Sounds like the start of a bad joke… but it’s actually a powerful framework I just learned from my colleague Sharon Weinstein’s newly released TEDx talk.
And if there are two things I love, it’s a good story and a practical tool.
Originally developed by Jeanne Liedtka and Tim Ogilvie as a business strategy framework, I immediately saw the personal application. Solo or with a group. Professional or personal. The possibilities are endless.
The four questions focus on:
• The present
• The future
• The choice
• The experiment
Simple. Clear. Actionable. A perfect addition to your personal growth tool belt.
Let’s try it.
You’ve got a problem. A challenge. An old story that isn’t serving you anymore (we all have them).
And IF - a big IF - you’re ready to move forward (because sometimes we do just want to wallow)… here’s how it could look with a sample (and common issue):
What IS?
The current reality: I spend too much time in front of screens. Some of it is necessary. Some of it absolutely isn’t.
What IF?
What if I significantly reduced my non-essential screen time? What ideas could help me cut back? Brainstorm. Ask a friend. Even ask AI - I did...
• No screens for the first 30 minutes of the day
• Charge your phone outside the bedroom
• Replace one scrolling session with a walk
• Turn off non-essential notifications
• Create a “parking spot” list for things you think you need to look up
• Set a daily app time limit
• Choose one screen-free evening per week
• Keep a book where your phone usually sits
What WOWS?
Which ideas actually excite me? Which feels doable right now? Which have energy behind them?
What WORKS?
Test the top ideas. Reassess weekly. Adjust as needed.
No drama. No perfection. Just thoughtful experimentation.
Four questions. Forward movement. I think it's worth a shot!
What might you apply this to this week?
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Tell a Friend!
Any friend of yours is a friend of mine! It's not a secret - the Your Life, Unlimited community is open to all who would like some ideas to be happier, healthier, and have better relationships. Forward any e-newsletter and/or invite a friend to join us here!
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On the Nightstand
Engage First - Capture attention, Build Trust & Drive Real Results by Anders Boulanger
Oh, I used a lot of Post-it notes in this book. No matter your profession, engagement matters. Did you know...emojis stimulate many of the same brain regions activated when we see real human facial expressions.
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In Case You Missed It - How to Die Slowly
Stephanie Staples
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