Are There Metrics for Meaning?

Are There Metrics for Meaning?

“The single best machine to measure trust is a human being. We haven’t figured out a metric that works better than our own sort of, like, ‘There’s something fishy about you.’”
~Simon Sinek

In my work as a coach, I hear about metrics all the time: performance measurements, 360 assessments, objectives, sales figures, quarterly earnings.

Drucker’s famous maxim, “If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it” isn’t always true; qualitative measurements differ drastically from quantitative ones.

It’s been my experience that the most important aspects to building a successful life are difficult to measure, and certainly the metrics of interpersonal relationships are both subjective and relative.

In a recent discussion with a client—an EVP of a global company—he attempted to articulate what success looked like to him. I challenged him on something he said and asked him to think about what his motivation was for turning away from an opportunity to become CEO.

A week later, he had done some significant digging and discovered that he did indeed want the opportunity to lead an organization. That being number two was a safe and known place. That it wasn’t the position but rather the purpose behind the company itself that he found off-putting.

He wanted to do meaningful work, work with a purpose greater than quarterly earnings, or profits for partners.

Money and position are not his motivators; purpose, passion and meaning are.

Show me the metrics for those.

Sometimes the best measurements are provided by our feelings, our own internal voice of truth.

And we’d be well-served to listen.



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About
Cynthia Barlow

Founder Cynthia Barlow

Facilitator, Author, Coach

Helping businesses build their people

When your people have the skills to communicate more effectively, they can connect more easily and collaborate more productively. Not only on the job, but also in life.

Communication, Connection, and Collaboration—the three “C’s”—are the cornerstones of all successful businesses. They are the result of Emotional Intelligence in action.

More details can be found in my recent best seller with co-author Jennifer Eggers:
Resilience: It’s Not About Bouncing Back

The power of resilience within organizations can transform an average company into a powerhouse. Yet, even in times of rapid disruptive change, there is no manual for building resilient organizations. This book is that manual.

“If you  want to build more resilience intentionally—personally and professionally—read this book.
~
Fran Karamousis, Chief  of Research, Gartner

 

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