Switch strategies

YES to saying "NO!". It is a lesson you don't really get until you personally learn it that you cannot build a career, and empire, a relationship, anything - by saying "Yes!" to everything. But you have to go through the growth period with it and find where your strength really is. Tipping point comes (and if you're aware, that inner voice won't let you miss it) when you absolutely know you can't keep doing everything. You see your path. Sometimes it's in a scary place, but there's absolutely no way you can walk anywhere else.

Or you can plow ahead until you get back to where you started.

Not the smartest thing I've done, but I know where I've been ain't where I want to be.

Thanks, Derek - I've forwarded this tow several of my clients already...let's see what they make of it (some really need to change course, some need to change the course, and some need to 'be a freak!') Let's see how it goes...and thanks!

This is a good one. Stay open-minded, keep the eyes open. I remember one of your earlier advices in mind, about doing things that fear me. The changes are good.

It sounds like a good philosofi. "Open to the world - giving to the world".

Thanks Derek. I'm working on 2 books in 2016. HELL YEAH!

Joe

More great advice, always timely. Keep rocking and writing!

Great. Thanks, Derek!

Thanks Derek
That's something I needed to hear.

I 2nd your advice about doing everything and anything different that comes your way. Get out of your comfort zone. In 1978, I sent out one of the thousands of cassettes and reel to reel tapes I probably sent out. I sent it to Dr. Demento, never expecting to hear back. Well, I heard back, it changed my life and took me in a totally different direction from where I thought my career needed to go. My song "FISH HEADS" became one of the most well known and loved novelty songs of the past 40 years. Got me 4 or 5 record deals. Made me a lot of big bucks, fame, notoriety, got me on the biggest tv shows,etc. You NEVER know....
No way! You're the “Fish Heads” guy? Wow! It's an honor. And yeah, perfect example of “you never know”. — Derek

great post
I feel like I'm at this point but I'm having trouble discovering what's next. But this post was like a poke to wake me up to the fact that it's time to take action.

Thanks.

Awesome as usual,how you do anything is how you do everything will stay a long time with me.

Great article. It appears that you have been keeping tabs on me for a while Derek. Thanks so much Very timely.

No is a word like can't. It's final.
I prefer to say "not right now", or "maybe later". A couple of times I said no and looking back I wish I've used a "softer" word. Things can change in an instant on both sides of a"no", so I try to avoid the word and use something that leaves the door open to possibilities. Yes is a whole different story!!

I love how you pack so much into so few lines. I need to learn how to say more with less.

And with that, I'm going to stop writing. :)

A pleasure to read your writing as always Derek. Your incite is thought provoking. Your courage is encouraging. Your views on the world and how it works always amaze me. Thanks!

Thanks Derek! I'm working on it. Had some twists today. Tend to focus on staying the course, this message is timely. Alex

P. S. Thanks for the .now stuff. Not there either, but my mind is looking in every direction and just need to focus. I'm thankful for what I have but always looking ahead.

Derek, this post couldn't have come at a better time for me. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with the world!

Thx so much for article this gave me a few ideas ...

Hi Derek, very rewarding advice and well laid out...I can see it comes from your life's experience, I must add there is a lot of luck involved, many thanks.

Respectfully yours, Sam Stray

I'm on it.....Thank You Sir !!!!!!!!!!!!

This advice sort of goes hand in hand with Einstein's definition on insanity.
Doing the same thing over and over again and expect ion a different result.

Thank you Derek for the well written thoughts and advice. I have been at that cross roads place again....do I continue with writing more new songs...when they come they come and I already have a few more down... do I go back and do the music video I've f thought of for awhile...do I do all piano originals I have...do I get together some band folks to play at events....do I complete the book I wrote with mostly counseling advice from past articles and a bit about my music. Maybe, not one or the other...but keep on and switch one to another, or new opportunities always are energizing. ALL GOOD! Thanks again for your timely advice. Best to you and your endeavors always! Keep up the great work!

perfect advice for this moment!!!!

Tks for writing AND sharing..
judy joy jones

You can't imagine how apropos this is in my life and creative avenues trajectory.

You rock.

Thanks Derek. I think you are right on target. I'm use to calling it jumping in with both feet and if things don't work out right you jump out with both feet, but then jump back into something else...with both feet.

Another good post Derek. Thanks. I think its a good idea to switch strategies if you keep hitting a dead end over and over again. As for me, I'm one for driving deeper down the path, obstacles and all. Now the neat thing is, when you come upon a side trail. It usually leads to a short-cut. Now that's success.

Thanks Derek,

This is excellent advice that I need right now! Thanks for the book suggestion and notes.

Looking for that one thing that works to focus on...

You are the best! Annie

Classic Sivers. Keep em coming, Derek!

A few people have been saying that doing the thing you are most afraid of (within some limits, obviously) is what you probably need to do to escape from a well-trodden path.
I'm about to check that one out in the context of solo performance. When I was a kid I used to climb trees because I was afraid of heights. It was (almost) always fine once I was up there. Just a thought for the mix.

Be a freak resonates so deep. Thank you for this perfectly timed bit of inspiration and for making me feel better about having chosen a distinctly non-linear path.

There is an element of risk with this approach. Easier to take risks as an individual as opposed to someone supporting a family on one income. I love the sentiment but struggle with how to apply the ideology in a situation where there are other mouths to feed. I want to be a good provider at the same time as being a risk taker and innovator but it is hard to marry the two. Peace out.

Thought provoking and true, especially for those of us who don't have a reverse gear.

Yes! On a 90km mountain bike ride in rough country, we got to the 80km mark and encountered really thick undergrowth. We decided to "stay the course" and ended up getting stranded in remote wilderness overnight with no food or water. It wasn't until we decided to turn around and retrace our steps the next morning that we were able to eventually get home - tired scratched, hungry and wiser.

What was support to be an 8 hour adventure turned into a 40 hour ordeal. There are some pics of our sorry ordeal here if you're interested http://nbe.me/5017

The bottom line for me is that "staying the course" might sound tough and hard-core, but it's often unwise.

Well said, Derek!

GREAT advice Derek. At 67 yrs of age I've changed course multiple times and every time opportunity stood in my path.

Have a great 2016
Steve

I love the way you chose to describe this process. It reminds me of working in Bangalore when, because of a myriad of typically Indian experiences like a morning temple procession or an auto rickshaw strike or a random road closure, one was forced to constantly stop, rethink, change directions etc., just to get to work in the morning. The key, as you describe, was to keep innovating as you went along. And sometimes even stop for a cup of chai on the way. Thank you for this gift of sharing. I also loved your recent podcast on the Tim Ferriss show. Blessings always Derek.

Perfect timing for this message, Derek. Thank you for going All-In on this lesson.

This came at just the right time for me. Very helpful. Thank you!

Thanks Derek. I've been giving it all a go in my business and the small things do add up to something bigger. Now I'm saying NO to the things that don't get me where I want to go. Cheers

"How you do anything is how you do everything. You're being tested."

So true!

I've been trying to get this across to some youngsters (younger than me, at least). They all seem to have the same problem, and I can't quite get through... I will continue to encourage them, but I'm also dead set on finding a helpful way to get the message across. This post will certainly help.

Thanks Derek!

As Norton said to Ralph Cramden when he realized part of some awful situation "You have reached the first plateau."

This popped up in my inbox just now and couldn't have come at a better time ... I lost my job at noon today. Sure, I cried for a few minutes (okay, who am I kidding... I bawled for the entire 45 minute drive home, mostly out of concern for my 3 year old). Composed myself over an ice cream from Sonic, walked around the mall for an hour in my sunglasses (how cool did I look... yeah, I'm an ugly crier) and popped a squat on a bench and started to let a few close friends know the news. Although my termination was in violation of many things (gender, breastfeeding, and so on which my lawyer will handle tomorrow), it's a breath of fresh air...until the bank account runs dry. I want to make my hobby (yoga) my job and my job (web development) my hobby. This may be the tipping point. While I'm good at both my hobby and my job, I never ever want to see myself wasting away at a desk for the rest of my life. I've had a good cry but tomorrow morning I will wake up, wipe my eyes, take my daughter to preschool and figure out how to open my yoga studio. It will be tempting to say yes when recruiters call with more desk job opportunities, and I might take them up on their offer for the short term, but my goal now is to have a job that keeps me fit and healthy and enables me to enjoy life with my daughter. Fingers crossed.

Derek,

You should build a school- the way you want it.

It would really help leave a legacy and help make the world a better place.

Derek, this is exactly how I handled my paths to a successful career....During the first few years, I traveled a straight path to test the waters, working on VERY low budget movies. The very first intersection I came to changed my path by getting a job at a sound house that hired both union and non-union editors. It was there that I met and worked with big time editors. They got to know me, noticed my skills were above average, and recommended me to their union supervisors, thus, making a dramatic turn to the big time. With one major film, I was on my way like being sucked into a vacuum. That path stayed straight all the way to my retirement. I was luckier than most, I believe.

As usual, some great advice Derek. I probably spend more time in the exploration phase than the focus phase (and pivot back and forth more quickly) but am sometimes delighted to find that a contact I made in an earlier "explore" phase becomes valuable in the current phase.

As always, you challenge conventional thinking in such a common sense way... Thank you for being so awesome!

Very true and excellent advice😍
Thanks
Michele

Reactions:

1. This is a great insight!

2. I'm kind of annoyed that I didn't think of it myself. It's so obvious when you say it like that.

It did occur to me years ago that the path to your destination can be meandering as you try to figure out what your destination should be. It never occurred to me that twists and turns could be parts of a logical path to the destination even when you knew exactly where you wanted to go.

Highly appreciate this post. More complete form for the Hell Yeah philosophy.

Thanks, Derek. ☺

I love the last paragraph. The destination is not the end of the road; its just a stop along the way. An intersection to take you to your next destination. Thanks for the insight!

So timely! I am at another turning point where I actually need to focus focus when I am used to staying open to every possibility. Thank you for reminding me that we need to switch back and forth between modes to adapt to the timing and the situation, not keep taking the same stance every time.

Very good advice. Your shared wisdom always arrive right on time. Thanks, Derek.
- Rongen

I think there is a spectrum, and maybe because I am planted in the grey area now. Say yes to mostly everything but start weeding out the stuff to say a polite "no" to, based on past experiences and time wasted on bad leads.

happiness>>...happiness>>
happiness>>
*happiness is just around
the corner!* >>>
;o)

Love love love! Keep moving forward

Dude this was some of the greatest life advice ever. I'm at a stage where I'm doubling down. It's amazing how much speed and momentum you can achieve when you start cutting out everything from your life that does not feed into that one thing. It's like that scene in the movie where people are throwing crap off the airplane so that they can achieve liftoff. Doing things in moderation is the dream killer.

Sweet article. I call this "Michael Vicking." When I used to play some Madden football, I loved the ability to scramble with the QB. Currently, I'm in that scrambling position trying to find that path where I'll be "double-downing." Got a few set backs, but that is when we "switch strategies" right? I can only salivate when I can reach that "hell yeah or no" moment. Keeps me hungry though. Got lots of work still to do!

Thanks for the article/pep-talk.

Love this Derek! Very timely for me, as others have posted as well. I'll be reading this every day this week to keep digesting it.

Great advice, thanks Derek! Too many people are saying "life's a struggle in this economy".. maybe it's time for a change in direction :)

Derek!

As always, great advice. Just today I was checking out a new book recommended by Seth Godin, "Persuadable", about how great leaders are able to change approach and change their minds about things. Ties nicely with your post, reminding us to not be too attached to any strategy.

For me it's sometimes scary to make those direction choices, but that's how I know I'm on to something. Fear is a great road sign!

Thanks Derek! I just ordered both editions of What got you here won't get you There.
I am reading The Message of You, by Judy Carter. Her online university starts Feb 1st. I am going to take some classes. All the best to you. Thanks for keeping in touch!
Marilyn

I said yes to a number of things just because I thought that it would help me. It helped me get into a little debt. Now I think things a little differently. I also gained some confidence in my self. I wrote a song about Nashville, fancy that a Brit living in Canada. I asked local talent to record the song. After a few years I got fed up and recorded it myself. Sang all the chorus parts. Now I believe in myself a little more. I hope you all do. Good luck. Thanks for the lessons Derek.

Derek
Great advice. We sometimes like to do the same things over and over again. Thanks for writing.

Take Care,

Brent

Just what I needed right at this moment.
Thanks DS!

You never know where the opportunities will be, and if you think you need to go a little further to get to one, you may be passing one by.

I like to think I'm following a lot of this advice. But I also think I need to "be more of a freak". I've started to double down, but it's time to go full throttle.

"Don't take a half step where a full step is required." Or something like that.

Sometimes you need to be open-minded - it exposes you to opportunities. Sometimes you need to be close-minded - it filters out the noise. All times you need to know which one to be.

I write songs for kids with a Gemini twist. In this niche market, I am niche of the niche... Here's to casting big nets in right places.

I hope you enjoy my latest video:
PENNIES and DOLLARS
www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFQ65akO9nI

I'm in college and starting my career. I like the fact that you should say yes to everything when you are young. I have gotten so much out of it. It hurt and was uncomfortable but the experiences were awesome. I am still growing and saying yes. I am now learning to say no to simplify my life into what I really want. Still flexible but more calculating. Great post.

I like this. Important to note that these strategies are not based on timing either. If you want to try something new, you might be in the YES or no stage in part of your life, but it is time for the yes to everything strategy in another part of your life.
Exactly! After selling my company, I went back to the “yes to everything” approach for a few years. It was tempting to do more of the same (head down and focused), but that wasn't the right strategy for real growth for me anymore. — Derek

Thanks for the insight. Truly, this advice is easy to say but hard to practice. The discomfort of change is a powerful enemy.

Awesome insight as always Derek. I'm actually in the midst of this right now with the launch of a non profit, The S.M.A.R.T. Foundation, Inc.! It is getting ready to move from our virtual drawing board to the start up, physical office, providing the services to the client population we are hoping to serve. Please take a look at our website sometime to get a deeper perspective into who we are and what we do. It's online at this address: www.thesmartfoundation.net

Great advice.

I'm just not sure if I would have heeded to this when I most needed it. There seems to be something about having to go through being stubborn (in a mostly good way) and sticking to your guns through thick and through thin because you are committed to achieving your goals and making it happen that does have its own true grit--that is a tried-and-true maxim that has worked for millennia. I would like to suggest that once a person goes through the sticking to it through thick and thin, to then read this good counsel and learn how to switch it up.

Stick-to-it-ness as the fundamental...
Switch Strategies as the advanced.

IMHO one needs to earnestly prove oneself with the fundamental before moving to the advanced for it to be "tangible."

Hey Derek,

Y'know, I've heard you talk in interviews but I've never really read anything by you.

I'm switching roads right now. It ain't easy but I can't afford to slow down.

I find that I lose interest in roads when I stop gaining knowledge or thrills.

And yet, I have people that count on me, so the pressure is on. I have to continue and change lanes fast, no pit stops, no nuthin'.

Feels good to be able to read something that's just right for this specific moment in my life. Happy accidents I guess.

Cheers.

This is better than 99.99% of the crap that posted online everyday.
Signature
Your biggest fan
Rod

Insightful as always. Thank you Derek.

Am at the early in my career stage and definitely trying all I can. Some good results, but lots to do.

It's funny that you sent me this, I've actually been working on implementing this strategy recently, and have recommended it to a few people that i've talked to.

It just makes sense, after I heard you talk about it on the Tim Ferriss podcast I knew I needed to start using it. What really got me was your tone of voice when you said how after you started using it things got significantly better for you.

This is just what i've been on a search for, a simple way to make better, and quicker decisions.

Since using it i've realize that some times I want to say yes, but it's not a hell yes. Those are the hardest ones to say no to.

Thanks for the good read!

Totally on target for me.

Each year I keep a journal and give it a theme. Two years running it's been "Year of Balance," as I struggled to ratchet my work-life balance toward less work, more life. This year it's "Year of Connecting." I've got the welcome mat out for those "lottery tickets," aka other people.

Another great book that fits your theme is "So Good They Can't Ignore You," by Cal Newport. He's a proponent of the doubling down.

This reminds me of a philosophy I've had for most of my life, "Burn your bridges behind you". It's rather extreme but usually when its time to move on, its forever.

Good advice. Thank you for sharing, as always. Now, to apply it.

The timing of this article was helpful. I was about to revert to some self-sabotage (saying 'no') at the moment when it is definitely time for extreme action.

I am approaching the intersection in my life. I am a civil engineer and in our profession I have come to realize that kissing clients asses and self sacrifice is valued over personal productivity. Nothing is new in our field of work and communication overhead and the invisible decision prevail in the office. However, Derek, your thoughts and ideas are inspiring me to continue to push myself and continually learn and be productive. I study, read, and write every day now which is a brand new lifestyle for me. I used to let life make decisions for me. Not any longer!

Great post,Derek....as you mentioned in TFS that you said "yes" to everything earlier in your career like being stage performer...it did turn out great for your career...i have kind of chosen same path ☺.

You mentioned one of the directives,
Not to stay loyal to anything.

I think it's appropriate since attachments prohibits one from growing.

But it still feels bad...at least i feel...i feel sort of guilt of being disloyal.

I would like to know your views on this.
How to deal with emotions in such case?

Thanks for putting out such good work, Derek...love your work.

Take care ☺!
I define loyalty in the very broad sense, and it applies to this post. Just because you once told everyone “I say yes to everything”, don't be loyal to your past statements or past strategies. Instead of thinking of it as disloyal, think of it as updating your strategy to match the newest situation. — Derek

Great advice, Derek!

Loved this. So true. Thanks.

Great advice. I sometimes wonder how much of these can be taught to a teenager (ie somebody starting out), and how much needs to be experienced.

Any thoughts anybody?

Great post, as usual, Derek! Perfect timing in my life right now. Thank you for sharing!

I ve heard metaphors similar to this but this mental illustration of taking turns through life to get to our happy places really makes the point seem achievable.

Excellent advice! I am in the first stage. I have found my passion as an Artistic Training Consultant and now I'm working out how to make it a lucrative career! Who to sell the service to and how!
Thank you so much for your help and advice!
-W.

Good advice for any age

Derek, how did you know this is exactly what I needed to hear right now?! I literally woke up this morning questioning my current and thinking I needed to just "stay the course." But I think it's time to make a turn instead...

"You don't get extreme results without extreme actions." Awesome

This couldn't be more true. I have met so many people who are trying to "stay the course" and feel like if they just buckle down like the Silent Generation then they will either prosper or find whatever it is that they are searching for. But in reality, they need to heed this advice and make a turn. Sometimes it's not the "right" turn into a gazillion dollars but it's something different that will take you into unknown territories to help you expand your knowledge and who
knows, you may just find something absolutely amazing!
Thanks for posting this Derek!
Xo
Kirst

How did you send this to me right when I needed it?! I just made a huge turn in the right direction.

Wise words from a wise man. I was first introduced to your brilliance a little over a month ago when I caught your interview on Tim Ferris' podcast. Since then I have been a fan and told multiple people about you. The circus musician story was inspiring, as well as the humble beginnings of CDBaby. Keep being an avid student of life so that you may continue to share what you have learned filtered through your unique thought process. I dig it!

Thanks for the advice, it really helped me assess the next step forward.
Cheers
Alan

Derek,

Your thoughts are always so clear and easy to put into place. I really appreciate it.

Please keep sharing your ideas and experiences with us.

Thanks Derek, I love the "Double Down and Focus!" idea. Just what I needed!

I like this! Recently I quit my day job and I'm working full time on my own business. It was the moment when I took the turn to saying 'yes' to this one thing that I believe will lead me to success.

Derek,
Excellent article.
And very timely for me in particular.
Thanks for sharing....!

I want to thank you for your advice! Words cannot express how grateful I am. I am implementing your pearls of wisdom in my life and it's already paying dividends. Keep up the great work Derek. You are an inspiration!!!

Hi Derek, very timely, as very often when you write something... Thanks!

Right now I am at a huge junction of several roads in my life. Quite exciting!

But it's really so many different directions that maybe the best will be just to pick none of them for the moment, and go for a trip somewhere new, to clear up my head a bit ☺

Sage Advice Derek and timely since we've just pivoted as a result of an angel who believes in us and is helping us become known in the world. Evidently our work with him caused major transformation.
"we help people create the Great Second Act of their lives."
Derek, please stay in the world and teach.
Peter & Nicola

This could not have come at a better time!!! Great Words!

Derek, you're amazing. From the Ferriss podcast(s) to everything I've read on your site here (and GitHub).

Thanks for sharing your info/data/wisdom/Epiphanies


"strike the hammer while iron is hot"
Ah! I never thought of that metal-forging as the source of that metaphor. Thanks for that. — Derek

Hello Derek,

You have such a unique way of giving those new to the business advice that they would not otherwise ever have access to.

Your words ring true and the comments you provide are so spot on.

If I can bring my own experiences into this, I can tell you as I came up I NEVER SAID NO to anything that was offered to me no matter how difficult or untested I was in any of the areas that I was offered an opportunity to do something, anything in the business that I wanted so badly to be involved in.

You never learn or thrive staying on the sidelines and giving your thoughts without providing your actions to back them up>

Bravo Derek!

Much Love,

John

Loving the philosophy - it's exactly the type of philosophy I believe in. Preach it, Sivers!

You just answered my question Derek. I was mulling over whether or not to duplicate an idea I came up with that's actually working and helping a lot of people. I made so many mistakes, but those can be avoided if I make a template of the things that work. "You don’t get extreme results without extreme actions." Oddly enough, gave me courage to go for something that I thought was too big and important for the likes of me.

Derek, Thanks for this, and all your outputs. I am in my early 50's and without being fully conscious of this issue until quite recently I fully concur. I said yes to everything in my early years and it led to a myriad of amazing opportunities: a decade doing mission-medicine in Africa, a fellowship to Columbia, higher degrees from 2 different countries, and then a rapidly rising academic career in Australia. The transition to saying no can be hard - when to start saying no, how to say no, etc. And finally, sometimes, you can say yes to everything in one sphere of your life, but no to most in another sphere. Thanks again for what you do. David

Great thoughts Derek. Thanks for posting!

wow, that is just what i needed at this point in my life. I seem to be afraid to miss out on something, so the Hell Yeah or Hell No is very useful.. Good test.

Great advice and explanation! Thank you:)

For me the key takeaway from this article is casting a wide enough net while saying yes to everything, in order to pinpoint that thing that motivates you enough to double down. And then actually do it!

Thanks for a great article!

As always, you're on fire and inspiring. Love the concepts of hell yeah/no, double down, switching strategies. Respectfully challenge "You’re being tested" and prefer "What's calling you?"

With gratitude,

Miles

Great advice!

What's a (or the?) challenge is to always have the mental energy to realize where you are and make the right decision then do the effort.

To make sure of that, you should aim to eat, sleep, exercise well at all times, be in a good relationship, plus do the fancy stuff like mindfulness / meditation... :)

Oh, yeah. Adapting, and fast. Watch for opportunities and be ready to jump. Or stay put. Maybe that's the opportunity.

I have lived long enough for several of such sign posts to appear on the highway of life and had to change strategies and directions many times. Now I see a Yield sign more often than any zig zag to take. I have had to say very definite No's when it was very difficult to do and I was programmed early on to always say yes. Nevertheless, all we have is now and I just try to make the best of each moment. If I have a strategy at all it is to just be me. And if in the process I am creative and happy and can share that, then I can say I made it to my destination. But I don't think life is a destination. It is more a process. A journey. Sometimes we just have to literally do nothing in order to hear in the silence what it is we are called to do. That can entail saying yes, no, maybe, I will think about it, or even I just don't know now. xxooxxoo

Thank you, Derek. I like the message so much.

Maybe ?

Thanks for sharing this!

I was having a conversation earlier today about how exposing yourself to varied things (such as programming languages/libraries or microbiology lab techniques) is a crucial part of learning and that only much later in the process should we make judgements (once we've experienced an approach and its alternatives) about their value to us. I think this is very much like saying yes to everything and then switching to saying no.

Great advice...Thank you. I have found the one extra-rewarding thing, time to double down and focus...

Thanks for the great write up, can't wait for the directives write up to be released. Cheers!

Couldn't have put it better! That's exactly the philosophy I've been following and it has paid off well so far. Thanks Derek for the continuous inspiration.

Fantastic article! Very timely and poignant advice. Solves the problems of "what do i do next and how do i go about it".

Brilliant.

Very nice, thanks.

Coupled with 'You need to switch strategies a few times' I personally embrace a 'fail fast' approach i.e. To not be afraid of trying something and learning from it if it fails. Paying it forward: I reccomend the book Black Box Thinking by Matthew Syed.

Thanks Derek!
I've taken your advice and my life's path is already on a new trajectory. It's freaking scary but I feel alive and excited. I haven't felt this sense of "aliveness" in years. I've dreaded work for years and now, after talking with my boss about a transfer, may have a chance to grow new skills and meet new people. Time to hold on tight while the raft goes through the turbulent rapids of change!

This is exactly what I need. Thank you good sir...

a classic.

Perfectly timed! Thanks for writing this, Derek, I am going to share far and wide, then come back and read it again and again.

Very timely advice. I was beginning to wonder if I was saying yes to too many projects but I shall keep on going until the No becomes obvious.

Thank you for the morsel an awesome summary I will get the book continue to send more

Fantastic and unique advice!

Good advice for January...heartfelt prose. Thanks for sharing!

Hi Derek,
Always a pleasure. Yes I am doing this unknowingly trying to reach my ultimate goal. You once said at TAXI and i remember well! If it scares the shit out of you but, excites you? DO IT!
Pete

Good to hear this advice from someone who has been there & done that. Since I first met you, Derek, you have struck me as a "HELP OTHERS" person and I am sure this gives you the best direction and most satisfaction. You're a GIVER and I thank you for that. I have a close friend who has the killer instinct in business & a sociable guy to boot but NOT happy in his wealth and success. Isn't having happiness/satisfaction as a better goal than merely being rich and at the top of your tree? Often the journey is better than the destination as well. Thoughtful piece & deserves deep consideration Thanks

Totally agree!
Basically be present, right?
When it feels right to turn - turn. When it feels right to stick to something - stick to it.
When it feels right to say yes - do so.
When it feels right to say no - do so.
If you learn to trust your gut and see the signals from the outside world for the right actions - you'll know what to do.
Great writing and great advice!
Thank you Derek!

Thank you for the post! Love it. Let your freak flag fly. Getting to know and acting on what YOU want. Excellent advice!

Awesome stuff Derek. Very much in line with Scott Adams' "Goals Vs Systems" approach to life, where he explains once you've set a goal, the time it takes to reach it, several other (probably better) alternative could pop up.

I like how it's firstly based in the "total immersion" which you spoke about in your solo podcast on the Tim Ferriss show. Such an underrated way of learning which I don't think is understood (and therefore utilized) as much as it should be.

Thanks again for the great content ^_^

More words of wisdom, strangely enough I think I'm finally doing this right now and so this post resonates.

Spot on! Thanks for sharing valuable insights

"How you do anything is how you do everything." Wow, Derek, that's profound and oh so true. Thanks for your ongoing and growing wisdom.
No credit to me. That's an old quote from who-knows-where. — Derek

Thanks for the article. It's always hard to know when to switch directions. Comfort and fear are very big pulls in life, particularly mid career. my natural tendency is to keep my head down and stay the course. Perhaps I should pick my head up!!!

Yeah, good stuff Derek. That's part of what I'm writing about. Possible titles:
Choose Your Passion
Getting to Passion

Thank you for htis brilliantly succinct summing up why two seemingly opposing approaches are both right!

I love saying Yes to Everything, and all the opportunites it brings, and now maybe I'm ready for some focus on One Thing. As always, you're making me think.

Thanks for such a relevant and timely piece Derek. It was like reading a summary of all the thoughts that have been running around in my head recently and of the articles that I've read on purpose over the years. The theory is easy. The doing's always the challenge.

Coincidentally, this is something I think about and struggle with a lot. Thank you for your clear an eloquent description.

Your words about tiny connections turning out to be life changers Derek, ring so true. A guy I was once put in touch with through a chance meeting on a holiday, became my boss 9 years on for my dream job. Persistence paid off. And then I switched strategies. But it was one hell of a ride!

Thanks for this Derek. It's nice to have wise words encouraging me. It's been an uphill battle but you help me not give up
Thank you

Great advice! I'm just "jumping in the car" to begin the journey, but I'll keep all this in mind as I go!

Nice piece Derek. I agree with it, it takes time to find your niche areas but you need to watch you don't get caught stuck doing the same old.

It's poignant for me at the minute too with one of my business ideas I've been working on. I realize I need to change strategies as what I'm doing isn't bringing the results I want.

It's good as it pushes the boundaries but challenging too. I heard a nice quote the other day, 'Life begins at the end of your comfort zone' ... true ... so onward and upward!

If anyone has not listenned to Tim Ferris's podcast with Mr. Sivers, go do so and find some hellishly funny and interesting stories that exemplify the above!

Yes! Love it

This is not here.

Great stuff Derek - That's exactly what I've been doing all my life/career, and it's proved rewarding beyond any expectation. It's great that you succeeded in expressing it so clearly. Jazz giant Herbie Hancock used this approach all his life too, and the result is a vibrant human being that, among many achievements, produced some of the most beautiful and diverse catalogues in modern music.

Very good advice! I was in the car business for 41 years, and retired from it. it was a career full of peaks and valleys but the trajectory always moved upward Many times I had to pull back and regroup before deciding how to continue on forward and upward! contacts and relationships along the way only helped with my goals

Thank you Derek. Very timely. Keep moving forward. Also have an idea I'd like to share with you. Get your take/advice on what next step would be. Thank you, Jason

"Now, admit that you have arrived at your first destination." Excellent! I would say, the first of many in your lifetime. What an adventure this journey continues to be! Always a challenging message, Derek, thanks!

Great post, and very timely. I'm 57 and switching a 180 on my career (from being in an office for 25+ years to personal training). I need to hear things like this!!
Thanks Derek.

Great advice and a great reminder to look at life this way. The older you get the more you realize: "I would never have believed where I am today, OR HOW I GOT HERE, a year or two ago. Life is full of synchronicity and surprises, and we need to be open to them. Thanks a lot for the great viewpoint. (Makes me feel less of a loser when I hit those dead-ends!)

I always used to question being a "late bloomer"; I seem to make gains and life transitions on a path that's more drawn out and uncommon. I am so down with the "Hell Yeah" advice (!), and in some instances it's advantageous for me to say "yes" to some things too (trying to strike a balance). I still question this late bloomer path, but it certainly isn't boring!

YOU ARE THE TRUTH MY FRIEND, YOUR WORDS ARE VERY ENCOURAGING MAYBE WE TAKE TRIPS AND SMOKE CIGARS TOGETHER

Thank you Derek. Always a pleasure to read (and learn) from your posts.

Great advice, huge growth phase and it feels that I am changing direction weekly. Loving the journey

How? The timing of these brilliant words is truly uncanny. Thank you for the spiritual commerce as much as the entrepreneurial strategy, Derek.

Hello Derek thank you very much for sending me your article.The article show the reality of many of us who started our careers in the 70s and 80s that were romantic times.We did everything naturally without expecting much knowing that something was going to work.Times have changed and suddenly everything took a new direction. Yes we should try and make radical changes also to move with the times and find a new direction to continue our dream and achieve our professional fulfillment.Even though as musicians and artists can never finish our work, we must be attentive to changes in the world.Thank you very much.
Marcos Ariel

Such a timely word!

Im living this right now. I guess the most important thing I've learned as I've successfully switched strategies throughout the projects I've worked on or lead, is keeping the team updated on why strategies are evolving. Don't expect the team to live inside your head, and don't underestimate how much time and thought needs to go into communicating yourself to the team. In reality, it takes four times as long to communicate a switch in course, large or small, than actually plotting the new course. I think its that feeling of "will anyone on the team or outside the team understand why we're switching course?" "what will my parents thing?" "what will my significant other and friends think?" that stops people from making adjustments and keeps them on an ultimately undesirable course. Skip that fear, and put more time into thinking about having those conversations with the people that you need to have them with as you change. Thanks Derek, learned a great deal from you sir. Onward, Bobby Fry

ok, after reading a third time...'cause I'm REALLY digging how all of these sentences leap off the screen together :)...

"The more things you try, and the more people you meet, the better. (They’re a little like lottery tickets.) You never know what random tiny connection could become your big break."

Resonant. Truth. There is so much opinion/thought/fear that seems to divide humans in recent days, so it's more important than ever to stay open to simple, free human connection. Thanks!

I said yes to everything for a long time because a lot of things just never came to fruition. Then everything started happening at once and I'm just in the crook of the turn now. The last double down was a dead end, but I'm speeding on to the next HELL YES. Good to know you've had the same experiences

Thanks!

Seems simple, and effective. How long do you give it your all until you call it quits and go a different direction?

Derek that's is an awesome way to think of success.
How you do anything is how you do everything. Now that's powerful, it really makes you think of what you do and if you are doing a lot of it in the same strategies or ways. I will be sharing this to my friends who want to be successful.Their ages differ from 17-24 and they love to encourage and find ways of life and how to go around or like Derek said "keep going straight" and I know they will love to see this.

Derek again nice job and keep helping the world with your amazing ways of how to succeed and improve in many things of life around us.

Great advice, impeccable timing for my own personal journey.

Doug

This is great advice, and came at a good time. I personally have been contemplating this exact thing. I have been at the same job for a while and have just recently decided to capitalize on my career equity. I negotiated a work from home strategy which has freed up more of my time to start an online blog (hopefully business someday). I also am looking to move across the country, which would not have been possible if I hadn't worked so hard in the past. But, as you say, now is a good time to figure out what's next.

Keep up the good work and the inspirational posts.

Hi Derek

As a business coach for the past 24 years I have used a technique I call the "Pivot Point" that has people assess their reality (step 1) determine their vision or goal (step 2) and create a plan of action (step 3) to move from one to two. This fits well with you switch strategy.

Please check out my blog that I have been writing for 5 years (M-F) at www.thequotablecoach.com

Thank you

Barry Demp

Hi Derek I think experience and fate can assist you.

The need to switch focus over the journey is a great approach.

There is a well thought out presentation of this at the below link some folks might find useful. It is the CEO of Zuora talking about how to manage the journey of a startup to a $1B business.

http://info.zuora.com/the-climb-how-to-build-a-billion-dollar-run-rate-webinar-on-demand.html

Thanks for a helpful article. I shared it with my FB group. Also, appreciated your notes on "What Got You Here Won't Get You There", loved the detailed notes much more than the 2-3 paragraph synopsis that I was expecting.

Absolutely awe, thanks so much Derek. I've been going through some tough moments not knowing which way to turn, but now I can dearly pause and reflect where I have reached and where I need to turn to the more for a definite direction.
Thanks you.

Derek, spot on. I can't tell you how many times I've "discovered" this concept, forgotten it, experienced deep frustration, and then re-discvoered it. Excellent wisdom. thanks!

I took a fulltime job that takes me away from creating residual income from online sales. I see a possible career opportunity in this field, which would be in direct competition with the co. That im working for. Because the owners behavior is unethical, deceitful, on a daily basis.

Im into this journey about six months And I struggle with exposing them or learning what they know and more to create a competitive, etical business.

Im finding it difficult to stay motivated. :)

Thanks Derek! The idea of moving back and forth from broad and narrow focus is brilliant.

I appreciate you trying to be helpful and kind to us. However in the very famous books of Taoism there are the very true and important stories about Destiny over Effort. If we think back with honesty, we can see how correct that is.

What ever your aim in life, if it is worth while to reach that destination, never quit, success could be around the next bend.

Thank You, Derek! I totally agree.

And I have been implementing your "Hell NO"....
(I mean "Hell YEAH!" :) strategy with great results.

Love it. Thanks, Derek.

SO good.

You have been a great example to me this year in living the principles of this post out.

First, through the now pages you encourage people to communicate their focus so there's not a mismatch of expectations.

Second, in your "double-down and focus" on answering questions via e-mail for a year, you have locked into a niche where your expertise meets the needs of others in a way that makes you both deliriously happy.

And when you're ready to switch gears from that, you can. Probably to use that insight to help a greater number of people in a different format.

Best!
-James

Love it Derek. Thanks so much for doing what you do This post applies to me on my current path.

Perhaps a different way to think about the loyalty question posed in the comment above:

It is impossible to have loyalty to a strategy - by definition strategy is something deployed depending on the situation--which is always changing. For me, values like generosity, positivity, empathy, curiosity and storytelling are deployed regardless the situation.

The magic happens when we deploy the switching strategy, while maintaining an approach based on our core values.

This was demonstrated when you decided to change your bike riding strategy. You switched strategy because you were curious and then realised the strategy was at odds with some of your other core values--like fun! In this way, your core values never change and actually assist in the decision making process of the switching strategy.

Well, at least that's how it appears to me. Peace.

Very good advice. Severs is an amazing thinker.

Hi Derek,

Thanks for the thoughts, I found them intriguing as I'm at the early stage of my career. Could you comment on the attitude while saying "yes" to everything? Wouldn't the attitude be more important than simply just agreeing to everything?

Thank you so much Derek! This message came at exactly the right time. I've been a little skeptical about pursuing another passion of mine because it seems so intimidating(fabric design),but I will continue to pursue it with vigor.

Great advice. Especially about going from broad to a narrow focus and taking extreme action. People often underestimate the effort that is required for success. There are no shortcuts and it takes hard work. Avoid wasting time on the wrong path so you can maximize effort and resource utilization in the right direction.

"How you do anything is how you do everything. You’re being tested. "

This. It was just what I needed to hear, when I needed to hear it. Complacency be damned, time to get after it!

Exactly!
how you do anything is how you do everything
very helpful
thank you
please keep sharing

This blog post couldn't come at a better time. I was presented with a little switch opportunity today. I'm going to give it a go and see where the road leads me. If it's a dead end, I'll switch again. At least I tried. Thanks Derek!

Derek -
Excellent and timely post. Started my career saying yes to everything, picked a great double down/focus point (perhaps stayed too long), and am at a switch point now. Thank you!

Love your perspective. Funny how this can apply to almost anything in life.

Thanks!

Thanks, Derek. Good reminder that we need to switch strategies!

interesting point of view. Thanks ;-)

Well done, useful advice and I am very appreciative to you for expressing yourself and sharing it with the world.

Thanks Derek. The timing of this is perfect for me - making a big move this month. Arrived at the first destination, now planning the next big trip:)

Thank you Derek, great advice as usual!

I literally just bought that book this week! So amazing how this post is right where I'm at. Thank you Derek. :)

Like that strategy.

Thanks Derek! Exactly what I needed today.

Great post Derek. I will be showing this to several friends!

Hell to the yeah! I needed this. I have recently switched strategies (again), and sometimes I feel like a crazy person for doing so. This post is a nice reminder to give myself more credit for taking action on NOT "staying the course" on paths that weren't truly serving me. Thank you, Derek!

This is great Derek. Thank you so much for sharing your insight.

Any advice for those who are somewhat later in life? Already have a wife, kids, a mortgage, and don't have the free time or expendable resources to try a bunch of new things and meet a bunch of new people? I think a lot of people in a similar position feel guilt - "I should have done all this stuff in my 20s instead of messing around and now I'm just screwed."

fish heads, fish heads, Rollie -Polly fish heads
fish heads fish heads,
eat them up..... yum!!!

hmmm? funny how clearly i remember that song from when i was a little boy back in the seventies...

Our country sure could use a Dr. Demento type comedy show about now?

Happy 2016
Thank you

"How you do anything is how you do everything."

What a productive space to operate from!

Wow! The timing on this article was great! I do find myself at a crossroads but now I know what I'm going to do! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and talents.

Excellent thoughtful piece. Thanks for your insight and for synthesizing lessons you've learned.

Nice. Seems like exc advice.

Thank you so much for this timely post. Love your energy and wisdom and appreciate you sharing it! Thank you!

Great info Derek! Keep up the good work!

Derek:

Always good to hear from you and this was helpful. This is Curtis at Berklee. I felt your advice is good for many reasons but mostly because it is the same advice my mother gave me. AND... she gave me that same book also!

Definitely good advice.

Curtis

My sign looks like a big circle....lol I always ended up right back at the start.......Somebody saying it's who you know... My web page is coming along making Jingles / and sound tracks for Multi Media now not so concentrated in being a super star just happily making cool little short sound tracks in the studio... check some out at Alix Azoff.com

is this idea like "exit strategy"?
I agree with you Derek, it's truly important to know when to change the strategy before worn out.

Great compass for the journey. Thanks!

BTW, am about halfway through The Personal MBA. Really love it. A well-curated reading list is pure gold. Thank you for putting this one at the top of yours.

Thanks Derek, was a great read and can definitely relate to the middle readjustment and going broad once again period...

Great timing Derek! Have been hustling in NYC for years as a graphic designer, always on the lookout for a "graphic product" that can earn while I sleep. Graphic design is a SERVICE industry, so what's with a product?It took drastic turns and being broke to walk a path my colleagues were appalled by.I went and worked retail. And after a year, my product revealed itself, So your post is absolutely timely.
Cheers,
Howard.
On NYC subway!

Thanks for the article, its like switching gears if what you try doesn't work, and explore other ways of getting noticed, that's what I got out of your message.I am doing just that, calling people I know like my music and build a website for more exposure, and see how that works for a year or two..Keep it coming, I do read some of your articles that interest me

Derek - yes! interesting that my "tag line" on my solopreneur website is "Life is not a straight line". I'm now starting on my 5th career manifestation and am in the "say yes to everything" phase. This approach works.
Also want to say thanks for your great book notes. First stumbled on your work about a month ago. I'm a big reader, but you've suggested titles I'd not heard of. Much appreciated!! Take care and all the best.

Excellent article, Derek. Thanks for sharing it with me. The advice comes at a good time in my life (though I think it will always be relevant).

Spot on! I'll be printing this out and sticking up in my studio.

Thanks so much Derek.

Love this sentiment, but that pivot though... switching from "Yes to everything" to "Hell Yes or No". I feel like I'm doing this every couple of months.

I think I need more commitment...
Yeah the focus phase usually requires a few years at least. — Derek

Hi Derek! Always so great to hear your wisdom. ☺ I am.."On the path...!" As a side note, did you know that in Robert Frost's poem "The Road less Traveled" where he takes the high road, what it means is that he found the joy in the journey and that has made all the difference. Interesting eh? How we travel this lonesome highway....! ☺ Anyhow always great to hear from you Derek! Thank you! truly Rachel ☺
FWIW, here's more">www.poets.org/poetsorg/text/road-not-taken-poem-everyone-loves-and-everyone-gets-wrong">more on “The Road Not Taken”. Kinda interesting. — Derek

You're spot on Derek. I haven't been able to focus all that energy on Synapse for I had a brain hemoraghe 5 years ago. So now I focus most of my energies doing pro-audio. I've got the gear, that's not the issue. The issue is marketing myself and finding lead sources to get the work. I'll take any advice you wanna give me! Bryn

How I have missed your words! Perfect timing on switching strategies. No accident I fell back in love with all you stand for. Thank you, its inspiring and I appreciate what you do as with a myriad of others. Thank you

Good advice! I've recently read a great analogy in regards to a commercial flight. The destination is the goal, but the flight is on course only 5% of the time. The minor corrections throughout the flight allows the jet to land at it's exact point.

Thanks for this perspective. It's timely for me. I've just reached one of those intersections you mentioned.

This is great and encourages folks to start our ideas full throttle.

I've thought a out how the "hell yeah or no" approach fits better when you have a focus. This answered my question!

Hell Yeah! Only dead fish go with the flow.
A quote I am thinking about a lot now and this will resonate with you Derek: "No is a complete sentence."

When are the directives coming out?
This was one of them. — Derek

Another great one, Derek. I passed it on to my college senior son.

I'm also impressed you have Robert "Fish Heads" Haimer ("Artie Barnes") reading your blog. One of my faves from Dr. Demento.

I never thought of it that way before, but it's so true. As usual, you cut straight to the simple root of something many of us struggle with. And it's applicable for everything: career, marketing, entrepreneurship, socializing, creativity... Great essay. Thank you.

Always love your point of view Derek. You have a great perspective. Thanks!

Very timely! Thanks Derek.

Absolutely agree! If something isn't working, cast a net and follow where people need your trained and special skills the most. Making lateral moves so that you take advantage of your built up career capital would be safest, and provide more happiness as you are be good at what you do.

Oh yes, in my youth I took the road less traveled and it was glorious and exciting. Then the road narrowed. Waiting for Divine Intervention, I kept on the "Road to Somewhere", the journey took years. Finally time became a fierce enemy and the turns were less apparent. The clouds and the rain had taken it's toll on me and inspiration was fading. I knew it was time, time for a new course, a new chapter, a new book, a new song!

Loved this article - super important to keep in mind!

The roads we wander down seem great. But I agree. Sometimes you need to take a divergent path to somewhere new if the trail becomes less green and colorful. Or back track. I respect people that trail blaze down new paths. I need to do that in my life.

Great advice as always. There is no straight path to a destination, sometimes the detours have the best surprises and make you learn more than you ever will.

Extremely appropriate for a little life changing move Im currently going through - thanks Derek!

Doing just this. Tried selling the tech I've designed for a year. rather than focus on its uniqueness, I'm focusing on proving the underlying science behind the tech. Should the science prove out, the tech obstacle is a drop in the bucket. Science first, all else will follow.

Derek, as always, you share deep insights and wisdom about life and living. Thank you.

I just got pointed to your site by a friend. Well said and well timed, especially in combo with your Hell Yes or No post!!

Its funny how these lessons seemed so easy when the question was whether to quit our jobs and run away. Whether to focus on happiness and experience rather than money and things...

But now i find myself falling into the same pitfalls, even if for all the right reasons. Im lucky enough to get paid (a bit) for doing what i love and for helping people make change... yet it silently lays a trap that makes it difficult to say no, which leads to overcommitment and stress...which leads to a very bad path indeed.

Thanks for laying out so simply...and for the reminder! Good stuff! =)

Great advice, I love the saying don't let your mouth overburden your back!

I really enjoyed your two podcasts with Timothy Ferris. Your concept of directives is priceless, I went back to the podcast and re-listened to them with my wife and two children!!

Thank you

Derek, very well said.

Yes! "Then when you notice that one thing is extra-rewarding, it’s time to switch strategies. Double-down and focus all of your considerable capacity on this one thing."

Too often, clients, particularly very creative clients, try to work all their projects at once. This is a recipe for mediocrity in both quality and success!

I recommend serial monogamy when it comes to projects - one project at a time!

I heard you talk about "Hell yeah or no" with Tim Ferriss. I've started using that to assess what to stop doing and when to start something new. It helps - and makes me smile a little... Thanks.

Thanks Derek, this is great. From yes to everything, to evaluating where there's traction, to focusing on that, to hell yeah or no. "How you do anything is how you do everything"

Thanks Derek. Great advice, and very timely! Loving your work!

Derek

Thanks for sharing this

Reminds me of astronauts and pilots who are constantly course correcting

Life seems trivial at times yet the most important decision is the NEXT decision!

Too late for me but I'm sure it will help the young folks.

You are correct...... And you usually are.
There must be an overriding sense however of knowing where you think you might want to go......if you don't,"any road will take you there".

This is exactly where I've been focusing this past 2 months. I've been doing the "same ol' thing" for YEARS and while my life is "pretty good" (meaning I can pay bills, eat food, buy basic clothes, slowly get out of debt, and sometimes travel 2-3 hours away), it's just not what I imagined. And honestly, I keep thinking that what I want to immerse myself in, (self-knowledge) is just not a thing anyone else cares about. But I'm finally getting that maybe they would care, if I actually showed how I got here more. I need different strategies. I need to be around more people doing these different things. Switch!

So much insight in such a short article, and I echo the timeliness that others have mentioned! It's like you just KNOW :) Also, your take on loyalty and updating, it's really starting to shift the way I see things...Thank you for sharing your wisdom as always!

Thanks for the truly great insight! I concur that we should not discount any interaction or encounter; in fact, they all alter/shape our perception of the world.

Thank you so much for the inspiration!

I actually have found a new direction that is not connected with my music lately, but is starting to make some money. This was very well timed.

Interesting perspective Senor, need to remove those blinders sometimes and see the peripheral. I like. Ciao.

Indeed true in many ways... The confidence you gain in choosing the many paths is unmatched!,,

Thanks for the advice, Derek.

Really useful having things like this to reference.

Life is not a linear path, but its interesting that we are told that as we get older.

Its a real disservice because the complexity of anyone and everyone's life story is full of turns, especially the most successful of us all.

Thank you for the article. Fantastic reminder of that.

Hi Derek,

Great advice. In the Business Excellence framework that I work in, we call this Agility. When an organization is agile, it is able to break the course of action and switch its strategy quickly instead of proceeding down the wrong path.
Your article serves to validate my insight. Thanks!

I love it!!! Preach on brother

Thanks for linking me to this, Derek! Great thoughts, once again. And you're right--it definitely applies to my life right now. I also just began reading "On Writing Well," based upon your recommendation. =)

Strange you have chosen now to say this Derek, you are often right on the nail, and again, for me you are. I am getting on in years and haver tried all my life to find that lucky break, so for once, I have taken the turn.
Chance is something you make, so I have packed in working for a company and gone on my own. I have set myself a plan to work harder than ever at music, and that - God willing - is what I am am starting to do now.

Wish me luck - Luck is 99% perspiration 1% luck!
Thanks for the thought - always does me good. And thanks again for CD Baby - without which, I'd have nothing on line to sell.
with my kindest regards,

Paul

Hi Derek,
This is very true and great advice. Many thanks!

Not to repeat what has already been said but I love the "Hell yeah or no" rule in life. I have just started using that and my business partners think I have go crazy. And I am OK with their response.

You say here that "Early in your career" is a good to to take anything but I think this also can apply to when we are switching into new field.

Does anyone else have a hard time switching from diffuse mode into focused mode ?

It seems that everything in our business and personal world requires us to operate continuously in the diffuse mode. Sometimes I wonder if I will ever get back to being able to be focused for more than 15 minutes at a time.

So many 'new directions ' and changes in my journey so far and it is so very true that in the excitement of the beginning part of the ride, you cannot say 'no', or indeed DARE not say 'no' but later, when you have some success, then you learn to say 'no' in whatever way is necessary.
The only thing I never, ever say 'no' to is the music and poetry in my head - in fact it would be an impossibility to do that.

This reminds of a zenism i read not that long ago. The novice sees many choices, the master few. This is to say that when we are younger and maybe a bit more naive that we want to think that the world is our oyster and we can do anything. The more we get along the more we realize that choices become more limited if we are to be proficient in any skill set. Thanks for these wise words.

What are your thoughts when your stuck on a specific road that you want to get off of but can't. Why you might ask?

Because financially you feel your dependent on that specific road. So as I write this, I guess the more focused question is do you immediately jump off that road so you can see other forks that are possible? Or do you strategically plan the other road you want to take and then jump off the road I'm currently on.

Hope this question isn't to vague.

Thanks you for the inspiration!
Douglas
See Change careers like Tarzan — Derek

Thank you for taking the time to share your advice and experience with us.

Oh Zen One,
I can't stop chuckling. The utter truth is always the most amusing and amazing of truths. (And yes, the destination is always just past that fountain.)

Love this -- such sound advice.

This is excellent; thank you!

I worked with prisoners for over a decade some years ago. Although some were lifers, even most lifers are released at some point and the goal was always to help them gain some insight into their lives, in the hope that they wouldn't repeat past mistakes.

One exercise I used was to ask them to draw a road map of their lives. I let them choose their own layout and signage, and typically they would draw 'dead ends', fast freeways (when things were going well) 'wrong turns', steep hills, road blocks, bad smashes and - the prison - car pounds! Their explanations of the maps they'd drawn were often excruciating and painful to hear, but they all said that it through helped them to visualise alternatives for the future. There was always an option for inmates to pass on the exercise, but none did.

I really appreciate your writing. Its clear and a fast read. I have been way too much a stay the course person.

The one thing I am starting to do now is the Hell yeah! idea. It makes a lot of sense for me now.

I've said yes to too many things. Now it's time to say hell yes or no. It'll take an adjustment period but I am hopeful in changing my mindset.

Thanks for sharing, and timely for me as I swith strategies for my next 30 years on this wonderful world!

Awesome! Love how you always manage to explain things in such simple terms. Also, SO relevant to our last conversation about switching between being locally vs globally focused.

One question. You say that it's time to learn to say "hell yeah or no" only once you've already become successful. But, wouldn't it also be necessary to learn how to say "hell yeah or no" when you're doubling down on that one thing that you've found to be extra-rewarding?

Even before a person becomes successful, it's all too easy to be distracted by wanting to do EVERYTHING, even when they've found that one thing that is extra-rewarding. But if something is extra-rewarding, then you have to learn to say no to everything else (so that you can double down and focus on that one extra-rewarding thing).

Although the size and rewards of the opportunities when you're successful are obviously much bigger than those when you're not, I think the "hell yeah or no" philosophy is just as critical at both points. Curious to hear your thoughts.

Great post. It has inspired a post at :
http://ayietim.wordpress.com

Just reading this advice, stirred up my motivation to MOVE, MOVE & keep on MOVING (which is wonderful)... but it also induced a feeling of restlessness, from not taking a break... just to relax & breathe! I am sure your message assumes, that readers would be wise enough to REST appropriately on their own, but surprisingly... many of us are so driven toward becoming SUCCESSFUL, until we lose sight of personal HAPPINESS, as well as neglect nurturing essential RELATIONSHIPS, along the way!

It's very important maintain proper balance & NOT totally avoid every "REST STOP" signal, along your Journey, (they are also pregnant with new ideas, inspiration & often, much needed confirmations)!

I can't wait to read the book... thanks Derek for your extraordinary insights! Lol Will

Thank you great advice. You have provided a map to the highway of success and then some. You know of course you have been an excellent navigator and reached your own destiny of success. Thanks for sharing the road map with others.

I recommend everyone here read "The one Thing" by Gary Keller then decide whether to take a turn or continue to GROW.

Great thinking and advise.

Quit early, quit often. It's a sign of deep contentment to believe actively that if you can say no to something, you should. It takes a lot of huevos to plow forward with the real belief that there are out there things and people you can absolutely NOT quit, even if they aren't in front of your face right now.

On the other hand, making space to look up and take a wide view during times of intense focus can be key to staying innovative in our thinking. Too much focus can doom us to only seeing the path already travelled. I love stealing inspiration from unrelated worlds and applying it where it hasn't belonged. :)

Also, I am freaking out that Robert Haimer is the Fish Heads guy!?!?! I can still sing that whole badass song from top to bottom. BEST EVER.

Thanks for this post, Derek. As many others have said, the timing was excellent.

A timely article, since I have recently changed strategies with my business. Also, "how you do anything is how you do everything" is a fantastic quote. I need to find a way to say this in Japanese :) Currently trying to teach my wait staff this lesson.

I will definitely keep this in mind Derek, thank you for your words of wisdom.

The past couple months I've been trying to get comfortable with this switch in gears that is now very necessary - from saying yes to everything to doubling down. This is exactly what I needed to read. Thanks, Derek.

Great post, Derek.

It's something that is easily missed, even though it's not logical. Like in religions, I believe, people want a 1-for-all answer and usually don't accept the idea of changing courses when intercourses come.

Even though, as you mentioned, it's obvious in physical life.

Advice. Sounds. Good. Too. Bad. I didn't have the.Support

30. Years. Ago. My. Career


Is. Near. The. End

I have a feeling you're sharing your personal story.

The switch-or-not-switch is still not clear to me.

In the first part, you mentioned about "staying the course" is not good. But later on there is a circumstance when "double down" is good.

So, if (so) is being focused. How to know if this focus is right or not?

You mentioned about "extra-rewarding". I agree. But then I think anything that can make (so) focused is by definition extra-rewarding.

Thanks for this post.
It's my story, but also many others I've met. You'll know when the world is rewarding a certain path. Whether money, fame, or just tiny signs. — Derek

Thank you very much you always make me smile..such a good thing
much love

Thanks Derek! This was a great message!

Hey guys i got switchstrategy.com for sale

Hi Derek, thanks!

I loved this solid advice thank you I needed to hear this!

Life as we know it, how to succeed and achieve our goal
Simplified.
The clarity of thought and understanding very impressive. Thanks for sharing and making accessible your knowledge .
Baba

Great advice, it is important to never really feeling comfortable, as we all need to keep growing.

I love that I have been following this advice this year without even knowing it. I stumbled upon the world of tattooing (out of absolutely nowhere) and just dug a bit deeper than usual and realized that there might be something there, which I am now exploring. Even though I'm just starting, I know soon the entire industry/craft is going to change, so am already thinking how I may have to adapt down the road.

Love it love it love it.

Great ideas. Thanks.

I like the words of Anonymous at #75 saying, "I find that I lose interest in roads when I stop gaining in knowledge or thrills."

This resonates like the box of an acoustic guitar if I let it, regarding all roads in general... if I admit that my former crossroads has turned into a grassy dusty hollow leading nowhere. Comfortable indeed, but ultimately leading to a dull inbred thin blood no-thrills life where I never pick up an instrument. That's too comfortable.

I might be a white haired guy working half-time, but in my head I have not retired from life. If I notice my little boat is in the doldrums then I splash water on my face and go start pulling on the cord to fire up my outboard motor.

I love it...HELL YEAH!!!

Thanks Derek!
I’m in this cycle now , i have many chance
i always want to do everything , and sometimes think that i miss some chance, because i do not strike while it’s hot ….
So, this time i will switch strategies again :)

Reconsider whether my response was ‘hell yeah’ for what I am currently doing.

Thanks Derek! This I something I really needed to hear. I’ve read advice before that just told me to follow one strategy e.g. “focus on something” or “explore”. That advice didn’t feel completely wrong, but it also didn’t quite click in my head. I really like this framework for how to approach life, and recognizing the value of different strategies for different life phases.