Choosing the Right Battle: The Path to Productivity and Satisfaction

"Tommy, how's that compliance task?" I asked a team lead about a task that had been ongoing for two weeks.

"Still pushing back on the compliance team. Their request doesn't make sense," he replied, obviously frustrated.

"Sometimes we need to tackle tasks we don't like or agree with. That's life. How long do you think the task would take us?" I questioned.

"Two or three days...," Tommy answered.

"So, we've been fighting for two weeks over a task that could be completed in three days?!" I exclaimed.

"It's a matter of principle!" Tommy protested.

"Right. But in life and work, there are many things we don't like and we don't agree with. We need to decide what we can change and what we can't. Everyone faces battles. Not all are equal; not all deserve our finite resources. The choice of battle shapes our success and happiness or leads to frustration and stagnation." I explained.

"How do I choose the right battle then?" Tommy queried.

"A worthy battle aligns with your values and goals, has a realistic chance of victory, and promises meaningful impact. It's one that you can handle and is worth your resources and strengths. Assess the battle's feasibility, but don't avoid challenges. Just remember that an unwinnable battle can drain you, leaving you less prepared for other, more winnable battles.

A battle's worthiness isn't measured just by the possibility of victory, but also the significance of that victory - be it personal transformation, workplace improvement, or substantial societal contribution. Sometimes we purposely pick a battle that is hard, with high risk and high return.

Consider the concept of 'One-Way' vs 'Two-Way' door decisions. 'One-Way' decisions are difficult to reverse; thus, they require careful consideration and potential pushback - maybe a battle worth fighting. 'Two-Way' decisions can be easily reversed, so it's often better to act quickly and decisively.

Would you fight with your wife on wether to eat spaghetti or bugger for dinner?"

"Definitely not, she is always right!" Tommy laughed.

"Now, consider this. You can finish the compliance task in three days and move on, or you can keep fighting a battle over its relevance. Is this truly the battle you want to fight?" I followed.

"No, it's not. I'll have it done by Friday," Tommy smiled.

"A good warrior is not noted for his bravery. Therefore, a good warrior's battle has no extraordinary victories, no reputation for wisdom, and no credit for courage." - The Art of War, Sun Tzu

"善战者无赫赫之功, 故善者之战，无奇胜，无智名，无勇功" – 孙子