The Wonders At Your Feet

There are times when we believe we have built the perfect team. We convince ourselves that once those final few pieces fall into place all will be right in our world of work. We so desperately want things to be smooth and steady.

But that's not how work happens.

So Much To Do
For any of you that have glanced at my blog over the years you know I am a big fan of lists. When I say lists, I mean digital lists. (Post it notes and stacks of paper are so 1985.) The upside of using lists for everything in your life means you're super organized. The downside is that you can feel pretty overwhelmed at times.

Don't let the lists become your world. They are a tool...they are not the boss of you! They are a system to help you keep your priorities moving in the right direction. They are an asset, so stop thinking about them as a daily liability.

Teams Are Stronger Than You Think
When we realize some of our team members are struggling, and combine that with our never ending task list we can feel like throwing in the towel.

However, all is not lost. Nor is the road ahead as bumpy as we may think. Challenge yourself to do the following:

- identify and recognize the strong players on your team and what they've done to overcome adversity, rise up and meet challenges, and push themselves to a new level

- summarize the huge amount of work that you and your team have completed in the last six months

- push those who are lagging behind very, very hard

You Are Stronger Than You Think Too
Some days the cumulative weight of pressure at work can bring us to our knees. But today is not one of those days. 

Your focus, commitment to world-class work, and unwavering intolerance for anything less than exceptional performance  has helped you get this far, and it will power you ahead into the future.

Do not lose sight of the impact you have on the workplace, or on the lives of those around you.

How About You
Are you looking at the days ahead with a sense of loathing; or, have you decided to take a look around and appreciate the wonders that have been lurking just beneath the surface? Now is the time to keep pushing, and to keep making the difference you make every day.

I'd love to hear from you.

No Excuses.

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It's Essential

I'm at a hectic time in my work life. New initiatives are being introduced, a full year of transformational work in HR has resulted in an updated set of expectations, processes, and staff members. On top of it all are the never ending stream of challenges that are facing the healthcare industry in the United States. I'm not complaining, but I have had to learn which areas need my focused attention, and which ones can be put on hold.

I need to know what is essential.

Not Just A List
I've tried a variety of systems to keep myself organized over the years ranging from post it notes, to a franklin planner, a palm pilot, various apps and now my Outlook calendar and task list. I guess the e-versions of lists are most effective for me, but none of the lists tell me which items are essential.

I have to do that part.

The Same Page Is Important

So much of what I read about being organized is focused on the individual. My Inbox. My calendar. My projects. My goals. I fall into this trap all the time. What I'm learning is that nothing about being organized has to do with "my" stuff.

It's all about the organization and my colleagues. What my company defines as top priorities should become my priorities. It sounds obvious, but I sure don't hear anyone speak in these terms very often.

These are the essential  things I need to address.

How About You
What process do you use to ensure you're focused on what's essential in your life? Do you have your own personal master plan; or, have you integrated your organizations goals directly into how you manage your work life?

I'd love to hear from you.

No Excuses.



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