I'm not sure if you've noticed or not, but there is a heck of a lot of negativity in the world today. Political leaders don't talk to each other anymore, they simply retreat to the safety of their extreme left, or extreme right news networks and gripe about each other.
Often the world of work is no different. I hear the cries to be different, to embrace innovation, and to be more progressive. Then all of the close-minded biases raise their ugly heads and the organization (and it's people) suffer.
Work Blessings
As I reflect on the polarized world we live in, it strikes me that I have an awful lot to be thankful for in spite of all the noise. It's too easy to fall into the trap that everything around us is "bad."
That's simply not true.
While I may be repulsed at the behavior of our political leaders, I certainly have other leaders in my life who are nothing short of world-class. I work with a team of people who are committed to doing their best work every day...and it shows...as the results of their work has allowed my company to grow at a dramatic rate.
Personal Blessings
I am blessed with three incredible children, an amazing family, and close relationships that I wouldn't trade for anything.
I am a bit of a fitness junkie, and have discovered a passion for healthy eating and daily workouts that not only help me keep pace with my busy life, but help me feel great too.
The church I joined is an open, welcoming community of faith the treats every person with respect, no matter what their background or experiences may be.
Lastly, I live in a part of the world that can only be described as paradise.
How About You
Today I'm going to let all the folks caught up in their miserable, negative existence stay right where they are. There's no room for them. I'm too busy focusing on the incredible blessings all around me.
What blessings have you overlooked?
I'd love to hear from you.
No Excuses.
I need a quick show of hands....how many of you have ever been frustrated at work? Okay, everyone. Good.
Another question...how many of you have done something constructive about it? Not so many hands still raised this time? How come?
Blessing and a Curse
One of the blessings of working in a Human Resources leadership role, regardless of the level in your organization, is you never have two days in a row that are the same. The human drama (and melodrama) keep coming at us in many different forms...the challenges of keeping our businesses viable...and the never ending legal and regulatory landscape make for fascinating work.
One of the curses of working in a Human Resources leadership role, regardless of the level in your organization, is you never have two days in a row that are the same. That same list I just reviewed can also drive us all a bit crazy.
You Hold the Key
So what does the dedicated, but tired and overworked human resources pro do when they are frustrated and ready to bang their head against the wall? First, don't hit the wall with your head. Second, just get started => do something. None of us can work through all of our difficulties at one time, but if we take a step forward to react to them, we will slowly begin to take more control. That sense of control (I don't mean control-freak here) is comforting because it means we are managing our work on our terms.
How About You
You also have a secret weapon in your battle with frustration...your network. Leverage your contacts and reach out. They are going through the same challenges you are; and once you connect with them you will both benefit from the discussion. I know it works...I've wanted to bang my head too.
I'd love to hear from you.
No Excuses.
pic courtesy of trinityumc
The last few weeks have been a whirlwind for me.
Professionally I've met some of the most accomplished leaders in the Human Resources industry. People I've admired from afar and traded quick messages with in cyberspace. People who make a difference. I'm trying to make a difference too. But the bar they have set is very difficult to reach. So I'm thinking it's going to be a while before I start to see their tail lights ahead in the distance.
Personally I'm helping to launch a AAA Youth Hockey organization that is going to compete nationally next season against some of the best and most well-respected teams in the country. It's new for me...and it's a huge undertaking. I thought cut throat behaviors were in corporate America...try starting a high-level hockey club.
So today, as I think about all that is swirling around me...all that I've embraced...all of the chaos that I truly love...I'm taking a moment.
A moment to count my blessings. Because when I add it all up, I'm the luckiest guy on the planet. And I need to remember that every single day.
What are you thankful for?
I'd love to hear from you.
No Excuses.
pic courtesy of Fitness Guru Sam
I am blessed with three incredible children, an amazing family, and close relationships that I wouldn't trade for anything.