Some Context
We are known as a throwaway generation. We discard possessions and concepts, theories, and notions. We throw out material possessions because we have no use for them. This applies to concepts and theories. If we have no need for a concept and do not see the purpose, then we throw it out.
There is an old saying that I really like, you’ve probably heard it a few times by now. The saying goes, ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’. Some concepts that we might find to be useless, others will find a use for. I can easily think of a few people that have taken a failed idea or concept and turned it into a thriving business or lifestyle. This is because ideas can be recycled and repurposed until one day they fit. We want to be that person who experiences a thriving business or lifestyle. To be that person who turns a concept or idea around and makes it work. Uber and Netflix are great examples of taking a concept or idea and making it work. They did not reinvent the wheel they repurposed an idea.
Let’s Have Another Look
Repurposing works in all areas of life from personal to professional. There are songs that have been repurposed. There is a whole generation of millennials enjoying music that was first heard in the 1960s. The song is not in the same form as it once was. It has been repurposed and becomes successful again.
Back in 1984 the acronym S.M.A.R.T. appeared in the business world. This morphed into other acronyms, such as BHAG ‘Big Hairy Audacious Goal’. S.M.A.R.T was being repurposed.
It’s widely accepted that learning from our history can better prepare us for the future. Repurposing allows for the recycling of a previous concept. Taking something that worked in the past and remodeling it into something that fits with the requirements of the current generation. Turning old into new. A refreshed look and feel. Presenting the wisdom of the ages to the current generation.
Repurposing Works
During one of my recent Personal Strategy sessions. My client was struggling to maintain professional conduct with a colleague. The colleague was labeled arrogant and would not listen. This relationship was impacting my client’s work performance and work enjoyment.
It became clear to my client that they would need to ‘be the change’ rather than expect the change from their colleague. Expecting a change in someone else is like waiting for a kettle of water to boil without adding heat. Instead, we repurposed the relationship between my client and their colleague. Once the purpose had been remodeled and refreshed. Clear, concise, and simple strategies were revealed. When you repurpose. Strategies and action steps become obvious. They become Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Trackable.
Consider before throwing out a concept, notion, or theory, can I repurpose this? What if there is no need to reinvent the wheel.? What can I create by repurposing? This is a powerful thought process that I use with my clients. It can be applied in all areas of life, work, and relationships. Rethink before you discard using the wisdom of the past into repurposing for the future.
For direct answers to your specific personal questions, please contact Adrienne Gulliver directly.
Read more about Adrienne’s services.
Author – Adrienne Gulliver
Recent Comments