Mojo or Nojo

Mojo is that positive spirit toward what we are doing now that starts on the inside and radiates to the outside.” Marshall Goldsmith in Mojo, 2009. Goldsmith's list comparing “MOJO” and “NOJO” (no joy) looks a lot like the differences between a Braveheart and a child who has lost heart:

Take responsibility—Play the victim.
Move forward—Marching back.

Run the extra mile—Satisfied with the bare minimum.

Love doing it—Feel obligated to do it.

Appreciate opportunities—Tolerate requirements.

Make best of it—Endure it.

Inspirational—Painful to be around.

Grateful—Resentful.

Curious—Uninterested.

Caring—Indifferent.

Zest for life—Zombie-like.

Awake—Asleep.

Goldsmith says that there are four building blocks for “mojo.”

1. Identity: Who do you think you are?

2. Achievement: What have you done lately?

3. Reputation: Who do people think you are?

4. Acceptance: What can you change and what is beyond your control.

These four “building blocks” are useful for helping build your own Bravehearts:

1. Identity: Know who they are in Christ, really.  ("The God whose I am and whom I serve.")

2. Achievement: Know their gifts, develop skills, and experience success (“Don’t do anything for a child he can do for himself.")

3. Reputation: Know that someone believes in them and that proven character brings opportunity.

4. Acceptance: Know God is in control and their part in His plan.

Click here for Goldsmith's blog at HBR