I want to talk about the power of doing little things.
I recently came across a quote from Warren Buffett. He said, “I don’t look to jump over seven-foot bars. I look around for one-foot bars that I can step over.”
That struck me as useful advice — not just for investing, but for how we approach change in organizations.
Sometimes we go too big, too quickly.
I’ve seen organizations spend enormous time and energy planning large events or initiatives that don’t go anywhere. A lot of effort, but not much impact.
Over the next few weeks, I’m going to share examples of simple, small steps that can make a difference. Some may have a modest impact. Others, even though they’re small, can have a surprisingly large effect.
Here’s one to consider.
When I was writing my book, Why Don’t You Want What I Want?, I had the chance to interview Alan Alda. I asked him how he prepares himself to really listen—to be open to being changed.
He said that before a performance, he spends time talking with the other actors. Getting used to them. Hearing them. Laughing with them. Letting them laugh with him.
He said, “I can’t act with a total stranger.”
It’s a small thing. But it can have a profound impact.
You probably have your own examples — moments where a simple action made a real difference.
I’d be interested in hearing them. Please join the conversation here on LinkedIn.
About the Author, Rick Maurer
