Limiting Factors: What’s Holding You Back?

“There’s comfort in doubling down on proven process, regardless of their efficacy.  Few of us are criticized if we faithfully do what has worked many times before.  But feeling comfortable or dodging criticism should not be our measure of success.  There’s likely a place in paradise for people who tried hard, but what really matters is succeeding.  If that requires you to change, that’s your mission.” – General Stanley McChrystal- Team of Teams.

In 2003, General Stanley McChrystal was the commander of the Joint Special Operations Task Force in Iraq.  While his group and the allied forces had greater numbers, more advanced technology and training, they found themselves struggling to keep up with the enemy who was playing by a different set of rules.  The Al-Qaeda in Iraq were giving allied forces problems: they moved quickly and were vicious by nature.

It was a different type of war than we’ve seen before.  The strength of our military was size, strength, technology and discipline.  In this war, our greatest strengths became our biggest limiting factors (limfacs).  We were slow to adapt and change to the settings.  Our “top down” command wasn’t working – the enemy moved too quickly.  McChrystal and his troops had to adapt or risk defeat.  McChrystal, in his book Team of Teams, does a great job of describing how they moved from a hierarchical structure to a more decentralized decision making organization.  They adapted and overcame the enemy.

What are Limiting Factors (Limfacs)?
Limfacs are the things that at one time made us successful but now they are actually hurting our development.  Limfacs are hard for most of us to see; we tend to put blinders on to things that have produced good results in the past.  It takes courage, self-awareness, and confidence to break our previous patterns.  While difficult, it’s critical that we recognize and act upon our limiting factors.

What’s your limfac?  In coaching, maybe your intense focusing on details has made your teams strong.  However, this focus has made your club rigid and lacking the skills to adapt to the moment.

As a business leader you are strong and a bold decision maker.  People within the organization look to you to make the tough calls.  However, you are starting to see others are afraid to think for themselves and their creativity is being stifled.

How about a teacher?  You’ve been educating for 20+ years with tons of success.  Recently, you’ve noticed the kids are not responding to your old ways of disseminating information.  What do you do?

My Limfac
Do you know what my limfac is?  It’s playing it safe and small.  Most people that are close to me would describe me as humble and thoughtful.  That sounds great, but if I am being honest I use my humility to protect myself.  I like to be liked.  This line of thinking has served me well over the years.  I never want to abandon my natural spirit; however, I do realize it limits me as a parent, coach, leader and entrepreneur.

My “One Word” for 2019 is growth.  I will have the courage to continue to grow outside of my comfort zone in all areas of my life.  I realize that this may make some people uncomfortable.  Playing it safe has done me well; however, it is time for me to grow.  I hope you support me in my mission.

Action Step:
Do you have the courage to do the hard work and examine your limfac?  It’s extremely hard, I know.  This week, spend some time in reflection.  What is stopping you from going to the next level.  Please do not blame external factors; the circumstances in your life are often excuses.  There’s something that is holding you back.  I challenge you look within, acknowledge the limfac, and resolve to make the necessary change.

Join me in the never ending journey of self-improvement!