Batman and Robin. Ernie and Bert. Han Solo and Chewbacca. Powerful duos have been a success formula throughout history. Lennon and McCartney. The Wright Brothers. Sergey and Larry (Google founders). Progress often comes in pairs.
Today many of us are our own islands. We build our personal brands, focus on self-improvement, and remain staunchly loyal to our own goals. The challenge is that going at it alone can actually be a recipe for disappointing outcomes. In contrast, teaming up can be a powerful mechanism to reach higher levels of performance.
Both Rodgers and Hammerstein were individually talented musicians, but when they collaborated their creativity soared to a whole new level. While already dedicated and talented, every Olympic athlete has a coach in order to optimize his or her performance. In nearly all areas of life – from business to scientific discovery to politics – the biggest breakthroughs often come as a combo meal.
As you look to take your game to the next level, you don’t have to make a permanent commitment to a partner for all aspects of your life. Instead, think of the things you hope to improve and seek a partner in crime for each of them. Want to improve your fitness level? Studies show that having a workout partner will improve your results by up to 60% and reduce the likelihood you’ll drop out by over 300%. Want to read and learn more? Joining a study group or book club will provide the external accountability you need to get the job done and get more out of it.
You can harness the same impact of a workout buddy in your career. Big idea: select a trusted “success partner,” with whom you agree to meet regularly for six months. In every meeting, review each other’s goals and commitments and hold each other accountable for follow though. Challenge each other and provide ideas and support to achieve more. Track and measure results, and you will be blown away with the impact after your six-month trial run. From there, you can choose to stay with that person or perhaps shift to a new partner for fresh perspectives.
Bonnie and Clyde. Spaghetti and Meatballs. Simon and Garfunkel. Pair up, and achieve more.