How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying So Hard

The World Champion British Grand Prix driver, Graham Hill, noted about 40 years ago that driving a bit more slowly often results in faster lap times.  He observed that slowing down leads to smoothness.  Smooth is faster and faster wins. 

Graham might have noted that driving more smoothly is easier on the driver, leading to a longer career.  It is probably easier on the car, crew, tires, and pocketbook of the sponsor too.  Graham also must have found more options open by not always being on the bitter edge.  Sadly, in 1975 Graham Hill was killed in a plane crash.

The point of this story applies to business; smoother operations can lead to more success.  Operating more smoothly promotes efficiency, with information going from mind to mind and task to task with more ease, and perhaps faster.

Today, most of us command a computer which can effortlessly perform billions of operations per second.   The trick is to put all of this power to work smoothly, without spinning out.

Being in Flow

There is the popular idea that being happy and productive emanates from a state of "flow".  See the book "Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience" by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.  Perhaps flow can only be achieved by easing pressure on the gas peddle ... by not trying so hard.

One way we ease off the gas peddle, rejuvenate team spirit, and add to perspective at Automation Consultants, is the annual 9 days we spend flying our banner in the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.  You can get a taste of this experience in our Fiesta Picture Album.

Of course one can overdo ease and smoothness; the world is full of underdoers.  We keep these pictures on our walls as reminders.  Click to enlarge them. 

Paradoxically, Graham Hill drove for BRM (British Racing Motors), often cited for overdoing their elegant designs and engineering, and for inconsistency.

Use this website to see how Automation Consultants can help you be more successful.  If you need to discuss your situation with an expert, please contact us; we will listen and make suggestions if you like.  You can click on topics in the left margin or start here by reviewing the services we offer and the software we use.