What They Never Tell You About “Hustling”
Even if you don't like or use the word “hustle,” you might still be making this mistake in your biz.
How's your week going so far? Checking things off your to-do list? Busy? Productive?
As you've probably noticed, “hustle” has been a hot — and divisive — word in the entrepreneurial world over the past couple of years.
It's proponents tell us that the #1 thing that sets those who WIN apart from those who LOSE is how much one hustles.
It's opponents feel an equal level of conviction that hustling is exactly what we must avoid; that it sounds awful, isn't necessary, and defeats the very point of “winning.”
Where do you stand on this issue? Personally, I find myself somewhere in the middle — and a lot of it simply comes down to how you define the word “hustle.” Because, I mean, if we're talking about hard work and perseverance, then I'm all in. I'm a firm believer that effort outweighs talent, and that there's nothing you can do to get results if you don't start by consistently showing up and doing the work.
But, on the other hand, if you're talking about any of the following definitions, then I'm OUT. (keep reading below to find out exactly why)
I presume it's obvious why we'd be against fraud, swindle, or forcing someone unceremoniously in a specific direction, so I'll move on to discussing the more hidden problem with “hustling.”
(And even if you don't like or use the word “hustle,” you might still find that you're making this mistake in your business.)
It's the idea of “busy movement and activity.” I mean, at first glance, it sounds pretty good, right? Maybe even sounds like just what the doctor ordered to accelerate your business along to the next level.
Especially if you feel like you currently aren't doing enough, or are somehow “behind,” or have really big goals.
(And that's most of us, right?)
What they never tell you about hustling…
…is that, done wrong, it's one of the worst things you can do for your business.
Why?
Because as long as you're busy keeping busy, it's next to impossible to notice the important things that actually need to get done.
It‘s the difference between ACTIVITY and PRODUCTIVITY.
The difference between “working on” something and producing something.
Simply put, the “hustle” can distract you from doing the important work that will actually grow your business.
So, YES to taking action, working hard, and not giving up until you reach your goal. But, please, don't fall into the busy trap. Don't hustle 10+ hours/day, checking meaningless tasks off your to-do list.
Instead, FOCUS.
Focus on the work that matters. Focus on setting priorities and actually prioritizing them. Focus on taking the strategic actions that actually grow your business.
What is the most important work in your business?
(And this isn't just “food for thought.” This is food for ACTION.)
Feeling overwhelmed by your business? Sounds like you need to get organized!
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