3/31/2025-Congrats on Q1

Hitting your goal in any quarter feels great, but too bad it doesn’t last longer. Whether you hit your number – or not – you must work on your plan to keep the growth going.

Listen to Cassey, she’s right!

You’ve heard a variation of her words here on MSD: "Manage your performance, not your results!"

Your manager primarily views your Q1 production through a binary lens: did you or did you not hit your number?

You, on the other hand, get up in the morning knowing it’s not just about your numbers…it’s about doing your best and growing your skills.

Whether you went crazy on your quota in Q1 – or not – congrats on all your achievements and learning. Most of all, congrats on busting your butt and giving everything you had.

If you applied yourself in Q1 the best you could – and your numbers showed it – congrats to you and your bank account. Now’s the time to double down and set goals for how much more better you can be starting tomorrow. (Yes, "more better.")

If you admit you didn’t give your best effort in Q1, don’t shrug it off and move on merrily. Instead, figure out why your effort wasn’t 100%.

Confer with a peer or manager to help you assess what you could have done differently. Then, develop a plan to fix it.

There is nothing like the feeling of hitting your quota! Even though the moment is fleeting, you’re a hero and everyone in the org knows it.

Conversely, it is worse when you don’t hit your number because….well, because that’s how it goes. Falling short feels worse than the joy felt on the other side of the scale.

There are two big questions at this time each quarter, and both apply whether you crushed your Q1 or fell short:

1. What must you do to keep the momentum going strong?

2. What do you need to change?

While numerous variables explain sales results, focus your performance appraisal on the top categories: physical health and "mental stamina are two of the biggies. If either of those were off this past quarter, you obviously were not playing at full strength. (However, be mindful that excuses aren’t allowed in mirror staring exercises.)

What’s your plan to change and improve?*

In this crazy-fun table tennis point, you’ll see more than "best effort" from these competitors. (WOW!)

Indulge yourself for a minute and admire their mastery.

As you gear up for Q2, remember, skill plus best effort equals what these guys can do….watch!