Post 2 of 6 in a series explaining The Mainspring Group’s Core Values and Purpose.
In the bustling world of homebuilding, where chaos often reigns supreme, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of tasks and responsibilities. This is where our second core value at The Mainspring Group, Focus, plays a crucial role. It’s a value that has personally guided me through the labyrinth of business decisions and has been instrumental in shaping the direction of our company.
"If everything is important, then nothing is."
I remember a time when the concept of Focus truly hit home for me. Picture this: I’m sitting in my office, surrounded by stacks of paperwork, with a legal pad in hand. Scribbled on this pad was an exhaustive list of tasks I believed were crucial for me to complete in the near term. Feeling overwhelmed, I sought guidance from my boss. We went through each item, with me eagerly highlighting those he deemed critical. Ironically, the yellow color intended to draw attention to the items of most importance was instead highlighting the entirety of the page creating the stark realization underscoring the wisdom of Patrick Lencioni’s words: “If everything is important, then nothing is.”
At The Mainspring Group, we have wholeheartedly embraced the need for Focus. We understand that without a clear understanding as to where our attention needs to be, we risk spreading ourselves too thin, diluting our efforts, and ultimately, our impact. We’ve learned that strategy isn’t just about choosing what to do; it’s equally about deciding what not to do. This mindset has been crucial in our journey.
Values that go un-lived wither on the vine, and so we find that being focused is not a passive state – it’s a decision, a commitment. As a team, we have made tough calls, turning down potentially lucrative projects because they didn’t align with our core competencies or strategic objectives. This discipline has not only honed our expertise but has also fueled our growth.
“How does turning down lucrative projects fuel growth?” – you might ask…when we concentrate on what we do best, we deliver exceptional results. The kind of results that lead to more meaningful engagement with our existing clients as well as referrals to other clients seeking the same targeted excellence.
Our approach to Focus mirrors our ethos on Intentional Balance. Just as we tailor our balance strategies to each team member, our focus is also personalized and dynamic. We’re not just focused; we’re focused on being focused. This means regular check-ins, open discussions about our priorities, and a willingness to adjust our course when necessary. It’s about understanding our unique strengths as individuals and as a team and leveraging them to achieve our collective goals.
We're not just focused; we're focused on being focused
In our work with clients, this value translates into tangible results. By concentrating on the most essential aspects of their projects, we help them streamline processes, reduce waste, and amplify their impact. Our Focus ensures that every effort and resource is directed towards what truly matters – their success and ours.
Here, at The Mainspring Group, Focus (like each of our core values), is more than a buzzword. It’s a guiding principle that shapes our actions, decisions, and ultimately, our success. It’s about recognizing that the true power lies not in doing the most, but in doing what’s most impactful. As we continue this journey, we remain steadfast in our commitment to this value, knowing that it will lead us to greater heights of excellence and growth. I invite you to join us in this focused journey, to witness how a clear, unwavering direction can not only transform a business but also the lives of those it touches.