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projects and lile time managing their own well-
being. To manage my energy levels, I borrowed a
concept from project management: the control
chart. It is a simple spreadsheet that tracks seven
variables by day. By tracking these variables, I
can ensure that I eat, sleep and exercise in ways
that enhance my capabilities. Filling in the chart
takes less than a minute per day. Aer collecting
data for only a month, I was able to gain insights
into what propels me. For instance, I learned that
sleep is my primary performance driver. When
I don't get enough sleep, I am easily fatigued. In
that state, I tend to avoid big decisions and put
off complex tasks; but, when I am energized, I
can tackle strategic decisions and push things
forward more effectively. What is your primary
performance driver?
Stay Agile and Flexible
You must remain nimble and open to new
possibilities. Never let yourself get stuck in a
5
rut. To prevent mental ossification, consider
staying curious, trying new things and firing
yourself every nine to 12 months. I take a long
vacation once per year under the pretense that
I was just fired. When I return, I do not look to
pick up where I le off. Rather, I use my renewed
perspective to ask fundamental questions, such
as what bozo put that stupid policy in place?
(That bozo was the old me I fired recently.) For
this strategy to be effective, I need to completely
disconnect and let the fields go fallow so they can
be tilled and renewed upon my return.
Choose Your Own Adventure
Leadership need not be an elusive skill to develop.
These five practical steps can help you improve your
ability to weather any storm as a leader. The winds of
change will continue to blow whether we like it or not.
Either you can be a spectator to your destiny or you can
architect it. The way you navigate what's ahead is your
choice. P2P
MARK THOROGOOD
Mark Thorogood is the Director of
Application Services for Perkins
Coie. In 2013, he received the ILTA
Distinguished Peer Award for
Leadership. While in the U.S. Army,
Mark received the Distinguished
Leadership Award. He was also
inducted into the International
Honor Society for Computing and
Information Disciplines. Mark can
be contacted at mthorogood@
perkinscoie.com.
Captain of the Ship: Becoming a Leader Who Can Weather Any Storm
SMART MOVES
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