People in every company have to make critical choices about where to spend their time and the 80/20 rule is a constant consideration. It’s the idea that 80% of your work and focus can be required by 20% of the customers. The problem is this 20% are often the smallest or least profitable customers. Without a conscious and deliberate approach, these demanding squeaky wheels can drain the resources of customer service or client engagement. Leaders of industry realize that they must be intentional and strategic about where their resources go to grow the bottom line. This principle transcends into our personal lives also.
When you think about the things that are most important to you, is that where you spend the bulk of your time? Probably not. Many people I ask this question of answer this very same way. It’s the personal application of the 80/20 rule in business. It wasn’t until I made some drastic changes in my life and work that I could change this 80/20 application to more directly reflect my personal priorities. Keep in mind that this isn’t like flipping a switch. It can take many years to adopt the changes needed to realign your life to reflect your priorities and requires consistent attention and reevaluation. It’s essentially making sure the important things stay important.
How much time have you spent to determine your personal and professional priorities? Are you prepared to make hard choices to keep the important things important when choosing new actions?
The 80/20 principle is perhaps overused in business, but it also applies to our personal priorities. It’s like a folk tale or parable, warning us to be careful when choosing where to invest our time. Where are you wasting your valuable time? Choose something you will change today. Perhaps you spend too much time cleaning your house, perhaps you can’t say no to demanding and ungrateful family members. Maybe you’re not investing enough time in school because you’re fluffing off too much. What do you need to change so the important stuff is treated as important?
This blog is part of a series from the book Discover Your Best Life by Mike Hintz. His personal, professional, and spiritual growth tools are also featured in Northlink Retreats. If this topic resonates with you consider reading the book or attending one of the upcoming Discover Your Best Life Retreats.