Count on Me

Take a moment and think of your go-to people. You would likely include dependability in their list of virtues. We have to be able to trust in our team to be there, get it done, and do it right. It must start with the leaders of the team to set the example. I hate to admit it, but there were times when I would have a backup employee ready if I had “that” employee scheduled when I had a tight timeline. An effective team does not have room for employees you can’t count on. Life happens, sometimes calling out or having to leave early is a part of life, but it should not be a way of life. Have employees you can trust and depend on, and if you can’t, then find out why and proceed from there. You’re not being fair to the other team members to have to continually pick up the slack, and allowing it in your workplace will create strife, stress, and a negative impact all around.

Here, moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

1 Corinthians 4:2

It’s That Time

Having personally struggled with habitually being late, I can attest that it can be conquered and is simply making a decision to make it happen. It is important for everyone to be held accountable and should start with the leaders to set the example. Being timely is productive, professional, and a good sign of a well-organized workplace. Naturally, things occasionally arise, but that should be the exception. We can all think of that one person who always has an excuse, always is late, and is often the butt of jokes because of it. Choose not to be that person or allow it on your team. You will see a happier and less stressed environment because of it, so double-check those clocks!

Look therefore carefully how ye walk, not as unwise, but as wise; redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

Ephesians 5:15–16

Look for the Good Stuff

How often do we think of an inspection or the big boss coming as something bad? The big, big boss is coming today, and we scurry around to ensure everything is in order before he or she comes. The one thing you realized you missed, he or she finds, and what is soon the focus? The other 99 percent is great (but is soon forgotten or not even recognized) and a snapshot of this perceived reality is created. As leaders, is there a habit of often only focusing on what’s wrong? Or not even looking at what’s right? Naturally, we have to work on correcting what needs to be improved, but we can’t neglect what is going right. Only focusing on the bad and never the good can take root and destroy your morale, your team, and essentially your company.

Let no man seek his own, but each his neighbor’s good.

1 Corinthians 10:24