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No finish line (2)

No finish line” applies to most of our work too.

There will be tasks to tick off and projects that we complete, but most of the important stuff – helping people who need help, making something important available, working so that things get better rather than worse – doesn’t stop. Won’t stop.

This means:

  • That projects and milestones become more important, not less, because they help us find our way;
  • That while you may finish projects, the work will last longer than you do;
  • That commitment and consistency (“showing up”) become more important than speed and flair;
  • That there is time to get better at the work;
  • That you should know where you’re going (think compass, not map) and spend time thinking about the best way to get there;
  • That you will get bored, sick and tired at times along the way;
  • That renewal – personal, corporate – is imperative;
  • That long-term relationships of trust and care are worth investing in;
  • That many of the people you’re working with now won’t be working with you down the road, and that this is okay, and that the time you have together matters;
  • That there will be surprises;
  • That this kind of work is what you’re going to spend most of your time doing – so you should keep your eyes peeled for the fun bits;
  • That the wider ecosystem (the environment and inputs that enable the work) takes on increased importance;
  • That helping people to see the importance of the cause and to get started becomes more of a priority;
  • That whether or not it’s time for you to exit now or not, you will exit, and you should have a plan for how you’ll do so without leaving too much of a mess.

There are probably other things too – what would you say? – but the only way to stop writing is to stop writing.

I'd love to hear your thoughts and recommended resources...

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