Check out our Commercial Investing Terminology Cheat Sheet
April 17, 2023

Doing Essential Things Effortlessly with Greg McKeown

Doing Essential Things Effortlessly with Greg McKeown

In this podcast episode, to have a complete change of pace, we are not going to discuss all about real estate investing. Instead let us focus on how we can improve ourselves, and the quality of our lives through self-development. Today we have Greg McKeown, Author of the Books: Essentialism and Effortless. Today’s topics are focused on the Big Rocks Theory, Mindset Flipping, and the Effortless Model which will teach us to do the most important things with the least amount of effort to achieve great, repeated, and perpetual results.

The Big Rocks Theory

The Big Rocks Theory emphasizes prioritization and time management, urging individuals to focus on what truly matters by tackling important tasks first, represented as "big rocks" in a container. By prioritizing essential tasks over less important ones, individuals can ensure they allocate their time and resources effectively, making a meaningful contribution towards their goals and values. It highlights the need for intentional focus, strategic decision-making, and trade-offs to achieve greater effectiveness and fulfillment in life and work.

The Big Rocks Theory

The concept of flipping the mindset by asking a new question is discussed. Instead of assuming that more effort and hard work are the keys to better results, McKeown suggests asking the question, "What if this could be effortless?" as a way to unlock greater efficiency and productivity. Using the example of prioritizing health and wellness, McKeown explores how asking deeper questions about the underlying motivations and desired outcomes can lead to more meaningful and sustainable changes in life.

The Effortless Model!

The idea is to make tasks easier by identifying what we do often and finding ways to minimize the effort required. The three concentric circles of the effortless model are introduced: effortless state, where we need to be physically rested and mentally present; effortless action, where we aim to achieve results with minimal effort; and effortless results, which refers to achieving residual results that continue to benefit us without requiring ongoing effort. The importance of shifting from linear results to residual results for long-term success and scalability is emphasized, debunking the myth of hustle culture.

Work with the Right People!

Greg discusses the importance of hiring the right people and how it can result in long-term success. He shares Warren Buffet's hiring rule of Integrity, Intelligence, and Initiative, emphasizing the need to prioritize integrity. McKeown also shares a cautionary tale of a costly mistake in hiring someone without proper integrity, resulting in financial loss. He highlights the importance of thorough hiring processes, including executive recruiters and cultural fit assessments, to find the right person who brings effortless results and can positively impact the business in the long run.

Who is Greg McKeown?

Greg McKeown has written two New York Times bestsellers, “Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less” which has been voted by Goodreads as “The #1 Leadership and Success Book to Read in a Lifetime” and “Effortless: Make It Easier to Do What Matters Most”. Together they have been published in 37 languages.

McKeown is one of the most sought-after public speakers in the world and has spoken to more than 500 companies as he has traveled to more than 40 countries around the world. Clients include Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Nike.

He’s the host of The Greg McKeown Podcast which has been ranked in the Top 5 of all Self Improvement podcasts (out of 11,000) and Top 10 in all Educational podcasts (out of 30,000) on Apple Podcasts. Guests have included Harvard professor Arthur Brooks, Matthew McConaughey, Maria Shriver, John Hope Bryant, and Ariana Huffington.