Think Out of the Box

This is the way we have always done it! Most people hate change, and it goes against human nature. I once heard a story about a young lady who always cut the ends off her roast and passed it on to her daughter and so on. At one point, the daughter asked why they have to cut off the ends, and the mother replied, “My mother always did it this way and that’s how you are supposed to do it.” That answer wasn’t good enough for the young girl so she went to her grandmother and asked why. The grandmother replied, “I had to cut off the ends because my pan was too small.” This is just an example of how we can get set in our ways, which can keep us stagnate in our development. It doesn’t mean we have to reinvent the wheel, but we can certainly improve it. Just think if Edison, Franklin, or Ford thought that way! Never be afraid to be a visionary. The world needs them! I would still be typing this on an old typewriter instead of typing it on my iPad if Jobs thought of an apple just like everyone else.

Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold Wondrous things out of thy law.

Psalm 119:18

Go Professional

Please and thank-you are still the magic words. Think about your language, even slang, and the reflection on your workplace. A few curse words or calling everyone honey and cutie may not seem like a big deal, but how does it look from the outside looking in? The bawdy jokes around the water cooler may seem funny to a few but can be offensive to others. The rude and unprofessional banter may not seem like a big deal but may seem a bit tacky to your customers. It does not mean being afraid to speak, but it is vital to any company that your words, body language, and actions are perceived well upon you and your employees, who are a mirror of your company. So think before you act.

Set a watch, O Jehovah, before my mouth; Keep the door of my lips.

Psalm 141:3

Don’t You Look Sharp!

What’s on the outside counts too! Take a moment to look in the mirror and think of what others see (and smell). First impressions can be important in our society, and our appearance can make an impact. Just about anyone can think of a person where you inwardly questioned their personal hygiene; no one wants to have that conversation with an employee, but it is sometimes necessary. Appearance also extends to your work area and even your car. Think of outward appearances and what customers and employees see when they look at you. You are the example, so rub-a-dub-dub!

And God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

Genesis 1:27