This week, I posted a video on our Instagram (@coachkeren) talking about “beast mode”… from my pool.
I think the term is grossly misunderstood, so today, I would like to sort of defend it, by arguing that if it doesn’t sit well with you, it may simply be because of the meaning you’re assigning to the term. In case that resonates, here’s some food for thought:
Beast mode, or “warrior mode,” as I have also heard this term phrased in business environments – is just a focus mode. It can evoke images of extreme effort and force, for sure. If so, it may also be thought of as the sort of thing egomaniacal people would say about themselves, the kind of people who need to justify how poorly they treat others by chalking it up to their work mode or ethos. But it really is no more than a momentary “mode,” – one that you can switch on, or off.
Hence, the video:
To differentiate between the kind of “beast mode” that is all-consuming, sacrificial, constant and ultimately, self-defeating (because it would be extremely exhausting), in addition to the video, I wanted to share with you my three rules for switching on “the mode:”
Rule 1: Only Go into “the Mode” When It Benefits You.
“If it is to your advantage and you feel good (meaning: you are genuinely excited to make a move), make a forward move; if not, stay where you are. Moving when we are not quite feeling it is the fastest path to misaligned action, which leads to overwhelm and lackluster results.
This is about discipline. Beast mode with no off switch or careful consideration is brutal. Beast mode with a clear off switch and plenty of consideration is productive, consistent, and even fun.
Rule 2: Fuel “the Mode” with real Passion.
We all have periods of time where we’re close to our top speed, thinking sharply, moving quickly, completely focused on the task at hand. That’s what I think about when I think of “beast mode.” And this mode, to my mind, depends not on effort at all. It depends on the fuel: my big “why.” Having a big reason for the effort, a purpose driven or passion-fueled incentive – helps you do anything better, faster and without complaint. For example, writing is really hard. Yet, I have written 6 coaching programs, write over a dozen keynotes, workshops and seminars each year, and write every one of these emails you are reading. The way I get into the mode that helps me create with enthusiasm is passion. An undying passion for this work and for its teaching.
No passion, no mode. Period.
Rule 3: Commit to Your Objective WITH NO SHAME.
Ultimately, I think the biggest issue around “beast mode” nowadays is we are all so overwhelmed, that we have become sort of allergic to endorsing something that sounds so “hustle-y” as “beast mode.”
Alas, I have yet to meet a person who has had a big dream who did not accomplish it without taking decisive, concentrated action towards. There is no need to dial back your dreams or to feel ashamed of your intensity. Just don’t let it overtake you.
Imagine if Oprah, or Mother Theresa, or RBG, or Julia Child had thought of dialing back their intensity because someone said it was “inappropriate.” (all have been known for relentless work bursts).
If you know where “beast mode” begins and ends, and this defined period is fueled by passion that has you working with joy and “in the zone” rather than white knuckling it and working yourself to the bone, you may find these temporary bursts very useful.
To sum this up, I offer two more points for your consideration:
- Accept that people who judge ambition and focus may be those whose views shape yours vis a vis “beast mode” – and employ it at your own will, anyway, as YOU see fit
- Block off periods of time when you are 100% focused on work and do the exact same for pool time and down time, and strive to strike a balance as you do, instead of making this a binary choice
Personally, I believe that if you are a leader or founder, the stakes are too high to side-step the occasional dance with “beast mode.” Do it YOUR way, and together, let’s rewrite what this means and make it work for US. That’s how we do things here in With Enthusiasm. We help you build your dreams your way – the sustainable, joyful and productive way. And we are ready whenever you are at https://coachkeren.com.
In the meantime, I’m curious – how do you feel about the term “beast mode?” Any insights or experience to share, good or bad?
If this is a topic of interest, a book I have loved for years that sort of reframed my whole idea of how to work is Atomic Habits, by James Clear. Great weekend read, should you be searching for one.
Looking forward to hearing form you over the long weekend. I’ll be back with more musing next week.