The extra step is a common phrase, used by many, to denote the need to go a little further in trying to complete something. When building a new relationship, to go the extra step by thanking someone with a handwritten note after you first meet them. Or walking an extra 15 minutes on the treadmill if you are really serious about losing weight.
The extra step that I am referring to here, is the second step or the fourth step in a sequence of events that is missing when trying to achieve something. That by missing this extra step your probability of success goes down greatly.
Making the extra phone call in trying to set up a meeting with someone. Sending a second set of samples when you can’t get a buyer to return a call. To clean up an email list before sending a blast email out. By stopping to write down what and how you will achieve something before impulsively charging on to (what you think) is the next step.
Again, we are so flawed that many times we skip steps. We are in a hurry to get somewhere without understanding how much work will be needed to succeed. Sometimes it’s our ignorance of what is needed that causes us to miss the extra step or steps that I describe.
Other times our logic is faulty. It’s hard work to reflect on our thinking by asking ourselves if we are approaching a situation the right way. The extra step that is missing will always slow you down.
Surprisingly, the slow down may just get you to the finish line quicker.