Process & Promise

Process focuses on how you’ll get something done.  

Promise focuses on what you’ll get done and when.

They both get things done. But it’s usually always better to focus on one.

Now don’t be fooled into thinking this is a zero-sum game. Process and promise are two sides of the same coin really. To fulfill a promise, you’re going to have to take steps to achieve it (process). And, by focusing on how you get things done, you’ll likely do things (promise).

But picking one to focus on can often spur us into action, help us define what success looks like, and focus our energy on measuring or tracking the right thing for you.

If you’re looking for a cheat sheet on how to know when to pick process and when to pick promise, I’m sorry to say that I’m not going to have that for you either. Like most things in life, there isn’t a universal right answer here.

Instead, here are some questions to ask yourself if you’re struggling to decide whether to focus on process or promise.

• Are you more likely to fulfill the promise by simply declaring that you’ll do it and setting a deadline? Or will you be more effective if you define and measure your process?

• Will your process meander if you don’t commit to a promise? Or do you want (or need) the freedom to explore where your process is going to take you?

• Will committing to doing the process generate more momentum for you and build trust in yourself? Or will promising to do something and then delivering it light that fire for you?

• Will telling your partner/colleague/boss/etc. how you’ll get something done foster greater trust and support? Or will sharing them what you promise to achieve be more effective?

• What will be more fun? Afterall, when we’re having fun, we’re more likely to remain engaged in what we’re doing.

And one final note. Play a little. Try things on for size. See what resonates for you. Notice your patterns. Let yourself be surprised.