How to create granite-like certainty

I do this 10-minute exercise before high-impact activities (e.g., a big sales pitch, a critical client meeting, or a podcast recording with an influencer):

I pull out a pad and pen and write the answers to three questions:

1. What is the outcome I want to create?

2. What does "done" look like?

3. What has to be true when I have achieved this outcome?

Without fail, this brings certainty and a clear mind. I believe this is because answering these questions helps me clarify my outcome, with details. And details matter.

What do you do to center yourself before a big meeting?

Have a great weekend!

CQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this 10-minute exercise actually for?

Preparing mentally before high-impact activities like a big sales pitch, a critical client meeting, or an important recording. It's meant to bring clarity and certainty right before something that matters.

What are the three questions asked during this exercise?

"What is the outcome I want to create?" "What does 'done' look like?" and "What has to be true when I have achieved this outcome?" Writing out answers to all three, by hand, is part of the process.

Why does writing the answers down matter instead of just thinking through them?

Because putting pen to paper forces more specificity than mental reflection alone. Details matter, and writing tends to surface clearer, more concrete answers than just thinking things through in your head.

Why does this exercise bring certainty before a big meeting?

Because clarifying the outcome in detail beforehand removes some of the uncertainty that naturally comes with high-stakes situations. Knowing exactly what "done" looks like creates a clearer sense of direction going in.

How long does this exercise actually take?

About 10 minutes, done right before the high-impact activity itself, making it a quick, practical way to center focus without requiring a long preparation process.