Three Key Components to Greatness

Jim Collins has some great observations about the culture of successful businesses that correlate with the culture of winning athletic teams. In his book ‘Great By Choice’ I found the central theme and three key components extremely relevant to success in any realm.

First, the central thesis of the book states “Greatness is not a function of circumstance. Greatness, it turns out, is largely a matter of conscious choice, and discipline.”

A team, organization, business or individual does not become great by happenstance. It is not a coincidence! You don’t just start a venture and suddenly greatness seems to abound. You must choose to be great. You must affirm a commitment to do all the little things required to be the best in your chosen field. The hard work, dedication, and a “no short cuts” mentality has to permeate your environment. You must be willing to do all the difficult things required to be successful.

Collins identifies three key characteristics that guide successful organizations: Fanatical Discipline, Productive Paranoia and Empirical Creativity. You must be extremely disciplined. Following the fundamentals that are the foundation to success in your chosen field. No matter what becomes the flavor of the month or the popular path of some strategic genius, stay the course.

Secondly, you must have Productive Paranoia. Joe Paterno would often say you have to “run a little scared.” Meaning you must never feel as if you have all the answers. The feeling that we have made it and have “nothing else to learn” mentality is a sign of arrogance which will certainly lead to your demise. The humility required to look at what you are doing, evaluate it honestly and assert, “we can always be better” must be part of your ethos.

Lastly, you must utilize Empirical Creativity. As you evaluate your company, team, or yourself don’t make changes for the sake of change. We have all made emotional decisions that have come back to haunt us. Or, in the process of attempting to hurry along to the realm of greatness we implore something that doesn’t fit our blueprint. Make sure that every decision is properly and thoroughly vetted. You need to ensure there is data that supports your suggestion to change.

I believe ‘Great By Choice’ is a must read because the principles have universal appeal. The real-world examples that apply to successful companies also are applicable to our teams and ultimately to individuals who are on a quest to become experts in their chosen field! Remember it doesn’t happen by accident, you must choose to be great!