In football (soccer), goalkeepers are the only players who are not expected to venture beyond their own half. However, there is one goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, who thinks he can do more than just play between the posts. But as much as Neuer might want to be an outfield player, he knows that his main job is to be strong and clear in his position. Similarly, in business, it's crucial to focus on what you're good at, rather than trying to be a jack-of-all-trades.
The Importance of Focus: Many businesses try to do everything at once, attempting to play the role of goalkeeper, center-back, midfielder, and center-forward simultaneously. However, just as a goalkeeper who tries to be an outfield player will likely fail, businesses that spread themselves too thin will struggle to succeed.
Jumping at opportunities can be exciting, but understanding your strengths in relation to those opportunities is game-changing. Before you set out to grow your business, take the time to consider what works for you. Measure your successes and ask yourself why they worked. How can you continue to make them work? By focusing on what you do well and making it work even better, you'll be much more likely to succeed.
Core Up Your Focus: In football, a team that tries to play every position at once is unlikely to be successful. Instead, each player must focus on their specific role and perform it to the best of their ability. The same is true for businesses. Rather than spreading yourself too thin, it's essential to focus on doing one thing at 110% rather than five things at 50%.
As Manuel Neuer knows, being a goalkeeper is not about being an outfield player. It's about being strong and clear in your position. Similarly, in business, focus is key. By coreing up your focus and doing one thing exceptionally well, you'll be much more likely to succeed. So, before you try to be everything to everyone, take a step back, evaluate your strengths, and make them work for you.