Digging deep...

We often need to find that extra bit of energy and the expression of "Digging Deep" is used  as a badge of honour.  "It is brilliant the way Pete is able to Dig Deep when the project gets tough".   If the strategy is to just work longer and hard then it may well be to Pete's detriment and not the organisation.  Whilst Pete might be remarkable what price is Pete paying for finding this extra source of energy.

In her book "The Gifts of Imperfection" Brené Brown suggests we look at it another way.  The context of the book is understanding how we can live as wholehearted individuals.  She explains that whilst living a whole hearted existence they do still Dig Deep but they do with a very different take.  Using DIG as mnemonic this is what they do:-

D - Deliberate - They get deliberate with their thoughts and feelings about their intentions

I - Inspired - They explore whether they have different choices

G - Going - They take action

The next time  you feel overwhelmed and you are staring at your screen, take a step away and try the DIG process. 

• Deliberate - Ask yourself why you are feeling overwhelmed and highlight the top priorities on your to-do list
• Inspired - Take a moment to explore the options can you delegate/defer or do a task another way
• Going - Decide on the first action you will take

In order to begin the DIG process take short breaks, if you carry on sitting at your desk you will still feel the overwhelm.  A change of scenery alters your thinking and is a good reset button. 

DIG is also a good problem solving tool, take time to get deliberate with your thinking around a problem.  Brainstorm on paper or with others, inspiring ideas and then take agreed actions together.

Last week was my first week back from holiday and there were moments where I could have just worked longer and harder, but I took my time to practice DIG.  Taking short breaks and re-evaluating my progress made the work seem inspiring and challenging in a new way.

Please do get in touch if you would like a one to one coaching session bev@nuggetsoflearning.co.uk