I was talking with a colleague recently about my consulting work when he pointed out that a lot of it is reminding people of the fundamentals. Then he said, “fundamentals are really underrated”. Wow! Full stop. Dr. Covey got it right, “begin with the end in mind”. Perhaps we should add, “and keep reminding yourself of that end until it’s achieved”. So, why are fundamentals underrated?
Fundamentals are boring
We love the lightbulb moment and the overnight star. Most success is not like that. Most success is the result of showing up, every day, and doing the same boring work with excellence. Then the breakthrough comes. Rarely as a result of seeking a breakthrough. It often seems the fastest way to not have a breakthrough is to chase a breakthrough. So, much to our chagrin, brilliant flashes are usually just the result of a lot of “basics” work.
Fundamentals are slow
Are great athletes and performers just naturals? No. Usually they have just practiced the basics relentlessly for years when no one else would. What makes a better story: natural skill or 10,000 hours of boring practice? But which one actually produces results: an hour of mindlessly shooting baskets or not quitting until 100 makes? Breakthroughs take time.
Fundamentals are obvious
When I give an exam in my business classes, I always tell students, “If it’s obvious, it’s probably right!” I can’t tell you how many students have come up to me after getting graded exams back and said, “Man, I missed this one because it just seemed too easy.” Isn’t luck just like that? We miss opportunities because they seem too obvious or too easy, when really it’s because we put in the hard work to be prepared for the lucky break.
Fundamentals are simple
…and complexity kills. Period.
Perhaps we need a resurgence of “back to basics”. After 2020, that may be a good thing for everyone! Slow, steady, deliberate practice on the fundamentals that got you where you are. After all, remember the old rule about injuries: get the fundamentals right before you’re forced to.
Where do you need to get back to the basics? What fundamentals are you underrating?
“Most geniuses—especially those who lead others—prosper not by deconstructing intricate complexities but by exploiting unrecognized simplicities.”
— Andy Benoit
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