Why do we always focus on the 12?

I'm experimenting with something a little different here sharing more of the moments I notice in my own life and work and what they make me think about. This first one caught me doing something I see in many of the high achievers I coach. Maybe you'll recognize yourself too.

I recently completed my third Function Health test, which measures more than 160 biomarkers to provide a comprehensive picture of your current and future health.

When I logged in to see my results, the first thing on the screen was:

“Long Live Kristi!” 

Well, that's a pretty good start.

Then I learned my biological age was 14.3 years younger than my actual age; Even better.

113 biomarkers were in range.

Only 12 were out of range.

I exercise every day, eat very healthfully and have been working with a holistic doctor to make some changes based on my previous results. So, I was thrilled to see that things had continued to improve.

For approximately 30 seconds...

Because guess where my attention went next?

The 12.

Why was this one high?

What caused that one?

What am I doing wrong?

What do I need to change?

I had 113 reasons to feel proud, and somehow, I managed to focus on the 12 things that weren't perfect.

Sound familiar?

You deliver an important presentation and receive 35 glowing reviews and two suggestions for improvement.

Which two do you think about all night?

Your CEO tells you nine things you're doing exceptionally well and one thing they'd like you to work on.

Which one follows you home?

There is a reason many successful people do this. Part of what drives us is our ability to see what could be better.

That's a strength.

Until it isn't.

Because when we're constantly focused on the gap, we can lose sight of our progress. We don't celebrate what we've accomplished. And sometimes we even allow one piece

of constructive feedback to undermine our confidence in the other 95% we're doing exceptionally well.

So, I'm trying a different question:

What would happen if I gave what's working as much attention as I give what needs fixing?

I'm certainly not going to ignore my 12 biomarkers. I'm going to understand them, learn from them and determine what, if anything, I want to change.

But I'm also going to celebrate the 113.

And perhaps there's something in your own life or leadership that deserves the same treatment.

What's your 113?

P.S. There was one other important finding. All my liver markers were in range.

So, the glass of wine I thoroughly enjoy while cooking my very healthy dinner?

It's staying.

Cheers!

A question to take with you: Where are you so focused on what needs fixing that you've forgotten to acknowledge what's already working?