Some of the most famous 8 Percenters are known as some of the most unreasonable people in business. Think Steve Jobs. Commonly referred to as an asshole to his ex-employees. Or Elon Musk, known to ‘tell journos exactly what he thinks of them’
Everyone has a crisis at some point in their life. But, when you’re part of the 8 Percent things can get out of hand.
You see, I’m writing this as a spouse of one of these so called 8 Percenters. And, he’s in the middle of a full-blown crisis.
What’s wrong? Well, to put it simply, nothing is wrong and everything is wrong at exactly the same time.
You see, to be classified as ‘The 8 Percent’ is literally to be a Creator. You want to be different, to “Think Different”, you are the “Crazy Ones”. So, sometimes, things just don’t make sense.
He’s tired and deeply motivated.
He desperately wants a break from the work but can’t stop till it’s done. He wants everything to be exactly the same, but he wont stop until he’s broken down the boundaries and really changed the system.
He’s currently on a tropical island in Thailand with me, but didn’t leave the room for 30 hours straight, saying ‘I’m too busy’.
So, I’m writing this to help you cope. Cause it sucks. But, it’s the only way it’s gonna be.
Here’s my tips for coping:
- It’s not personal
By definition, it’s not about you. Sometimes it’s hard and it feels like it is (trust me, I get it feels differently, but really, it’s not you). The sooner you come to terms with this, the easier it is to get to tip 2…
- Live your life anyways
Don’t get caught up all the crap that’s going on in their head. Your goals, plans and obsessions may be different to your current 8 Percenter (whether it’s your mentor, your boss, your partner or your friend). You don’t need to follow their lead with everything. Let it go and do what you want. Cause, they’re never gonna stop and getting in the way will make you collateral damage.
- Be supportive (within reason)
He doesn’t want to leave the room for 30 hours? Well, guess who got all the meals and made sure he wasn’t drinking the local tapwater? And, who also threatened anarchy unless she was taken to the beach at precisely 3pm yesterday? Be supportive of their goals, but only within reason. Don’t sacrifice yourself to make them happy.
4. Have a sense of humour and a bit of compassion
I managed to finally make my man laugh yesterday by pointing out his ridiculous behaviour and things are, lets say, a little more civilised today.
And, tomorrow is a new day, full of new opportunities.