Thinking & Doing – The Art of Execution

The “Execution Quotient” (XQ).

“The do-ers are the major thinkers. The people that really create the things that change our industry are both the thinker and do-er in one person”

That was Steve Jobs’ view.

“Changing an industry” may be a lofty goal, but we all talk about transforming our businesses, our processes, our customer experience, our technology stack  . . . . .

The reality is that progress, innovation and transformation are not just about “big ideas”.

The reality is we need to exercise our “execution muscle”.

Like me, I’m sure you have observed environments where meetings, Zoom/TEAMS calls and emails dominate the working day.

Lots of ideas, very little real progress.

We have all experienced those environments.

And it is very tempting and easy to fall into that trap. We have an increasing array of diversions that get in the way of “Getting *It Done”.

Fear of failure is also a factor. Fear is a powerful and destructive cause of delay, avoidance, inactivity and procrastination.

The assumption that thinking and doing are different roles leads to poor results because the people who come up with the ideas don’t live with the consequences of making them real. You could say the same for consultants  😉

We all need to be “Thinkers” who are also high energy “Doers”.

Otherwise, we make no progress.

Execution IS innovation, the art of trial and error, of successes and mistakes and learning from both equally.

I was reminded of this by a dusty copy of “The Art of Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done” by Larry Bossidy and Ram Charan.

The authors describe the traits of execution-centric leaders (“Thinker Doers”)

1. Deep Engagement in the details of the business, people, and operations.
2. Realistic Thinking focusing on facts and (brutal) honesty.
3. Coach and Mentor, providing clear feedback, expectations, and accountability.
4. Persistence & Determination in follow-through.
5. Culture and Habit Catalyst, reinforcing behaviors for accountability, self-discipline, and honesty.
6. Navigators, connecting the big ideas to the basic tasks, ensuring alignment. 

Sadly, I think I am running at just 2 out of 6 currently, but that gives me a development opportunity!

Not so great for my “Imposter Syndrome” though . . . 

You can see a brief clip of Steve Job’s discussing “Thinkers & Doers” here . . . 

You can read a summary of “The Art of Execution: The Discipline of Getting Things Done” here . . .  

Thinking & Doing – The Art of Execution

Thanks for reading . . . .