Do the Did or the Do-Do Is Deep
“It isn’t how long will it take. It’s how far can you go?”
I love that question because it changes where we put our attention. When we ask how long something will take, we can get so focused on reaching the finish line that we miss what’s happening along the way. We rush through today, assuming we’ll have more time to enjoy our work, our people, and our lives once we arrive.
And then one day we look up and wonder how we got here.
I have a phrase for that: Do the did, or the do-do is deep. It makes me laugh, and it also gives me a needed reminder. Do the did means doing what matters while I have the chance to do it. The other half describes what can happen when I keep putting those things off. Some missed opportunities can be recovered. Others take a long time to repair.
Keep your eyes on the prize and your feet in the process.
Goals matter. I want you to have a vision for your business, your team, and your life. I also want you to enjoy the people and moments that are part of getting there. If the goal is a stronger team, the process includes the conversation you have with a team member today. If the goal is a closer relationship, the process includes putting down your phone and listening when someone you love is talking.
The prize gives us direction. The process is where we live. It’s easy to tell ourselves we’ll be more present after this project ends or when things slow down. Yet there is almost always another project, another need, another reason to wait. We can become very good at pursuing a future we want while giving too little attention to the relationships and choices that will shape that future.
What we focus on expands.
I say that all the time because I see it all the time. When I focus only on what’s unfinished, I find more reasons to feel behind. When I focus on what a person is doing wrong, I can miss where they’re growing. And when I choose to notice progress, possibility, and the people in front of me, I’m more likely to give those things the attention they deserve.
This doesn’t mean ignoring a problem or pretending everything is wonderful. It means choosing where to put your energy. You can work through a difficult season and still notice what’s good in it. You can be ambitious and still be present for dinner. You can pursue a big goal and still celebrate the small steps that move you toward it.
What needs your attention today?
Take a moment to think about the life you’re building. Who do you want beside you when you get where you’re going? What do you hope your team will remember about working with you? Which activities are moving you toward what matters most, and which ones are keeping you busy without taking you where you want to go?
Now choose one “did” for today. Have the conversation. Encourage the person. Make time for the work that reflects your values. Enjoy a moment you might usually hurry through. It doesn’t have to be grand to be important.
We don’t get to go back and pay attention to yesterday. We do get to decide what we’ll focus on today. So keep the prize in view, be present in the process, and do the did while the opportunity is yours.
I’d love to walk alongside you on the journey. Please reach out. I look forward to chatting with you soon!
Kris
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