“Every single person working here will come to work each day, enthusiastic about being here.”
Full Steam Ahead! by Ken Blanchard and Jesse Lyn Stoner, page 108
Isn’t that a great idea? To actually enjoy going to work.
I am reminded of a philosophy that reminded us that we do not have to go to work. We get to go to work. That, my friends, is a refreshing slant on your 40-50 hour workweek. I am also reminded of the fact that as entrepreneurs you get to work half a day. Which 12 hours you work is entirely up to you.
I think one of the saddest commentaries I have ever heard is when people can recite to the day and hour their retirement date. Talk about wishing your life away!
Regardless of whether you are a team member or a solo entrepreneur, today’s message should be of particular interest to you.
It was a popular Simon and Garfunkel hit titled Love The One You’re With that caught my attention. I think these five words extend far beyond any romantic inference. I put a different spin on this recommendation by saying “if you can’t be where you want to be, be where you are.”
This to me is both simple and logical advice that can dramatically change your feelings and how you travel through life.
In no way shape or form do I want to be considered Pollyanna-ish. I realize that there are grave obstacles needing to be overcome by virtually every man, woman, and child. Not for a minute am I discounting your personal challenges.
What I am inferring is that as a leader of others, or as a leader of yourself, you must find ways to challenge, reward, and support each and every employee.
You need to find the true meaning of your contributions and relish in the fat that you are bringing value to others.
Now I don’t want you to misinterpret what I’m about to say. But it is a known fact that a “fish stinks from its head down.” This means an organization copies the attitude any enthusiasm of the one in charge. Regardless of your organizational structure, that means you. Not only will your employees take the lead from your actions, but your customers will also be drawn to your disposition.
I’m sure I have referenced Michael Jackson before, but I will once again call your attention to his song “Man In The Mirror.” The lyrics which I often quote suggest: “if you want to make the world a better place, take a look in the mirror and make a change.”
Coming to any workplace counting the hours until 5 o’clock or the number of days until Friday afternoon clearly suggests that you are in the wrong business. Believe it or not, you do have options today. Make it your business to bring your personality to your work and do what you can to introduce fun, joy, and personal fulfillment to your working environment.
Mike presents a business-building webinar on the third Thursday of every month sponsored by AmaWaterways. To receive monthly invitations send Mike an email with the words “business training” in the Subject Box. You will also receive a link to the recorded version.
For information on Mike’s Fourth Annual Training Cruise, email Mike at mike@mikemarchev.com with the word “cruise” in the subject box.
