Personal Achievement Article from Dr. Nick


Power Principles for
Outrageous Achievement

by Nick Lazaris, Psy.D.
The Performance Doctor

In my 28 years of coaching and consulting with individuals and organizations, I have never had anyone ask me: “Can you help me become mediocre?“ “I think I’m making too many sales, can you help me slow it down?” I like being so-so in my classes or athletic pursuits" "I don't really mind not achieving my dreams and goals.” But what I have heard so often is: “That’s good enough.” “That’s just the way I am.” “What do they expect out of me?” “I don’t think I can do any better.”

Mediocrity, or average performance, has unfortunately become the standard level of achievement for many. Outrageous achievement, on the other hand, is a quality that goes beyond the standard to a desire for enhanced performance, increased productivity and improved relationships. Let’s take a look at 4 principles that can propel us to this kind of achievement.

Power Principle #1 - Identify Your Mission & Passion

Outrageous achievers clearly identify their personal mission and align it with their day-to-day behavior. Passion about their personal goals, the next level of performance they are aiming for or the services they offer in their business leads to increased creativity, energy and a desire to achieve their personal objectives.

Power Principle #2 - Commit to Laser-Focused Actions

Eliminate any task, activity or process that gets in the way of your goals. Develop a written Action Plan that is attainable, specific, benefit-laden, has target dates, and incorporates ‘feedback partners’ that surround you with support and accountability.

Power Principle #3 - Develop the ‘Mindset of a Champion’

What is your attitude towards becoming an outrageous achiever? Norman Vincent Peale said, “Any fact facing us is not as important as our attitude towards it, for that determines our success or failure.” Expect excellence; practice perseverance; communicate confidence’ practice positive ‘self-talk’. Do you believe that you have something truly valuable to contribute to the success of your organization, relationship or personal goal?

Power Principle #4 - Commit to Focused Relationship Building

It’s been said that the fastest way to destroy the relationships essential for business and personal success is to take them for granted. Develop an ‘other-centered’ focus; seek to understand, your clients and colleagues; practice relationship networking (focusing on what you can give, not what you can get!); listen more/talk less.

“That’s just the way I am” vs. “What else can I become and achieve”. The good news is that the choice is yours!