The first time they grabbed that golf club was not a pretty sight. The same goes for their first public speech or a disjointed meeting. You can gain mastery over anything you really want to if you will practice, focus your thought, and hunt hard for your rhythm.



What is your 'rhythm?' Rhythm is developed over time. It is the direct result of having a goal and then doing what it takes to accomplish that goal so often that your heart, mind and body act in unison. You're no longer conscious of precisely how or what you are doing. It seems effortless, yet is highly effectual.

Can you conjure up one thing at which you excel. How did you get to this level of proficiency? Was it by accident? Was it by doing this task two, perhaps three times a year or more often? Did it just happen without you thinking of it over and over again, continually coming up with ways to do it better and better? What was your level of passion?

You may be saying to yourself "Yes, it takes time and patience to get better at anything." Rhythm is more than that. Rhythm takes you to a higher level. It's not necessary to achieve perfection in a week.

I have friends and clients who get excited about a new idea and try it out for a week, perhaps even a month, only to come back to me deflated: "This just doesn't work for me; it may work for others, but not for me." Here are some examples:

George: I tried journaling once a week for a month and it just never felt comfortable.

Mary: I ran one ad amazing in the paper and got no results. I'll never do that again.

Randy: I've just never had the patience to listen to other's opinions. They take too long to get to the point. And, anyway, I am generally right.

Each of these leaders has a great opportunity to succeed if only they developed a rhythm to match their goals. George could have gotten deep inside himself to the wisdom that is not otherwise accessible and unleashed it.

Mary would have allowed her prospects to find her more easily with a rhythm and flow of ads, not just one. Randy would have blown his world open with new ideas had he just developed the rhythm of listening and learning from others.

I know for myself that if I get out of the rhythm of writing and speaking, it is very difficult to get back on track. Think over what rhythms you've created this week for yourself. If you are stuck in any one area, ask yourself: How can I find a new rhythm to accelerate me?" or "How can I strengthen an existing routine to turn it into a seamless rhythm?" Enjoy your discoveries and have a great week!