Every great leader incorporates a concept I like to call the “non-negotiables,” and today I want to encourage you to do the same.
Non-negotiables aren’t goals. They’re the daily actions you do, whether you feel like it or not. These are habits or routines that are so rooted in your identity that they survive bad sleep, airport delays, and high stress. For leaders, they serve as the foundation that leads to greater things.
If you can’t master the non-negotiables, don’t expect to perform at a high level when the situation demands it.
While my non-negotiables have taken me from thinking about leadership to actually doing it, the idea is not new. Retired Admiral William McRaven popularized the “make your bed” rule, not because tight corners win wars, but because a small completed task anchors the day.
What are your anchors?
Think about non-negotiables as the decisions you have already made. The decisions you will make, no matter what. A leader who shows up for the small things will arrive prepared for the big things.
In his excellent book, “The Power of One More,” Ed Mylett says that your success hinges on your commitment to basic tasks.
“You must learn to do simple things well. You must be obsessed with perfecting processes repetitively until you create big enough numbers to give you the wins you’re looking for.”
The Rules
The rules for the “non-negotiables” are simple but not always easy. Whatever you decide must be done…no matter what. Regardless of your day or the crisis at hand, you will perform the non-negotiables.
Keep them to 3-5 activities, and I would begin with 3.
You can decide on whatever you want, but if you focus on body, mind, and spirit, you will see the differences in other aspects of your life.
Maybe it’s a workout, journaling, reading scripture, or hugging your kids, but whatever it is, YOU DO IT.
The Pay Off
Your non-negotiables won’t make headlines, but that’s the point. They’re the quiet activities behind the public success. The small things you do today will lead to big things tomorrow.
You want to write that book, get closer to God, or get in shape? Adding those components to your non-negotiable list will make it happen.
What are your non-negotiables? I’ll tell you mine in the comments, and I’d be honored if you told me yours.
Dr. Travis Yates retired as a commander with a large municipal police department after 30 years of service. He is the author of “The Courageous Police Leader: A Survival Guide for Combating Cowards, Chaos & Lies.” His risk management and leadership seminars have been taught to thousands of professionals across the world. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy with a Doctorate Degree in Strategic Leadership and the CEO of the Courageous Police Leadership Alliance.
