Rationale

Some people like things to be effective as in an effective meeting, effective engineering, an effective computer program, an effective sales process, and so forth. Thus, it makes sense to define effective.

Definition

Effective means the best results with the fewest drawbacks and the most rewards in a holistic sense.

Effective also means that things are even better next week than they were this week. That is, the definition of effective is based on the idea of continually getting better results, while increasing the rewards and decreasing the drawbacks.

Effective aligns with the “growth paradigm”: (a) There is a best way to do something, and (b) This best way can and should be improved.

Examples

1. An “effective meeting” is one that produces great outcomes for the participants while minimizing drawbacks {time spent, conflicts, hassles, busywork, and so on} and maximizing rewards {social bonding, learning, organization, team spirit, and so on}.

2. An “effective engineer” is one who consistently solves each problems they face with minimum drawbacks {stress, time, costs, hassles, and so on} maximum rewards {enjoyment, learning, discovery, and so on.}

3. An “effective decision making process” is a method that consistently maximizes the probability making the best decision while minimizing the drawbacks {stress, time spent, cost, calendar time, and so on} and maximizing the rewards {enjoyment, learning, satisfaction, and so forth.}

Discussion of the Definition

The definition emphasizes achieving significant positive outcomes while minimizing negative consequences, and maximizing benefits. This interpretation aligns well with the general understanding of “effective” in various contexts, whether in management, personal productivity, healthcare, or technology. Let’s break down the components:

1. Best results: Effectiveness is about being your best, doing your best, and achieving your best given your resources, skill-sets, context, and similar. It is about caring about what you do and what you produce.

2. Fewest drawbacks: This part of the definition acknowledges that while striving for positive outcomes, it’s important to minimize negative side effects or costs. This is a key consideration in decision-making processes, where the aim is to choose options that offer the most benefits with the least harm or expense.

3. Most rewards: This aspect emphasizes maximizing benefits, which could include direct gains from an action or decision, as well as long-term positive impacts. It suggests an approach that seeks to optimize outcomes in a way that goes beyond mere success, aiming for the highest possible return on investment, whether in terms of resources, time, or effort.

4. In a holistic sense: This part of the definition implies a comprehensive view that considers all relevant factors, including potential indirect effects and long-term consequences. It suggests that effectiveness is not just about immediate or obvious outcomes but involves a broader evaluation of impact across different domains or aspects of a situation.

5. Growth: By definition, effective means continually getting better results, continually reducing drawbacks, and continually increasing rewards. This is aligned with the “growth paradigm”: There is a best way to do something. This best way can and should be improved.

How to be Effective

Design: Figure out the actions that will cause the best results with the fewest drawback and the most rewards in a holistic sense. Write this method down. Create a way for this method to happen.

Application: Apply this method in the real world; that is in your everyday life.

Reflective Thinking (RT): Look back at your experiences. Identify and write down.

1. Strengths: Three actions that most helped you be effective that you will repeat in the future.

2. Improvements: One action that will help you become better in the future that you can take and will take.

3. Insights: Zero to three statements that describe things that you’ve learned.

Growth: Repeat the design, application, and RT cycle such that your effectiveness increases with time.