Interested. Committed. Obsessed.
I heard someone the other day talk about the difference between these ideas . . . about the step-change in focus, persistence, and potential outcomes. Without saying more, I’m sure you can parse the differences.
Perhaps you’ll do what I did: I made a mental list.
What are the things that interest me?
To what am I committed?
Is there anything about which I am obsessed?
Michael Jordan’s trainer, Tim Grover, has a similar taxonomy.
- Cooler – A Cooler is a person who plays it safe and prefers to follow instructions. They function best in controlled situations but may struggle when the pressure goes up.
- Closer—A Closer performs well under pressure and reliably delivers results in high-stakes situations. They are confident and reliable and can close deals or win games when it matters most.
- Cleaner –Cleaners consistently push themselves beyond their limits and set new standards of excellence. They are obsessed with winning and excellence and will take responsibility for success or failure. Cleaners are relentless. They thrive in chaotic, high-pressure environments.
I thought about that list as well. Where would I put myself? Where would you?
We marvel at Closers. Assuming they’re not maladapted, we salute Obsessives for their focus and achievement.
But, and this isn’t a small “but,” living with that level of commitment and focus is all-consuming. It doesn’t leave room for anything else.
Perhaps it’s my advancing age speaking . . . I think there’s a wonderful life to be had with the dial set in the middle.