It’s a vivid mental picture for me. When I worked at the university, my colleague (and valued friend) who ran the beef unit had the following question written on his whiteboard: “What are you doing today to make things better?”
I don’t remember anything else that was ever on that whiteboard. But I still see his handwriting in the upper right-hand corner boldly asking the question with a bright, yellow marker.
It was intended as a daily reminder and challenge for himself. However, everyone else who ever came into his office benefitted from the enduring presence of that question on his whiteboard.
That’s because it’s pertinent for all of us—no matter where we are or what we do. It forces us to confront our own internal reality—namely, our attitude. Are we grumbling or committing ourselves to improvement?
I’m reminded of William Clement Stone’s list of “plus” characteristics: integrity, faith, hope, optimism, courage, initiative, generosity, tolerance, tact, kindness, good common sense. Regardless of who you are, or what situation you find yourself in, those characteristics illicit “adding to”.
Conversely, the opposite characteristics (deceit, suspicion, gloominess, pessimism, cowardice, slothfulness, stinginess, narrowness, rudeness, folly) are all detractors – they subtract from any situation
Sure, you could add other comparisons to the list. But the concept remains the same. Making things better is a responsibility for each of us. And note the word “today” in the middle of the question. It needs to happen now—there’s some urgency about it—there’s no waiting for the right conditions. Make it happen.
So, are you complaining about the problem—or committed to being part of the solution? It’s obvious which side we all need to be on—summed up in one simple question: “What are you doing today to make things better?”
Nevil Speer is an independent consultant based in Bowling Green, KY. The views and opinions expressed herein do not reflect, nor are associated with in any manner, any client or business relationship. He can be reached at nevil.speer@turkeytrack.biz.
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