Do More Great Work | Michael Bungay Stanier | Talks at Google

TL;DR

Michael Fung Staner discusses the concept of bad work, good work, and great work, and how to focus on doing more great work that is meaningful and impactful.

Transcript

all right hello everyone welcome to another authors at Google talk we are thrilled to have you here and very excited to welcome Michael Fung staner Michael is the author of do more great work stop the busy work and start the work that matters he's the founding or senior partner of box of crayons and founding member I make up my own title so it does... Read More

Key Insights

• 💦 Bad work is mind-numbing and soul-sucking, while good work is productive but may lack fulfillment.
• 💦 Great work is meaningful, impactful, and brings passion and satisfaction.
• 💦 Prioritizing great work requires focus, courage, and resilience.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the difference between bad work, good work, and great work?

Bad work includes tasks that are mind-numbing and bureaucratic, while good work is productive and efficient. Great work, on the other hand, is work that is meaningful, impactful, and brings fulfillment.

Q: How can one distinguish between good work and great work?

Good work meets expectations and is efficient, but it may lack passion and fulfillment. Great work, however, brings a sense of purpose and satisfaction, and it goes beyond expectations to make a meaningful impact.

Q: How can one prioritize great work over good work?

Prioritizing great work requires focus, courage, and resilience. It involves identifying what truly matters to you and your organization, and then making choices and taking risks to pursue and prioritize that work.

Q: How can one balance the expectations of different stakeholders in order to do more great work?

It is important to define adequate standards for some work, rather than striving for excellence in everything. This allows you to allocate more energy, time, and focus to the great work that truly matters. It is also necessary to identify key stakeholders and build strong relationships with them, managing their expectations and disappointments in a way that maintains a positive relationship.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Michael introduces the concept of bad work, which includes mind-numbing, soul-sucking tasks and bureaucracy.

• Good work is described as productive and efficient work that meets expectations, but it can also be overwhelming and lack fulfillment.

• Great work is work that is meaningful, impactful, and brings passion and satisfaction. It is a key to personal and professional growth.