Winning at Work

The first rule of winning at work is understanding that you are playing a game. The game is played by a certain set of rules. You may like or dislike the rules, but you have to play the game by the rules of the game if you want to win. What does the game require from you to win at work?

We can go back in time and read history. Barring a few exceptions, the general rule which holds is that winning is not 100% kosher. Those who won the ultimate prize in spite of being good or great people had to at times indulge in activities which were not 100% good or great.

Going from a general perspective in history to looking at winners at work, they share a few characteristics.

Winners are

• Ultra-competitive - they seek out competition. They are not scared of competition
• Play hard
• Want to win
• Want to be in control
• Are focused on outcomes - good outcomes vs bad outcomes. They are not particularly interested in fair or unfair
• Are fine if things get dirty

Is this the game you want to play?

• If you don't want to play. Its fine, but then don’t be confused
• In a game we have the players or the spectators. Be clear that you spectators cannot win. You have to play to win
• The biggest problem is when spectators try to act like part time players
• These spectators who act like part time players only complain about not winning but are not ready to play hard
• Spectators should not waste time commenting on the morality or immorality of the game.

If you want to play?

• Do you have what it takes to play?
• Are you ready to play hard?
• Are you ready to make sacrifices required to play hard?

I would prefer not to play the game. I am clear that I am a spectator.

For those who want to play, be ready for the ride. It is not a 100% clean ride for sure. May the best player win.