This post is part 5 of a 5 part series on my “Hedgehog Concept.” (If you’ve never heard of a Hedgehog Concept please read my entires and visit Jim Collins’ website.) I’ve finally defined my concept through the help of others and their feedback. Now having developed a plan to develop my concept it’s time to reflect and conclude the series.

In the span of three days I’ve gone from believing I’m “clever” to realizing I’m “helpful.” The difference is subtle but important. Having completed this exercise I understand what I can be the best at; being helpful. People look to me for solutions and clarification of complex situations. Individuals find me approachable and easy-going enough to solicit advice and input. Others feel that merely working with me is helpful to their own development and learning. Frankly, just hearing that makes me want to do it time and time again.

The best part about being “helpful” is the fact that I’m simultaneously bettering myself and achieving new knowledge and skills. In addition, the knowledge and skills acquired are what have – and will continue to – drive my “economic engine.” Everyone agrees, I’m a clever person But, the ways in which I apply that knowledge are what are important. I’m passionate about helping, I’m the best at helping, I get paid to help. This, in short, is my Hedgehog Concept.

How do I plan on developing this Concept in the future? Much like life, nothing in the future is clear nor certain. But one thing is for sure: I know where I want to go. I have goals in mind and I will discover how to go about achieving them. But, the exact steps required are not self-evident. With that said, knowing the destination is more than half the battle. As time presents new opportunities, I’ll be in a position to cease them in order to develop my Hedgehog Concept.

[tags]hedgehog, management, development, future, goals[/tags]

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