Why Focus on Process?

Process underpins everything we do every day.

If you’ve ever watched a Rube Goldberg Machine and been fascinated, you’ve enjoyed observing a finely-tuned process.

We choose not to see it most of the time, because once a process is set and working, it’s a waste of energy to observe it. Literally, the human brain is programmed to stop working on problems once a successful solution is found (Atomic Habits, p. 45-46).

But what about when a process isn’t working? Or we just don’t know how to get the outcome we want? Or maybe it’s working, but it’s taking a rather circuitous route (ahem, Rube Goldberg Machine). Sometimes we feel helpless, or at a loss.

Turning our attention to the process is powerful. My favorite definition of power, by the way, is the ability to affect outcomes. When we can influence or maybe even control outcomes, we feel empowered. Empowerment is the opposite of helplessness.

Choosing our process allows us to affect outcomes.

For me, thinking about process is an act of mindfulness, a pause, in which I can step back from feeling stuck or unsure. I can look at what I can influence and control, and with curiosity and inventiveness, I can tweak or overhaul how I’m approaching an issue.

Then I become a tinkerer, testing small adjustments to see if they run more smoothly and thinking about what I can creatively include to make a magnificent experience.

Are you ready to become a tinkerer? Or at least ready to take a good hard look at the processes running your life? I’ve spent years gathering tools and materials, and I’m offering my skills, perspective, and resources to you.

Book a complimentary exploratory call to explore the challenges you're facing and how my services could help in your job search, life transition, or small business or nonprofit.

Subscribe for blog posts, new program dates (and occasional free workshops!), and updates delivered to your inbox.