ValuExecBlog

Rework Caffeine Fix # 8: Scratch your own itch

Something worth thinking about as you start your day. Again from the authors of Rework at 37 Signals:

Rework Caffeine Fix # 8: Scratch your own itch:

     "The easiest, most straightforward way to create a great product or service is to make something you want to use. If you're solving someone else's problem, you're constantly stabbing in the dark. When you build what you need, you can also assess the quality of what you make quickly and directly, instead of by proxy. Best of all, this 'solve your own problem' approach lets you fall in love with what you're making."

Yours in execution,

ian   

Rework Caffeine Fix # 7: Make a Dent in the Universe

I just love this pearl of wisdom from the Authors of Rework at 37 Signals:

Rework Caffeine Fix # 7: Make a Dent in the Universe

     "To do great work, you need to feel that you're making a difference. This doesn't mean you need to find a cure for cancer. It's just that your efforts need to feel valuable. You should feel an urgency about this too. You don't have forever. This is your life's work. What you do is your legacy. If you're going to do something, do something that matters."

Yours in execution.

ian

Rework Caffeine Fix # 6: Be a Starter

What a good way to start the day with this gem from the authors of Rework:

Rework Caffeine Fix # 6: Be a Starter

     "Let's retire the term entrepreneur. Instead of entrepreneurs, let's just call them starters. Everyone should be encouraged to start his own business. You just need an idea, a touch of confidence, and a push to get started."  (Page 28)

 

Yours in execution.

ian

Rework: Caffeine Fix # 5: Workaholism

Herewith our morning caffeine fix from the authors of Rework to get our brains - well, reworking.

 

Rework Caffeine Fix # 5: Workaholism

     "If all you do is work, you're unlikely to have sound judgments. Your values and decision making wind up skewed. No one makes sharp decisions when tired. Workaholics aren't heroes. They don't save the day, they just use it up. The real hero is already home because she figured out a faster way to get things done." (Page 26)

 

Yours in execution.

ian 

Rework: Caffeine Fix # 3: Planning is Guessing

Good morning all:

Herewith our Caffeine Fix # 3 from the authors of Rework:

 

Rework Caffeine Fix # 3: Planning is Guessing

     "Decide what you're going to do this week, not this year. Figure out the next most important thing and do that. It's OK to wing it. Just get on the plane & go."

 

Yours in execution.

ian 

Rework: Caffeine Fix # 2: Failure is not a rite of passage

Herewith our daily caffeine fix from the authors of Rework:

 

Rework Caffeine Fix # 2: Failure is not a rite of passage

     "Success is the experience that actually counts. It's exactly how nature works. Evolution doesn't linger on past failures, it's always building upon what worked. So should you." (Page 17)

 

Yours in execution,

ian  

Rework: Caffeine Fix # 1: Ignore the Real World

Every so often you come across a book that is packed with great insights. 'Rework' is one such book. (Rework: Fried,J. Hansson,D.H; Crown Publishing Group; 2010). Because it is such a great book, I have decided to share with you a Rework pearl every day. Short and precise, these daily pearls will supplement your caffeine fix every morning and get your brain off to a flying start. Of course, they are not a substitute for buying the book but nevertheless, let me know what you think. 

So, let's start with the first:

Rework # 1: Ignore the Real World:

        "The real world isn't a place, it's an excuse. It's a justification for not trying. It has nothing to do with you." (Rework; Page 14)

 

Yours in execution,

ian