100% or 98%

Ethan Crowell
Nov 5 · 2 min read

Clayton Christensen is often attributed with the 100% commitment is easier than 98% quote. On its face it seems like a ridiculous idea. How is 100% easier than any number less than that? It’s easier because when we commit 100% there is absolute clarity. The decision has been made. If you are going to stop eating sugar, read one book a week, meet someone new every week, fly a kite: it’s easier when you are 100% committed. When you have 2% left over it leaves room. Room for doubt, room to say, “just this once”. This is true in organizations just like it is in individuals. After all organizations have no special disassociation from the characteristics of the individuals that make up said organization.

How would you teach differently if you consciously thought I am committed to 100% of these students showing growth? You may not achieve that goal. There are so many elements of learning that are outside the control of the classroom teacher, but if your commitment were 100% would it look different than it does now? How do you know you are 100% committed? How do you know if you’re not?

“Many of us have convinced ourselves that we are able to break our own personal rules “just this once.” In our minds, we can justify these small choices. None of those things, when they first happen, feels like a life-changing decision. The marginal costs are almost always low. But each of those decisions can roll up into a much bigger picture, turning you into the kind of person you never wanted to be.” — Clayton Christensen

Ethan Crowell

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Be Kind, Be Grateful, Be Present

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