Time out!
One of the keys to be empowered is the ability to self-correct. Admittedly, that is often easier said than done. We all know that change happens in the workplace and we are geared to adjust. Then life happens. A grandchild is due, three kids are graduating from college, a colleague is planning a wedding five hours away and it would mean the world if you could attend, a father is rushed to the hospital, a sister is going through cancer treatment, a dear friend informs you cancer has returned and best case is two years, but most likely six months. This — and more — has been my life for the past 90 days, plus the business challenges we all face such as increased competition, associate disengagement, lost customer service opportunities, increased costs, missed sales, and declining profits.
Don’t jump! SMILE! Life is good! Our blessings still far outweigh our challenges.
On Friday night, I had the opportunity to speak to the associates of the Cen-Clear Child Services organization who were honoring their volunteers for this past year. As an organization, they are going through both internal and external changes. I am confident their folks have their own personal challenges as well. My talk was directed toward them, but it really was for me and everyone who is a student of servant leadership.
Four keys to embrace change and manage stress courtesy of Dale Carnegie:
- Live in “day tight” Don’t put off living in the present in order to dwell on the past or worry about the future.
- Don’t fuss about trifles — Don’t sweat the small stuff, and remember all stuff is small.
- Create happiness for others. “The most worthwhile thing is to try to put happiness into the lives of others.” ~ Robert Baden-Powell
- Bring enthusiasm to your work. Nothing great was ever achieved without it.
As servant leaders, we must self-correct even when we do not feel like it. We understand that emotions come and go and are not to be the major influencer in our actions and decisions. When we apply those four principles, we’ll remain focused on others rather than ourselves. If we listen to our emotions and choose not to intentionally apply those principles, it will be because we are focused on ourselves.
Choose to make this week a great one. Please let me know the successes and challenges you encounter when applying the principles.