What would the hotshot do?

Someone out there wants your job and would make some changes if they got it...

When I joined Singapore American School, my boss got a real kick out of pointing out each of the different people who had applied for my job who we bumped into at different events.

Ten years later, I still bump into some of these people. (And maybe they still want my job 😬)

She thought it was funny but it lit a huge fire in me. It was this ever-present reminder that there were lots of people who wanted what I have and that I shouldn’t take for granted the opportunity in my possession.

One of my favorite questions that sparks this same fire in me is:

What would the hotshot do?

This question comes courtesy of Kat Cole, a successful leader who has steered billion-dollar companies like Cinnabon, Athletic Greens, and Focus Brands.

Here’s how it works:

1. Pick a role, any role.

   Executive Director of Communications. Dad. Son. Husband. Advisor. Seminary teacher. Friend.

2. Now imagine that a “hotshot” (someone who is incredibly talented, hard working, ambitious, and on the rise) steps into that role tomorrow morning.

   No transition. No grace period. They show up and take over.

   What will they see?

   This hotshot has the benefit of a fresh perspective and assumes the current state of things is the worst it will ever be. They’re ready to transform the role starting on day one.

3. What is one thing this “hotshot” would immediately improve?

Kat then asks herself the pivotal question, “why can’t that be you?”

This is where the magic happens. You have to become the “hotshot.”

Try It at Work

Let’s start with your role at work. Ask yourself:

• What’s one area where a hotshot would immediately make a change?

• What’s holding you back from making that change right now?

For me, it’s presence. I spend so much time in meetings that I miss opportunities to connect with my team. That’s something I’m working to change.

Take It Further: Your Personal Life

Now, let’s up the stakes. Imagine this hotshot stepping into your role in your personal life:

• What if a hotshot came in and took over your role as partner/spouse?

• What if a hotshot came in and took over your role as mother/father?

• What if a hotshot came in and took over your role as best friend?

• What if a hotshot came in and took over your role as daughter/son?

For me, nothing shakes me more than asking these questions in the context of my family. It creates a visceral response. My stomach sinks, my shoulders tighten. It hurts to think someone else could step in and immediately find areas where quick changes would bring about serious improvement. But it’s true. I’ll never be perfect, which means there’s always room to grow.

And that’s the power of this question.

The question is so emotionally charged that when I ask it, I feel an overwhelming motivation to BE THE HOTSHOT. I want to be the type of husband my wife needs, wants, and deserves.

So, how about you?

This week, pick one role and ask yourself: What would the hotshot do?

Then take it one step further and become the hotshot.

I’d love to hear how it feels to ask and answer this question. Drop me a note and let me know what changes you’re inspired to make.

Keep Asking,

Kyle