Do More Great Work by Michael Bungay Stanier

Last updated: Aug 18, 2023

Summary of Do More Great Work by Michael Bungay Stanier

Do More Great Work by Michael Bungay Stanier is a book that aims to help individuals identify and engage in meaningful work that brings them fulfillment and makes a positive impact. The author believes that most people are capable of doing great work, but often get caught up in the daily grind of mundane tasks and lose sight of their true potential.

The book is divided into three sections, each focusing on a different aspect of finding and doing great work. The first section, "Finding Your Great Work," encourages readers to explore their values, strengths, and passions in order to identify the types of work that align with their true selves. Stanier provides various exercises and tools to help readers reflect on their past experiences and uncover patterns that indicate what truly excites and energizes them.

The second section, "Doing Your Great Work," delves into the practical steps needed to turn ideas into action. Stanier emphasizes the importance of taking small, manageable steps towards great work, rather than waiting for the perfect opportunity to present itself. He provides strategies for overcoming common obstacles such as fear, procrastination, and self-doubt, and offers tips on how to stay focused and motivated throughout the process.

The final section, "Sustaining Your Great Work," focuses on maintaining momentum and avoiding burnout. Stanier emphasizes the importance of self-care and setting boundaries to ensure that individuals can continue to do great work without sacrificing their well-being. He also explores the concept of collaboration and how working with others can enhance and amplify the impact of great work.

Throughout the book, Stanier shares numerous real-life examples and success stories of individuals who have found and done great work. He also includes practical exercises, worksheets, and reflection questions to help readers apply the concepts and strategies discussed in each section.

In conclusion, Do More Great Work is a comprehensive guide that empowers individuals to break free from the constraints of mediocrity and discover their true potential. By providing practical tools and insights, Stanier equips readers with the necessary resources to identify, pursue, and sustain meaningful work that brings them joy and makes a positive difference in the world.

1. The Difference Between Good Work and Great Work

In "Do More Great Work," Michael Bungay Stanier explores the concept of great work and how it differs from good work. Good work is the work we are expected to do, the tasks and responsibilities that are part of our job description. Great work, on the other hand, is the work that has a significant impact, that brings out our passion and creativity, and that makes a difference in the world.

Stanier emphasizes the importance of identifying and focusing on great work, as it is where we can truly excel and find fulfillment. He provides practical tools and exercises to help readers identify their great work and create a plan to do more of it. By understanding the difference between good work and great work, we can prioritize our efforts and make a meaningful impact in our personal and professional lives.

2. The Power of Asking Better Questions

One of the key takeaways from "Do More Great Work" is the power of asking better questions. Stanier explains that asking the right questions can lead to deeper insights, better solutions, and more meaningful conversations. He provides a framework called the "AWE Question Model" to help readers ask more powerful questions.

By asking better questions, we can challenge assumptions, uncover hidden opportunities, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others. Stanier encourages readers to practice asking open-ended questions that provoke thought and reflection. This skill can be applied in various aspects of life, from problem-solving at work to improving relationships with others. By harnessing the power of asking better questions, we can unlock new possibilities and create positive change.

3. Overcoming the Tyranny of the Urgent

In "Do More Great Work," Stanier addresses the common challenge of being overwhelmed by the tyranny of the urgent. He explains that many of us spend our time and energy on tasks that are urgent but not necessarily important, leaving little room for great work.

Stanier provides strategies to overcome this challenge, such as setting boundaries, delegating tasks, and prioritizing our time effectively. He encourages readers to identify their most important work and create a plan to protect and prioritize it. By overcoming the tyranny of the urgent, we can focus on what truly matters and make a greater impact.

4. Embracing Constraints as Opportunities

Another insightful takeaway from "Do More Great Work" is the idea of embracing constraints as opportunities. Stanier explains that constraints can actually fuel creativity and innovation, forcing us to think outside the box and find unique solutions.

He encourages readers to reframe constraints as challenges to be embraced rather than obstacles to be overcome. By embracing constraints, we can tap into our creativity and find new ways to do great work. This mindset shift can lead to breakthroughs and open up new possibilities.

5. The Importance of Experimentation and Iteration

Stanier emphasizes the importance of experimentation and iteration in the pursuit of great work. He encourages readers to take small steps, try new approaches, and learn from their experiences.

By embracing a mindset of experimentation and iteration, we can overcome the fear of failure and continuously improve. Stanier provides practical tools and exercises to help readers embrace this approach and make progress towards their great work.

6. The Power of Reflection and Self-Awareness

Reflection and self-awareness are key themes in "Do More Great Work." Stanier highlights the importance of taking time to reflect on our work, our strengths, and our values.

By cultivating self-awareness, we can better understand our motivations, passions, and areas of expertise. This self-reflection can guide us towards our great work and help us align our actions with our values. Stanier provides exercises and prompts to help readers deepen their self-awareness and make more intentional choices.

7. The Role of Accountability and Support

Stanier emphasizes the role of accountability and support in doing more great work. He explains that having someone to hold us accountable and provide support can greatly increase our chances of success.

He encourages readers to seek out accountability partners or join support groups to stay on track and overcome challenges. By sharing our goals and progress with others, we can gain valuable insights, encouragement, and accountability. Stanier provides practical tips and strategies for finding accountability and support in our personal and professional lives.

8. The Power of Small Changes

Lastly, "Do More Great Work" highlights the power of small changes. Stanier explains that significant progress can be made by taking small, consistent actions towards our great work.

He encourages readers to identify small changes they can make in their daily routines, habits, and mindset to move closer to their goals. By focusing on small changes, we can build momentum, overcome resistance, and create lasting change. Stanier provides practical tools and exercises to help readers implement small changes and make progress towards their great work.