It is summer. There is no question about it. We have the heat, festivals, golf outings, and summer storms to prove it. It is easy this time of year to go from meeting to event, seemingly ad infinitum.
Our focus in the summer can become very short term: How do I get into air conditioning the fastest? How can I arrange my schedule so I can get to the pool? How do I plan the graduation party AND still make it to Music on Chicago?
This reminds me of a book I am reading right now by Simon Sinek called The Infinite Game. In the book, Sinek discusses how there are two types of games you can play. Finite games are like board games and sports competitions; games where there are defined rules and a clear beginning, middle, and end. In finite games, there are clear winners and losers.
On the other hand, there are infinite games in which there is no clear end point. Business is an infinite game. No one can “win” business. Even if they could, just because your competitor “wins” doesn’t mean you lose, as is the case in finite games.
One of the points Sinek makes in the book is that too many businesses operate as if they are in a finite game. Their focus is trying to cross the finish line before their competition, but there is no finish line. Businesses that recognize that they are playing an infinite game prioritize differently, focus on sustainability and resilience versus short-term profits or market gains. A business in a finite game focuses only on pleasing owners and shareholders. A business in an infinite game understands the importance of also pleasing customers and employees!
Work for the long-term success of your business. Focus beyond the next quarter and work on those things that lead to sustainability and long-term success!
Bill Clow is the Business Engagement Director for the Greater Freeport Partnership. He can be reached at bclow@greaterfreeport.com or 815-233-1353.
