In last week’s Wellness Wednesday, we identified how we Think, Learn, or Communicate as either being:
- Top 20: being effective in attaining results that are in our best interest
- Bottom 80: being ineffective in attaining results that are in our best interest
The primary purpose of all Top 20 Training’s books, curriculum, and training sessions is to help youth and adults become aware of whether they are operating in a Top 20 or Bottom 80 way. This awareness is terribly important because the way we Think, Learn, and Communicate will develop habits over time. Whether our habits are typically Top 20 or Bottom 80 will impact the quality of our experiences and relationships.
Here’s a personal example. I have developed a Bottom 80 habit of needing to be right. When this habit shows up in my life, I stop listening and blame others for things not going my way. Although this is highly ineffective, it is easy for me to fall into this way of thinking and behavior.
Having now realized this, I have a choice. When I am aware that this habit of needing to be right is manifesting itself, I can consciously choose to be curious. Rather than judge and blame, I can ask questions and listen. The latter has been much more effective.
It is clear that my need to be right is in my Bottom 80 Habits Tool Box and that being curious is in my Top 20 Habits Tool Box. The quality of my experiences and relationships is greatly enhanced if I keep a padlock on my Bottom 80 Habits Tool Box.
Over the next few weeks, Wellness Wednesday will focus on habits: how we can develop Top 20 habits and reduce Bottom 80 habits. To prepare for that, reflect on the following this week:
- What is a Top 20 habit you recognize in yourself? Pay attention this week to how it shows up and the impact it has on your experiences or relationships. What are the results you experience from this Top 20 habit?
- What is a Bottom 80 habit you recognize in yourself? Pay attention this week to how it shows up and the impact it has on your experiences or relationships. What are the results you experience from this Bottom 80 habit?
From Willow, Kevin, and Tom…who pay attention to the habits in their Tool Boxes.
Paul Bernabei
Top 20 Training
paul@top20training.com
651-470-3827
