The Hitman’s Guide to Execution: How to Master Project Management Like an Entrepreneur

When we think of the word “execution,” many of us immediately picture the dramatic, high-stakes world of hitmen—calm, cold, and focused on the task at hand. But what if we could draw inspiration from the mindset of these professionals and apply it to the world of business? Particularly when it comes to managing projects with laser-sharp focus and precision?

Whether you’re an entrepreneur running your own startup or an intrapreneur executing strategic projects within a corporation, mastering execution is essential. And as you’ll see, there’s more to this than simply “getting things done.” Let’s dive into what execution really means, how it’s tied to the success of both business owners and corporate leaders, and how you can learn from the mindset of a hitman to sharpen your project management skills.

Defining Execution: More Than Just Completing Tasks

The term “execution” carries a double meaning. In the most literal sense, execution refers to the completion of a task or project—whether it’s delivering a product, hitting a deadline, or solving a problem. It’s the hands-on, action-based aspect of work that entrepreneurs and employees alike must excel in.

But there’s also a more strategic meaning behind the word: the art of decision-making and acting with precision, often under pressure. In the case of a hitman, execution involves staying calm, being methodical, and performing actions with a clear focus. In the world of business, execution can mean making tough decisions, leading teams, and staying on course despite obstacles.

As an entrepreneur or intrapreneur, understanding both meanings is crucial. You need to be able to execute tasks with efficiency and also navigate the high-stakes decisions that come with running or managing complex projects. Here’s where the metaphor of a hitman becomes useful—let’s break down how the mindset of a hitman can help you refine your own approach to execution.

1.

Detachment and Emotional Regulation: Stay Calm Under Pressure

A hitman operates with a level of emotional detachment, able to focus solely on the task at hand without getting swept up by emotions. While this trait might seem cold, it’s incredibly useful in project management.

In the world of business, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by setbacks, deadlines, and the pressure to deliver. The ability to detach emotionally from these stressors and remain calm helps you make clear decisions. By practicing emotional regulation, you can stay focused on executing your projects, whether you’re facing unexpected challenges or leading a team through difficult decisions.

How to Apply This: Practice staying calm and composed when things go wrong. Shift your mindset to view problems as challenges to overcome rather than obstacles to stop you in your tracks.

2.

High Self-Control and Discipline: Stick to Your Plan

Hitmen don’t get distracted. They are disciplined, following a strict code and executing tasks with unwavering focus. Entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs alike need this level of self-control to follow through on their business strategies.

When working on a project, it’s easy to get sidetracked by “shiny object syndrome”—new ideas, trends, or distractions. Effective project management requires discipline to keep working towards long-term goals, even when you’re not seeing immediate results.

How to Apply This: Set clear goals and timelines, and stick to them. Prioritize your tasks and avoid the temptation to divert from your main objectives.

3.

Cognitive Control and Risk Assessment: Make Decisions with Clarity

Hitmen excel at assessing risks and making quick decisions under pressure. Entrepreneurs face similar challenges. You often need to make strategic decisions that balance risk and reward, and your success depends on your ability to think clearly, even when the stakes are high.

Whether you’re deciding to launch a new product, hire a key team member, or invest in new technology, effective risk management is vital to successful execution.

How to Apply This: Take time to assess risks rationally before making decisions. Use data and insights to inform your choices, and trust your ability to make sound judgments under pressure.

4.

Lack of Empathy and Moral Flexibility: Know When to Make Tough Calls

Now, before you get the wrong idea, I’m not suggesting that you become heartless like a hitman. But what we can take from this trait is the ability to make tough decisions without being emotionally swayed. Sometimes in business, especially when executing a project, you have to prioritize the bigger picture over immediate emotions or personal preferences.

While empathy is crucial in leadership and building relationships, there are moments when you’ll need to make decisions that aren’t necessarily popular but are necessary for long-term success.

How to Apply This: Make decisions that serve the greater good of your business, even if they’re uncomfortable. Consider the broader implications of your choices and embrace difficult conversations when they align with your goals.

5.

Adherence to a Code: Structure and Consistency in Execution

Hitmen follow a strict code—something that provides clarity, focus, and consistency in their work. Similarly, as an entrepreneur or intrapreneur, creating a personal or professional code of conduct (a set of values and principles) can guide your actions and decisions.

This “code” gives you structure, helping you stay true to your values and maintain consistency in your project management approach. It can also help you define what success looks like for you and your team.

How to Apply This: Define your business values and adhere to them in every decision you make. Your personal code will help you build consistency in your actions and keep you focused on what matters most.

6.

Training and Preparedness: Be Ready for Anything

Like a hitman who trains rigorously, effective entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs understand that preparation is key to successful execution. Successful project management isn’t just about reacting—it’s about proactively preparing for challenges before they arise. This requires ongoing learning, skill-building, and strategy refinement.

How to Apply This: Continuously improve your skills. Whether it’s through taking an online course, attending workshops, or reading industry-specific materials, ensure you are constantly developing and preparing yourself for the next challenge.

The NLP Connection: Using Metaphors to Install New Behaviours

So, what does all of this have to do with Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)? Everything.

In NLP, metaphors are a powerful tool to instill new behaviours and beliefs. By using the hitman metaphor, we can draw on a vivid, relatable image that helps individuals anchor these traits into their mindset. By mentally associating these qualities—calmness under pressure, discipline, decision-making with clarity, and risk assessment—with a hitman’s mindset, you create a model for success in project management.

When you encounter challenges, you can mentally shift into that “hitman” mode—focused, detached, and strategic—empowering you to take effective action. This metaphor becomes a tool for changing behaviour and guiding your actions in the workplace.

Conclusion: Becoming an Execution Expert

In conclusion, whether you’re leading a team in a corporation or running your own business, the mindset of a hitman offers valuable lessons in how to execute projects with precision, focus, and discipline. By adopting these traits and applying them to your day-to-day operations, you can improve your project management skills and ensure that you’re consistently moving toward your business goals with clarity and effectiveness.

So, the next time you face a tough project, think like a hitman: Stay calm, make calculated decisions, follow through, and execute with precision. The results just might surprise you.

And remember, this metaphor isn’t just about “getting things done”—it’s about installing new behaviours and creating a mindset that drives success. By using effective NLP techniques and metaphors like the hitman’s approach, you can build the foundation for lasting success and achieve your professional goals with confidence.