Page 20 - Workbook2E

3. Creative Strategy
When you create a product, new opportunity, or job, you’re using the creative strategy. For example you may develop a new way to satisfy a need for a firm that’s not currently being met. Or you could invent a new device or establish a new business or service. An advantage
of the creative approach is you’re free to use your own talents, abilities, skills, and imagination. You’re also less dependent on existing procedures or limited by other’s opinions.
The primary disadvantage is you’re always covering new ground, which often means taking a risk. You may head up dead ends that slow your progress and use up your resources before you find a path that works.
In many cases, successfully playing the game will include using a combination of all these strategies. When planning your strategy you need to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each. As we discussed earlier, it always enhances your ability when you go with your strength.
Rules of the Game
Every game has rules—the game of productivity and success is no exception. It’s always easier to win when you learn the rules and know how the game is played. You’ll learn more about the rules in detail, but first the most important rules are the:
1. Me Rule: I was born to fulfill my life purpose. I can do most anything I set my mind to!
2. You Rule: The more I know about the other team, the better my chances.
3. 24-Hour Rule: Everybody in the game has only 24 hours a day to play.
4. Focus Rule: Every game is played one play at a time.
5. Right-Tool Rule: Use the right tool or ability for each Job.
Playing by the Rules will help you play to win. In the game of life, some people have so little confidence they expect to lose—and they usually do. Maybe they lack focus or don’t bother to do their homework on
the competition. You need to plan and practice so you can play to win. Always give it your best shot; you may not win every play, but you’ll greatly improve your chances of overall success.
“Look! This pokey thing really works!”
16 Workbook 2: Improve Your Financial Life