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Monthly Archives: December 2007

Top 3 Elton John songs that remind me of my middle brother

3. “Someone Saved My Life Tonight” – because when we were kids he changed the title to something rude that made me laugh
2. “Bennie and the Jets” – because he can whistle like the whistle in the second half of the song, and I never could

and…

1. “Daniel” – because Daniel, my brother, you are older than me

I got some good advice

Some wise and seasoned professionals gave me some good advice over the last three years.

  • Show me the output.
    This is my paraphrase. To others, it might be stated as “a bias for action”. Either way, I try to remind myself that the point of work is to produce.
  • Have a methodology.
    Not only will being methodical help order my work, but also it reduces stress. I’d rather spend time creating solutions instead of winging it without a methodology.
  • You are entitled.
    This one has a wide range of meaning and applicability, from getting what I need to do my job to getting some distance when I need it.
  • You are not the client.
    This work is all about relationships and teamwork, but I am the advisor (and sometimes only the catalyst) – not the client.
  • Are you hired to do what you’re told, or is it your job to make expert recommendations?
    Like the others, this question had a profound effect on me. I see all the ones I look up to following this rule.
  • Finally, from the great Tom Peters: Fail. Forward. Fast.
    This small phrase sums up so much great advice. Basically, it means “make mistakes”. Got an idea? Act on it, fast. Learn from what worked and what didn’t work. Fix it, extend it, start over, rebuild it if necessary. But make progress. See what didn’t work and learn from the experience. Iterate.