July 21, 2014
Back to Basics
“First principles” can be defined as core beliefs, fundamental truths or the foundation of an objective. They can be scientific or personal, and can be distinct to an individual or enterprise.
Many of us start out with the good intention of serving others through a product, service or idea but then find ourselves overwhelmed by shifting pressures of business, family or culture. We begin to confuse flexibility of process and style with surrender of goals; the place where we keep focus on those goals is first principles.
Getting back to basics can be as straightforward as reading and re-reading a mission statement, clearing clutter from our work space, unloading or redirecting distractions from our calendars, and learning to say “let me get back to you on that” instead of a reflexive “yes.”
If we take a minute, take a breath and take a look at our first principles, we can remind ourselves of our good intentions. First principles are our friends.
Now’s a good time.
