Experiential insights help me make more effective use of time. In fact, insights build capacity!
Wisdom, in the form of experiential insight, enhances my professional capacity. Proverbs 3.16 paraphrase
The Precept Explained
How do I cram more output into an already overly-busy schedule?
Also, how can I make most effective use of the time I have available?
Well, common suggestions for improving productivity include advice like the following:
First, set priorities. Thus, first things first.
Second, limit my time on a given activity.
Third, delegate.
Fourth, be strategy driven and
Fifth, focus my efforts on those activities where I’m most competent.
Thus, I stay within my circle of competence.
Also, I grow my circle of competence because I accept advice.
As a result, I use my time wisely.
Circle of Competence
The observation in Proverbs 3.16 draws on the circle of competence mental model. Proverbs 1.5-6 also references circle of competence.
Specifically, it suggests that my professional capacity can be enhanced. To do so, I access the experiential insights I have already accumulated.
Insight is from Proverbs 3.13, 1.5, and other verses. It’s translated “understanding” in some versions.
Build Capacity
Next, the phrase “length of days” in Proverbs 3.2 and 3.16 uses the Hebrew word that means a physical measure. See Genesis 6.15 as an example.
So, how is “length of days” different from “long life,” that is, more days? Read Proverbs 3.2 and Proverbs 9.11 to see versions of the two phrases used together.
I realize I cannot add more hours to a day but I can dramatically improve how I use the hours I have!
I think the writer isn’t being poetic by using repetition. Instead, this combines two things. Simply, how long and how much!
I live longer – “long life”. Additionally, I have greater capacity – “length of days”.
More days + More productivity!
Therefore, insights build capacity!
Reverence brings me wisdom, insight, increased capacity, and a longer life. Proverbs 9.10-11 paraphrase
Leadership Insight
So, what’s the connection between experiential insight and greater productivity?
When a leader is intentional about building insights through daily reflection he/she builds expertise. Over time, the leader can draw from those experiential insights to form opinions that inform their sound judgment.
As a result, my collection of experiential insights grows. Then, I find myself in a position as a leader where I can more efficiently reach a decision. Why? Because I’m drawing on what has worked well in similar decision situations.
Other Decision Criteria
Certainly, past experience is not the end all as an effective decision criteria.
Hence, the need for listening to sound advice. And, finding “what else are we missing” critics to question my rationale. Also, being flexible in approaching different situations.
Apply This Today!
What’s in it for me? How can I make more effective use of time? By becoming more insightful. And by making more effective use of time.
Leaders who learn from their experiences, who draw on the competence of their trusted advisers, and who can be coached will enjoy “riches and have an impact”, according to Proverbs 3.16.
Therefore, what’s in it for me is career advancement.
Moreover, insights build capacity!
What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com