“The Law of the Big Mo basically says, ‘Momentum is a leader’s best friend,’”  John Maxwell

What picture comes into your mind when you hear the word momentum?

While he was offering the sacrifices, he sent for Ahithophel, one of David’s counselors who lived in Giloh. Soon many others also joined Absalom, and the conspiracy gained momentum.  (2 Sam 15:12: NLT)

The Law of the Big Mo is one of John Maxwell’s favorite subjects.  I love to hear him teach on it. 

However, like most things, there is a balance that is required.  If you remember the two curves, the upward curve to success and the downward curve to disappointment, that we discussed in last Friday’s DG, it is interesting to note that too much momentum, i.e., too much speed, will almost always put you on the downward curve.  Huh?  How can that be? 

Ever heard the maxim, “The hurrier I go the behinder I get?”  How about this one from Peter Senge, author of The Fifth Discipline: “Virtually all natural systems, from ecosystems to animals to organizations, have intrinsically optimal rates of growth.  The optimal rate is far less than the fastest possible growth.  When growth becomes excessive–as it does in cancer–the system itself will seek to compensate by slowing down; perhaps putting the organization’s survival at risk in the process.”

Hmmmm…what is that optimal rate that Dr. Senge refers to?  Well, according to Jeff Olson, author of The Slight Edge, the book we looked at all last week, that optimal rate and key to successful goal achievement  is simply the consistent performance of the simple, easy-to-do things, i.e., simple disciplines compounded over time.  How hard is that?

Frankly, that’s an understanding of the Big Mo that I can get excited about.  As much as I admire John Maxwell and his teaching, I’ve always seen him as almost super-human…you know, “bigger than life.”  When I hear him talk about momentum, I envision a massive action kind of thing.  Gargantuan effort to “get the ball rolling,” so to speak.  Now I’m much more comfortable with the idea of a series of baby-steps repeated consistently over time than I am with massive action.  One energizes me and the other makes me tired just to think about it.

How many of you have noticed Sharon’s often requested cook book slowly emerging one recipe at a time…each a week apart.  Yes, it might take a couple of years…but so what?  It’s happening!  Hallelujah!!!

I’ve quoted so many people in this DG, but let me end by quoting this old Chinese proverb: “Be not afraid of going slowly; be afraid only of standing still.”

Prayer Power
Lord, I thank You for this new and improved (for me anyway) understanding of the Big Mo.  As one who is “wired” for discipline instead of massive action, I believe that You have revealed a more sure path to my destiny.  Lord, I trust that a number of our readers will feel the same sense of relief.

Link of the Day
The Laws of the Big Mo, Priorities, and Sacrifice

Blessings on you as you take steps to get the Big Mo moving in your favor this week.