Okay, maybe idiots is too strong. How about: stop wasting your time with people who add little or no value to your agenda. Or worse, those who detract from it?
We all just collect these people as the months and years roll by. Like junk stuffed in a drawer or cupboard.
How often do we have a clear out? Now could be an ideal opportunity to throw out some of that … okay, move away from some people who are not helping.
Perhaps the most important place to start is with those who leave you feeling negative emotions every time you engage with them. Point is, while it is easy to say you should not allow your emotions to be triggered by others, equanimity in the face of stupidity is the realm of sainthood.
Next, focus on those who consume more time that is useful. Sure, I know you want to help others, but not at the expense of progressing towards your results? Yes, I know relationships matter, but actually, it’s about having a healthy balance.
Now, if these people are not affecting your emotions – why the hell not? They are wasting your time. Get annoyed. Test the boundaries of your emotions – because with emotion you are more likely to take action and this is about a Spring clean right?
As you’re moving people out you are creating room for others. So, who would be worth spending more time with, or being around? Until you create the space there is no room for them. In addition to the emotional and time cost of tolerating idiots, you also have an opportunity cost to mitigate.
When you think of each individual, reflect seriously on the consequences of not having them around. Some add no value but could cause a lot of additional problems if you extricate yourself from their life. Others may not add value to your actual agenda, but add value to your life. Make you feel good, support you emotionally, or keep other problems at bay.
But please, elevate yourself beyond the need to have their flattery or sycophancy. Polishing up your ego should not be left to idiots. Leave that job to people you really rate!
Once you have decided who you need to take action with, carefully consider the optimum approach. I am not advocating cruelty or rudeness. There is a world of difference between telling someone they are an idiot and quietly smiling and pulling away from them. What I am encouraging here is a call to action, within the flavour of your integrity, to move more time and energy to people who nurture and further what you want to make happen, and how you wish to live.
Be kind, be compassionate and be more generous to yourself by implementing this Spring clean.
The Gautrey Influence Blog
Ever felt overlooked, unheard, or stuck in office politics? You’re not alone. The Gautrey Influence Blog breaks down the real-world strategies behind leadership, influence, and power—giving you the tools to be heard, respected, and successful. Join 35,000+ professionals getting ahead the smart way—subscribe now..
💡 Benchmark your Influence: Take the Master of Influence Assessment (Free for Subscribers!)
👉 [Subscribe & Take the Assessment]
