Here’s to the lazy ones
Next time you’re in a job interview and asked for your strengths, you’re probably not going to tell them you’re super lazy.
“Lazy” feels like such a pejorative word, but what if we reclaimed it – at least a little bit?
What if being a little bit lazy was actually the key to being more effective as a leader?
I personally love being lazy, in that I hate spending unnecessary effort in order to get the outcome I want. Will I work hard and put in massive effort? Yes, absolutely, when that’s required. But it seems pretty bonkers to do it when it’s not needed… doesn’t it?
Lazy says: Why stay up to midnight perfecting this when I’ll do it faster and better after a good sleep?
Lazy says: Why write 40 slides when 3 will get the decision made?
Lazy says: Why spend all day in meetings when one clear conversation would move things faster?
Maybe what looks like laziness from the outside is really just efficiency, or even … wisdom?
Because leadership isn’t about endless effort. It’s about creating outcomes with the least wasted motion.
So the next time you feel a bit “lazy,” ask yourself: am I avoiding the work, or am I finally doing it effectively?
Until next week,
Madeleine
PS If you’d like me to work with you as you drive a healthy balance between effort and impact in your leadership, let me know and please share with anyone you think may benefit.
I help accomplished professionals untangle difficult career questions so they can thrive in work and life.
1. Want to find out more? Send me a note and let me know.
2. Feeling unfulfilled, overworked or unclear about what next? Work with me to identify what is holding you back and make a plan for more powerfully and enjoyably pursuing goals that matter to you. Contact me to find out more.
3. Join my list to receive regular articles and insights, early news about programs and offers, and respect for your inbox.
4. Follow me on LinkedIn to stay connected.
5. Prefer to talk? Choose a time and it will drop right into my schedule.
Click below to share this on your socials…