Always believe in your potential, recognizing the value of your efforts, even if outcomes differ from expectations.

Experiencing FOMP is a natural part of growth. We are all capable of greatness, and our unique light can shine through in various ways.

At WorkSitter, we help visionaries like you overcome the fear of missed potential and turn dreams into reality.

Book a Discovery call with us today and start realizing your full potential.

Book Your Discovery Call Now

The Privilege of Procrastination: Embrace It and Thrive

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 18:18:00 GMT

In today's world, we enjoy unprecedented freedom. Imagine life 2.6 million years ago during the Stone Age.

Fast forward to now, and postponing a trip to the grocery store is no big deal.

For most of us, basic needs are met, and we have the luxury of choice.

As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves juggling numerous tasks.

Unlike the rigidity of a 9-5 job, we have the flexibility to be creative and, yes , to procrastinate.

This flexibility is a privilege.

Procrastination: Not the Enemy

Embracing procrastination as a human privilege allows us to turn it into a tool.

Professor Frank Partnoy, in his book Wait: The Art and Science of Delay , argues that wise leaders understand and use procrastination to their advantage.

Historically, the negative connotation of procrastination began with Jonathan Edwards’ sermons in the Puritanical era. However, modern studies suggest that managing delay can lead to happiness and success.

Managing Priorities

Procrastination is often about prioritizing. If you’re putting off a task, it might not be a priority at the moment.

Here are two common reasons why we procrastinate:

Avoidance : We dread the task and avoid it at all costs.
Perfectionism : We want to do the task perfectly and fear failure, leading to delays.

On the flip side, there’s pre-crastination – the urge to complete tasks immediately, which can also be counterproductive.

Owning Your Procrastination

You can turn procrastination into an asset by acknowledging it. Here’s how to manage procrastination:

Track Procrastination : Note what you procrastinate on.
Analyze Reasons : Ask yourself why you’re procrastinating.
Schedule Procrastination : Allocate specific times for procrastination.
Incorporate Pre-crastination : Use it strategically for quick wins.

For instance, turning chores into a game can make them more enjoyable. If the bathroom needs cleaning, challenge yourself to see how fast you can finish.

Conclusion: Procrastination as a Strategic Tool

Procrastination is a privilege that, when managed well, can be advantageous. Embrace it, manage it, and make it work for you.

Ready to Take Control of Your Procrastination?

At WorkSitter, we specialize in helping entrepreneurs like you turn procrastination into productivity. Book a Discovery call with us today to learn how we can help you achieve your goals more efficiently.

Book your FREE Discovery Call to start your journey of continuous improvement and unlock your full potential!

Self-Renewal for Your Business: Sharpen your Potential

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 17:02:00 GMT

In the whirlwind of professional ambition and personal growth, the principle of self-renewal stands as a beacon, guiding us toward sustained success and well-being.

Stephen R. Covey, in his groundbreaking work, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," introduced the world to the concept of " sharpening the saw ," a metaphor that encapsulates the essence of continuous improvement across all facets of life.

This habit, positioned as the seventh and culminating practice, emphasizes the importance of regular, holistic self-care to enhance our greatest asset—ourselves.

The Essence of Sharpening the Saw

Sharpening the saw is about more than just taking a break; it's a deliberate practice of nurturing the mind, body, soul, and emotions to maintain and increase effectiveness in our personal and professional lives.

The Four Dimensions of Self-Renewal

Physical Renewal

Physical renewal is about caring for your body and recognizing it as the foundation upon which everything else is built. This dimension encompasses:
- Regular Exercise : Engaging in physical activity not only improves health but also enhances mental clarity and emotional stability. It could be as simple as daily walking, yoga, or more structured workouts.
- Nutritious Eating : Consuming a balanced diet fuels the body with the necessary nutrients to perform at its best. Hydration plays a crucial role as well.
- Adequate Rest : Ensuring enough sleep and taking breaks when needed are essential for recovery, maintaining energy levels, and preventing burnout.
Mental Renewal

Mental renewal focuses on stimulating the mind, fostering a growth mindset, and expanding knowledge and skills:
- Continuous Learning : Pursuing new knowledge through reading, courses, or any form of education keeps the mind engaged and growing.
- Creative Pursuits : Activities like writing, drawing, or playing an instrument stimulate creative thinking and innovation.
- Reflection and Planning : Regularly setting aside time for reflection on past experiences and future planning helps in aligning actions with goals and values.
Emotional Renewal

Emotional renewal is about cultivating a healthy emotional life, building resilience, and nurturing relationships:
- Social Connections : Maintaining strong relationships and seeking supportive social interactions can boost emotional health and provide a sense of belonging.
- Emotional Intelligence : Developing skills to understand and manage your emotions, as well as those of others, leads to better stress management and interpersonal relationships.
- Gratitude and Positivity : Practicing gratitude and maintaining a positive outlook can improve emotional well-being and resilience.
Spiritual Renewal

Spiritual renewal involves activities that nurture your spirit, provide a sense of purpose, and align actions with personal beliefs and values:
- Meditation and Mindfulness : Practices like meditation, mindfulness, or prayer can help center your thoughts, reduce stress, and promote inner peace.
- Connection with Nature : Spending time in natural surroundings can offer a sense of tranquillity, perspective, and renewal.
- Service and Contribution : Engaging in volunteer work or contributing to causes important to you can fulfill a sense of purpose and connection to the larger world.

Integrating the Dimensions

Integrating these dimensions into your life isn't about perfection; it's about progress and making regular, conscious efforts to nurture all aspects of your being.

This holistic approach to self-renewal ensures that you're not just surviving but thriving, ready to face challenges with resilience, creativity, and energy.

Embrace Continuous Growth

The journey to self-improvement and professional success is ongoing, marked by periods of growth, challenge, and reflection.

Embracing the habit of sharpening the saw means committing to a lifestyle of continuous growth, where we regularly assess and enhance our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It's a holistic approach that prepares us to seize opportunities, overcome obstacles, and achieve our fullest potential.

How We Can Help

This is where the promise of support and guidance becomes invaluable. For those seeking to embrace this journey, finding a partner in growth can be the catalyst for transformative change.

This is the foundation upon which services like WorkSitter are built—providing the tools, resources, and community to not only support your journey of self-renewal but to accelerate it.

Whether it's through enhancing productivity, fostering accountability, or simply offering a structured path toward achieving your goals, the right support system can turn the concept of self-renewal from a solo endeavour into a shared journey of success.

Ready to take the first step towards a more productive, balanced, and fulfilled life?

Discover how a partnership focused on your growth can make all the difference.

Book your FREE Discovery Call to start your journey of continuous improvement and unlock your full potential!

Neurodiversity in Solo Entrepreneurship 2024

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 17:16:00 GMT

In the dynamic world of solo entrepreneurship, where innovation and resilience reign supreme, a powerful yet often overlooked factor is becoming increasingly central to success: neurodiversity .

As we delve into 2024, the entrepreneurial landscape is being transformed by individuals who not only embrace their unique cognitive differences but also harness them as a source of strength and innovation.

From ADHD and autism to dyslexia, neurodiverse conditions bring a wealth of creativity, problem-solving abilities, and fresh perspectives that challenge conventional business norms.

This evolving recognition of neurodiversity in solo entrepreneurship marks a pivotal shift towards more inclusive, adaptive, and innovative business practices.

By exploring the journeys, strategies, and successes of neurodiverse solo entrepreneurs, we uncover the immense potential that lies in embracing and leveraging cognitive diversity.

Join us as we delve into the transformative power of neurodiversity in solo entrepreneurship, illuminating the path for a new generation of business leaders who redefine what it means to innovate and succeed.

Neurodiversity: A Solo Entrepreneur's Asset

For solo entrepreneurs, neurodiversity can be a significant asset. Traits often associated with conditions like ADHD, such as heightened creativity, the ability to think outside the box, and exceptional focus in areas of interest, can drive innovation and problem-solving in business.

Embracing Diverse Minds

This shift towards inclusion reflects a broader societal change. Companies and Startups realize that neurodivergent individuals bring unique strengths like creativity and attention to detail. Forward-thinking businesses are harnessing this by integrating neurodivergent talents into their teams, not just as a gesture of inclusivity but as a strategic advantage.

The Challenge of Misconceptions for Solo Entrepreneurs with Neurodiversity

Solo entrepreneurs with neurological differences such as ADHD, autism, and dyslexia frequently encounter stereotypes about their capabilities and work styles. These misconceptions can stem from a lack of understanding of neurodiversity and its implications in a business context.

For instance, someone with ADHD might exhibit remarkable creativity and an ability to think outside the box, traits that are invaluable for innovation and problem-solving in business. Similarly, individuals on the autism spectrum often have an extraordinary focus and attention to detail, enabling them to excel in tasks that require precision and deep concentration.

Self-Advocacy and Customizing Work Environments

As solo entrepreneurs, individuals with neurodiversity have the unique opportunity to tailor their work environment and schedule to suit their needs. This autonomy allows them to create a structure that maximizes their strengths and minimizes challenges associated with their neurodiversity.

Networking and Building Your Tribe

For neurodiverse solo entrepreneurs, forging connections within understanding and supportive communities is more than beneficial—it's essential.

Delving into networks that champion neurodiversity offers a treasure trove of resources, mentorship opportunities, and the kind of moral support that fuels perseverance and growth. These communities serve as vibrant platforms for challenging misconceptions and celebrating the unique successes and innovative approaches of neurodivergent entrepreneurs.

Ready to embark on an empowering journey tailored to your unique entrepreneurial spirit?

Schedule your complimentary introductory call now and discover the pathways to success that await you!

The Future of Solo Entrepreneurship

The future looks bright for neurodiverse solo entrepreneurs. With a growing recognition of the value of diverse perspectives and problem-solving approaches, the business world is increasingly supportive of neurodiverse entrepreneurs. This trend is likely to continue as more individuals leverage their unique talents to create successful, fulfilling business ventures.

Conclusion

Neurodiversity is proving to be a powerful force in the world of solo entrepreneurship. As we move through 2024, the impact of neurodiverse entrepreneurs is being felt more than ever, demonstrating that embracing one's authentic self can be the key to success and innovation.

Book your FREE Intro Call to start your new journey today!

Lead Your Team, Don't Just Manage Them.

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 01:27:00 GMT

Are you struggling to keep your team on track? If so, you might be trying to manage people, which can often feel more like a control exercise than a productive strategy. At WorkSitter, we believe in a different approach: Don't manage people; manage processes instead. Let's dive into what this really means.

The Freedom of Leadership

You see, at WorkSitter, we understand the importance of freedom and autonomy. We value individual creativity and unique input from our team members. Attempting to manage people directly can sometimes stifle these qualities and leave your team feeling underappreciated. That's why we suggest leading people instead.

The Power of Process Management

When we talk about managing processes, we're not suggesting a rigid, robotic routine that leaves no room for individuality. Instead, we advocate for well-defined processes that provide clear guidance while leaving space for creativity and personal interpretation. One integral part of these processes are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

SOPs lay out a clear, step-by-step guide for executing tasks. They take out the guesswork and ensure tasks are completed efficiently and effectively every time.

By focusing on processes and implementing SOPs, we can assess performance objectively, without letting emotions cloud our judgment. This also enables your team to have a clear understanding of what's expected, which can result in increased productivity and a smoother operation overall.

How We Do It at WorkSitter

We take the happiness of our team seriously. We have devised a weekly task assessment process, using color codes to capture how our team members feel about their tasks. Green for tasks they love, Black for tasks they don't hate but don't want to work on long term, Red for tasks they detest. The moment we hit Red, we address the issue immediately.

We also have a fourth color, Purple. This denotes what a person aspires to do, the tasks they are passionate about but are not currently engaged in. We always strive to help our team members reach their Purple tasks.

WorkSitter's Task Assessment Workshop

For you, our Visionaries, we have a special introduction this summer. Our Task Assessment Workshop helps you identify tasks that can be handed off to our dedicated team members, giving you the freedom to focus on what you love, and take that summer vacation you've been dreaming of.

Leadership is About Discovery

At WorkSitter, we believe leadership involves not just discovering the right people for your team, but also helping them discover themselves. It's about guiding your team members and letting them choose their paths. This brings us full circle: You can't manage people effectively, but you can manage processes!

We encourage you to apply this mindset to your own teams and processes. As we step into the height of summer, we're here to support you and your team to thrive. After all, isn't that what WorkSitter is all about?

The WorkSitter Team

Unlocking Productivity: From Motion to Action for Entrepreneurs

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 12:58:00 GMT

There’s an interesting concept that motion and action are not the same thing. We want to share with you how we as entrepreneurs can get "stuck in motion" and suggestions for pushing ourselves into action.

Stuck in Motion

When you are in motion, you are planning, strategizing and learning. In our opinion, motion is beneficial and necessary for making an idea, product, or service a reality. However, according to James Clear :

You feel as if you are being highly productive when in reality, you are just preparing to get things done.

In our experience and work, we have found that uncertainty breeds fear. The more fear we have, the more likely we are to get stuck in motion versus taking action. This makes perfect sense because the second we go to take action, we put ourselves out on the line for rejection and failure.

As entrepreneurs, we are always taking risks and there seems always to be a degree of uncertainty.

I believe that we want things to be perfect, so we stay in motion out of fear that we aren't good enough to take the next step (among other fears). We all have definitely experienced this in our own journey.

Clear also suggests that when preparation becomes procrastination, then it is time to turn motion into action.

Take Action

We love the old adage, "Actions speak louder than words".

Action is the art of putting your plan into motion. In our experience, this is easier said than done.

Being busy is a badge of honor in our culture. Our culture loves a busy person, so motion justifies being busy. As entrepreneurs, and even we find myself guilty of this; we find ourselves in the "motion rut". How can we get out?

Stop the Vicious Motion Cycle

Don't get us wrong, we do not think motion is a bad thing. In fact, we believe motion is necessary for action to take place.

However, as with all things, when the scale starts to tip, and we are now just avoiding what we need to do, here lies the issue. How do you know when you are stuck in motion? We like to ask the following questions:

How long have you been in motion?
What was the last action you took?
What action can you take today?

Being aware that you are in an endless cycle of motion is the first step to taking action. For instance, if you find yourself saying things like, "I've been talking and researching about this..." or "I've got a list of potential clients".

This is great, but have you implemented what you've been researching? Have you made the call to your potential clients?

Best Hacks

Just like many other entrepreneurs, we are humans and have a tendency to get "stuck in motion". These are our two favorite hacks for pulling out of motion and propelling into action.

Put action dates on a calendar . For example, "I want to call x potential new client by this date".
Chart the activities you do every day that your company actually gets paid for . In other words, ask yourself, "What did I do today that I will actually get paid for?".
Imperfection is okay! Practice makes perfect!

Your first attempt may not be perfect, and that is okay. For instance, let's say you release a new mobile app. More than likely, you will release at least one update that improves upon the app because it has imperfections.

No one is going to remember that your first attempt wasn't the best. Don't be afraid to take the leap! Get out of motion and into action!

ScaleYou

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 19:49:00 GMT

At WorkSitter, we love working with microentrepreneurs who want to do one thing exceptionally well. These are often businesses with 10 or fewer full-time employees who are working lean and plan on staying that way. We believe that when microentrepreneurs scale themselves as leaders and visionaries, their lives become infinitely better. That's why we want to dive into the concept of "ScaleYou" and how it can help you become more productive and efficient.

What is ScaleYou?

"ScaleYou" is the notion of scaling your talents, your energy, your enthusiasm, and your team. It's about getting rid of all the little (or big) things you don't want or have to do and focusing on what you want to do and the things you do well.

5 Components to ScaleYou

At WorkSitter, we believe that there are 5 components that allow you to scale and grow yourself. These are time magic, talent magic, task magic, team magic, and tool magic.

TIME MAGIC

We believe that you are most rewarded when you work in a way that fits you best. For instance, if you are most productive when listening to music, then listen to music. There is no right or wrong answer regarding the method you use to accomplish tasks. We suggest asking yourself the following two questions:

How do I make my time count in the way I want to? For instance, what do I want to have accomplished at the end of the day, and how do I get there?

When is my peak mental clarity? This is the time of day that I find I am most productive. And then schedule that time!

TALENT MAGIC

Talent magic refers to accessing your strengths. At WorkSitter, we believe that your strengths are often what you enjoy doing. We suggest focusing at least 50% of your time on your strengths and tracking your talent. Then, assess the tasks you are doing throughout the day that you do not like and would love never to have to do again so that you can hand them off.

TASK MAGIC

For each task, ask yourself if it has to be done. If so, does it have to be done by you? Does it have to be done now? When you take a moment to stop and think about each task, you'll be constantly surprised by how often tasks are not necessary, do not have to be done by you, or can wait. At WorkSitter, we love SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) and we LOVE doing them for you. We suggest writing them down and getting them out of your head and onto paper to visualize your tasks at hand more clearly. Actually, even better is to screen record yourself doing the task or procedure and then pass the video off to a teammate to create the SOP and take over the responsibility!

TEAM MAGIC

No matter how small your team is, each member has different jobs and responsibilities. At WorkSitter, we believe in breaking your team out into categories such as WorkSitters, Doers/Assistants, Run with It, and Generator/Strategist, depending on your business's needs. Then hire based on projections. We suggest hiring a lot of WorkSitters and Doers. It is only a small percentage of your revenue for a month. This is how you can multiply yourself because it translates into a higher profit.

TOOL MAGIC

Another great way to scale yourself is to use Loom or any app to record yourself and your screen to make "How To" videos. Make as many as you can, as often as you can. These are great reference materials for your WorkSitters and Doers. Google Docs for sharing work is a phenomenal way to collaborate with your team. Another thing we love to do at WorkSitter is voice record our thoughts. This way, we can send them over to your Teammate and say, "Hey, can you do this for me?" Utilizing available tools is a great way to multiply yourself.

You've Already Broken the Mold!

We believe that entrepreneurs are extraordinary human beings. You are motivators, and generators, and break the mold every single day. That’s your greatest talent. We reject corporate America's idea of the perfect business model. Believe it or not, 13% of the population are entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs. That's it! Everyone else does what is asked of them.

ScaleYou is comprised of the above 5 components that allow you to multiply and maximize your effectiveness as an entrepreneur. One of our Visionaries’ favorite and most cost-effective ways of scaling their business is using WorkSitter to help them stay on track and be more productive.

If this is something that is of interest to you, you’re having just VA help, or you know somebody that can take advantage of our sessions, Book your FREE Intro Call to start your new journey today!

Autopilot Brain & Proximity Blindness

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 19:16:00 GMT

You open the door, hop into your car, fasten your seatbelt, start the ignition, and start driving. Next thing you know, you're at your destination without really remembering the drive itself. We all know the sensation.

We've done it a thousand times... it's autopilot brain. We've also all experienced situations in which we weren't able to see the forest for the trees. For instance, I have given advice to clients but yet wasn't able to see when it applied to my own business. This is called proximity blindness, which can be thought of as a form of tunnel vision. I like this notion of autopilot brain and proximity blindness together because I believe it creates incredible awareness.

The Science Behind Autopilot Brain

In our research, we have found that brain scans show when your mind wanders, it switches over to autopilot mode. Studies show that autopilot mode seems to be run by brain structures that are known as the default mode network (DMN). This phenomenal ability allows you to complete tasks quickly and accurately without having to put thought into it. For example, we do not think through every step when we make coffee. We just make it.

Human Instinct

In our experience, humans instinctively take the path of least resistance. We are programmed to conserve energy whenever and wherever possible. Entering autopilot mode is a way of conserving energy. What we find amazing about this mechanism is that you are still able to complete tasks with an incredibly high degree of accuracy. We found a study conducted in 2017 that looked at playing cards. The players who entered into autopilot mode actually played much better than those who did not. This is because the autopilot brain allows you to get into a flow.

In the Flow

One thing we consistently run into with both ourselves and entrepreneurs is that it is so difficult to get processes out of our heads and onto paper. Instead, our brain gets into a flow and files these thoughts and processes into potential autopilot mode. We believe that entrepreneurs are brilliant, we move fast, and we think up ideas quickly because that is our flow.

In our experience, this also means that we file ideas into autopilot quickly as well, which means we aren't getting it out onto paper which makes delegating, and therefore growing, difficult.

Getting Ideas Out of Our Brain

When we are aware of autopilot mode or DMN and that proximity blindness is a real thing, then we are also aware that we've already filed helpful information into the DMN section of our brain. There are a couple of strategies that help us pull ideas out of my brain. The first is awareness.

We love knowing that it isn't just us or our business. The second is, we find that coaches/mentors and assistants are invaluable. It is a great way to talk situations out, help ourselves, and help each other.

Freedom in Process

In our experience, we want to be in the flow. There is freedom in process and freedom in structure. We believe in this notion that if you give someone the layout to complete a task without spelling out every single step, they will have the ability to get to the next level around it because there isn't a question at every corner. They will not feel the pressure of constraints and will be able to let the creative juices flow, which results in a much better outcome.

The Point

As entrepreneurs, we embrace autopilot brain and proximity blindness. We work with what we've been given and how the brain is structured and going with the flow. In order to grow, to scale, we have to get out of our own way. To get all the processes and thoughts out of our heads, we need to slow down.

WorkSitter trick? We have assistants sit with us, record the sessions, DO the process live and then ask them to create a document of the steps (standard operating process).

Book your FREE Intro Call to start your new journey today!

One Day Versus Day One

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:59:00 GMT

Embrace Your Journey Towards Achievement with WorkSitter

At WorkSitter, we understand the tendency to put off dreams and aspirations, thinking that someday we'll take that extraordinary trip or achieve that dream home. It's a mindset that often lingers from a generation focused on retirement. However, we believe in a different approach. We invite you to shift your perspective and embrace the power of Day 1 – the moment you declare today as the starting point of achieving your goals.

The Power of Day One with WorkSitter

When we say "one day," it can feel distant and uncertain, like a closed door. It becomes something we desire but keep pushing back for various reasons – limited time, resources, or other obligations. But here, we encourage you to seize the present moment. Today is your Day 1, the initial step on your journey towards realizing your aspirations. It's the moment when you take ownership of your dreams and commit to making them a reality.

The Perfect Time to Plant a Tree: WorkSitter's Perspective

As WorkSitter, we believe in the Chinese proverb that says, "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago and today." This proverb reflects the notion that if you had started planting trees two decades ago, you would already be enjoying their benefits today. But if you didn't, there's no better time than the present to begin. This proverb serves as a metaphor for nurturing your dreams and shaping who you are as an entrepreneur. If you don't start today, you won't reap the rewards in the future. We're here to help you take those crucial steps forward.

Nurturing Your Dreams One Step at a Time with WorkSitter

At WorkSitter, we believe in the power of consistent progress. We encourage you to take baby steps towards your goals. It's not about achieving perfection with every move; rather, it's about embracing imperfection and taking action. Just like in the movie "What About Bob?" from 1991, where Bill Murray's character repeats the mantra "baby steps, baby steps, baby steps" to overcome his phobias. Each small action brings you closer to the front door, down the street, and eventually to your desired destination.

We understand that these steps may not always be clear. You may not know the exact outcome until you take action, and that's okay. Every little step you take brings you closer to the person you aspire to be and shapes your entrepreneurial journey. These small steps hold immense value on their own.

Shaping Your Path with WorkSitter

As a team, we invite you to reflect on your path and consider the small actions you can take to change it for the better. We believe there are no right or wrong answers, just different paths to explore. Each journey is unique, and we encourage you to embrace yours. Whatever seed you plant today will yield something incredible, shaping your life in ways you never imagined.

With WorkSitter by your side, we strive to support you as you plant those seeds of growth and progress. We want to empower you to view today as Day One, rather than simply waiting for "one day." Every little step you take with us counts towards becoming the best version of yourself and achieving the results you desire. Let's embark on this journey together, harnessing the power of Day One with WorkSitter by your side.

Book your FREE Intro Call to start your new journey today!