Words of wisdom for this week.
“In creating, the only hard thing is to begin.” James Lowell
Today, more than at any time in history, I believe being a successful manager, executive, business owner or supervisor requires an active imagination, creative vision, problem solving and, to quote the popular phrase, thinking out of the box. But for 2010 why not consider throwing the box away and starting with a clean slate? Yes, bring many of the lessons from the past into your decisions, planning and operations but why not start with a clean slate this year with the mindset that – anything is possible?
I believe too many managers are stuck in philosophies, attitudes, prejudices, and procedures that just need to be trashed. Whether it is you’re:
- compensation plans
- attitudes about customers
- feelings about women or minorities
- hiring practices
- bonus or quota system
- management philosophy
- communication methods
- attitudes about change
- feelings about technology
- or any other behaviors, mindsets, beliefs or attitudes.
When was the last time you rewarded or recognized any of the following when they were in the best interests of your success, growth, customer satisfaction, competitive position or profitability?
- outrageous thinking
- maverick behavior
- breaking the rules
- innovative solutions
- independent thinking
- ignoring policies, procedures and routines
- bad news
- criticism of corporate decisions, actions, behavior
- change of any kind
Trust me – if you want to maintain a competitive posture and prosper or even survive during the next five years or even next year – I strongly urge you to create a corporate culture, management style and communication system that encourages some or all of the above before your competitor eats your lunch and turns out the lights in your offices for the last time.
So why not have a “Throw The Box Away” party this year and invite all of your employees to attend and bring one idea that may help you grow your business next year or even survive? Want to help them help you? Give every one of your employees a copy of my latest book, Corporate Disconnect as a holiday gift and ask them to read it over the holidays and come to work January 2nd ready to build a new box but with no sides and no top.
Make Some Memories Every Day…