Can You Answer This One Simple Question About Last Week?

"If today were the last day of my life, would I want to do what I'm about to do today?"

- Steve Jobs

I learned a lot of valuable lessons when I first became a manager. Books kept me motivated and informed and articles allowed me to adjust and learn. I used to lead team meetings on Mondays and prepared slides and agendas during weekends so that I can get the team ready for the week. I wanted to build a positive culture with the team and during our meeting so I began to implement a few things that I thought would assist with my objective. What was my great idea? It was one simple question.

I was shockingly stumped when I asked the group this one simple question and no one was able to answer me. For two Mondays in a row the group had difficulty answering my question and I realized that this was something most people have difficulty answering.

What was the simple question I asked? It was this question: What three things did you accomplish last week? That was it. I wanted to know three accomplishments from each individual. I wanted to create a culture where we discussed things that we’re proud. However, it seemed as though most people in our group didn't think much about their accomplishments and most of them couldn't even remember what they did the week before.

Every week we go through a busy schedule and time passes us by. We might be working ten hour days when all of a sudden the weekend arrives. Yet, we never stop to ask ourselves if the things we are doing are adding value to our lives. Are the things keeping us busy throughout the week, things that are getting us one step closer to accomplishing our goals or are they just things that keep us busy?

Can you answer my question: What three things did you accomplish last week? Can you come up with three things or can you only think of one? 

Eventually, I made this question a part of our meeting for the next few years and it created a culture of self-reflection and positivity. Sometimes, someone would say that they didn’t have any accomplishments but I would push them to think of something, anything, and eventually something came to mind. It’s crucial to develop a healthy habit of self-realization, especially when it comes to your success. Yes, there are many things you could have done better last week, but there are certain things you did well. Be proud of your accomplishments. 

Don't forget to share this blog so you can encourage others: family, co-workers, friends. Give them something to get motivated! You never know what they might be going through. A few words of encouragement can go a long way.