It is in the nature of existence for most of us that victories are small, contingent and temporary. Nonetheless, I'm feeling quite good about a couple of small victories I've had of late. This is not the place to discuss the details, but I have learned some great lessons of life over the past few years. As I've said before, you think you get to the place where you know the score, but you are wrong about that. Part of it is because you change, the rules change, everything is in flux.
So here is a rundown on some of these insights:
Hold your friends close and your enemies closer. This is an elaboration of an insight I acquired in teaching, grad school and in my family. Even if people don't want to help you, make them help you. Keep in mind the goals. Forget about your ego,; it's the job that counts.
Work smart, not hard. This becomes essential as you age and your energy level goes down.
Identify and cope with aggressive people. They are pretty useless in organizational terms and can cause a lot of damage. They may do some useful work, but then they try to take over. They demand credit and praise for every little thing they do. They always expect to win and sulk and throw tantrums when they lose or even if anyone opposes them. And they will not do you any good, that's for sure. Try to get them out of your group.
Use the telephone. Even your enemies will divulge great amounts of useful information if you get them talking on the phone. Use e-mail sparingly.
If an enterprise is obviously failing, abandon it. Don't be the one to put out the lights and close the door. Use your energies where they will count.
On the other hand, don't give up on enterprises that have a chance of winning. Ignore people who try to discourage you when you believe you are on the right track.
Play politics. Go right ahead. What is it? Are you afraid to succeed or something?
Addition: I forgot one thing: unless you are a great facilitator and everyone in your group is sane and level headed, have as few meetings as possible.
