Lean Quote: Applied Knowledge is Power

On Fridays I will post a Lean related Quote. Throughout our lifetimes many people touch our lives and leave us with words of wisdom. These can both be a source of new learning and also a point to pause and reflect upon lessons we have learned. Within Lean active learning is an important aspect on this journey because without learning we can not improve.

"Decide what you want, decide what you are willing to exchange for it … establish your priorities, and go to work." — H.L. Hunt

Goals are essential for establishing direction, defining actions, and measuring progress. As you travel on the most important journey of all – your journey through time – goals will give your life direction and control and lead you to success. Many people refuse to take responsibility, perhaps because of fear or laziness. They relinquish their freedom of choice and depend on others to tell them what to think and do. They don’t develop plans, and they don’t set goals.

By setting goals, you are determining that you have chosen to take responsibility for managing your team and your life. You conscious commitment to personal development puts you among the small percentage of individuals who intentionally pursue personal growth and success. Your life will be more rewarding because you have chosen to design it according to your personal values and aspirations.

The adage “knowledge is power” is only half true. Knowledge is simply potential power. It only becomes power when it is expressed in terms of definite action. Applied knowledge is power. Your plans and goals are essential for success, but they’re of little value until you convert them into actions.