Over the course of my short time here on Earth, I have had a multitude of jobs. Why is this important? Well, it's because there is no loyalty, no determination, no strength better than the powerful dynamic of a healthy, family owned and operated business. Period.
I know what you're thinking! Family owned and operated business aren't always healthy. Sometimes, they are quite the opposite, and you are absolutely right. No business is safe from the touch of corruption, negativity, or even hatred. It has been said (by who I don't remember) that family can hurt you the most out of anyone on this planet. And that, sadly, is also true. But for a second, let's pretend we're not all jaded and cynical.
Family business is so much more than just passing down a lineage, or an ownership title. When hardships occur, you aren't alone in weathering them. When triumph occurs, you are not alone when celebrating them. When you feel like you can't trust anyone, well guess what? You can trust in family. And that trust is what makes it all work.
My family and I fight when it comes to the business. Of course we do! I can't imagine it any other way for anyone else either. But the key is that we are always looking out for each other- this foundation of trust and honesty helps drive the business forward even in the face of horrific economic hardship. Even bankruptcy. This unique strength is something no other business can achieve. It is impossible, no matter how close, or friendly, or dedicated a workforce is.
Money becomes something to help the business opposed to a point of contention. Petty things come up, sure- but they are always put aside in the name of the business. In the name of its future, or even the family's future.
One thing I have never experienced in any job was the feeling of being part of a team. Often, I would be on the outside of cliques that would form internally due to the silly garbage of office politics. I also found that my seriousness about any given job was not shared, or even ridiculed. I am a firm believer that the phrase, "That's not my job!" shouldn't exist, and that everyone working together in any given job should be doing just that: actually working together! For the first time in my life, in my career, I can say that I am part of a team.
And it's a team that I believe in. Do you believe in your team?
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Showing posts with label work. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 22, 2015
Thursday, January 29, 2015
Rush Hour(s)
I've discovered something strange in my area.
Most people dread rush hour. It's when everyone clocks out, disconnects, and heads home. When I first started with Budget five years ago, rush hour in my area (New Jersey) was roughly from 05:00PM-06:00PM, with the final bits of congestion thinning out by 07:00PM. How do I know this? I've done the same commute to and from work just about every day of those five years. Honestly, it was easy to tell.
But this has changed. The rush hour has started to begin at 04:00PM (not too long ago really), and often, runs late into 07:00PM. Heavy traffic and congestion around these times are inevitable, as everyone is starting to go home. But! I've noticed that rush hour is not only longer now, but more hazardous. People often hang in large clusters on the highway, put putting along. As I look into these vehicles, I see the same thing all the time:
Fatigue. Or stress. Think about it- I'm sure you've been stuck in rush hour traffic at least once in your life. Have you once seen a happy face? Or hell, an emotionally neutral one? People look hollow. Vacant. Drained. These people are just moving forward through time and space to their next destination, unthinking. Probably exhausted, too.
I suspect that rush hour has gotten longer for two reasons. One, we are working more. A shift in the rush hour time, especially the beginning, may indicate traffic from supplementary or odd-houred jobs (when compared to the usual 9-5). Approaching 05:00PM, traffic is almost stopped, crawling inch by agonizing inch toward home. It only gets worse as it gets later, which could indicate that people are working later now, leaving work later. Longer hours, multiple jobs.
Busy does not mean productive. People drive home on their cellphones, probably still connected to their job somehow. I've seen people drift to the side of the road and jerk back, implying driver fatigue. Car crashes, stupid mistakes, everything. We are too tried and we are trying to do too many things.
Think long and hard about what is slowly happening, and how we are moving forward. How long will an average work week, or a shift be in twenty years? What will be expected as "just part of the job?" Think about it.
Most people dread rush hour. It's when everyone clocks out, disconnects, and heads home. When I first started with Budget five years ago, rush hour in my area (New Jersey) was roughly from 05:00PM-06:00PM, with the final bits of congestion thinning out by 07:00PM. How do I know this? I've done the same commute to and from work just about every day of those five years. Honestly, it was easy to tell.
But this has changed. The rush hour has started to begin at 04:00PM (not too long ago really), and often, runs late into 07:00PM. Heavy traffic and congestion around these times are inevitable, as everyone is starting to go home. But! I've noticed that rush hour is not only longer now, but more hazardous. People often hang in large clusters on the highway, put putting along. As I look into these vehicles, I see the same thing all the time:
Fatigue. Or stress. Think about it- I'm sure you've been stuck in rush hour traffic at least once in your life. Have you once seen a happy face? Or hell, an emotionally neutral one? People look hollow. Vacant. Drained. These people are just moving forward through time and space to their next destination, unthinking. Probably exhausted, too.
I suspect that rush hour has gotten longer for two reasons. One, we are working more. A shift in the rush hour time, especially the beginning, may indicate traffic from supplementary or odd-houred jobs (when compared to the usual 9-5). Approaching 05:00PM, traffic is almost stopped, crawling inch by agonizing inch toward home. It only gets worse as it gets later, which could indicate that people are working later now, leaving work later. Longer hours, multiple jobs.
Busy does not mean productive. People drive home on their cellphones, probably still connected to their job somehow. I've seen people drift to the side of the road and jerk back, implying driver fatigue. Car crashes, stupid mistakes, everything. We are too tried and we are trying to do too many things.
Think long and hard about what is slowly happening, and how we are moving forward. How long will an average work week, or a shift be in twenty years? What will be expected as "just part of the job?" Think about it.
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
We are Measuring Time Incorrectly
Business and humanity have evolved alongside one another for quite some time. Needless to say, the daily pace of normal and professional life has picked up considerably, yet we are still measuring time the same way. Therein lies the problem.
On planet Earth, we base our time on a 24 hour day with a seven day week. 28, 30, or 31 days in a month, 365 days a year. We base all of our business hours on these measurements of time, and all too often, there is NEVER enough time anywhere, any day. People work themselves sick (or to death) as we toil under the constant watchful, unwavering eye of time.
Why don't we just measure it differently?
Look at the world how it is. With all the fast paced careers, people working multiple jobs, business owners. Those who are employed have no choice but to work and balance their personal lives, all the while still trying to enjoy it, but all too often? They miss the mark. What if...we had 35 hours in a day? What about sticking with a 5 day work week, but adding an extra day onto the weekend? What if a month was 40, or 50 days instead?
Imagine all the extra work and life that you could fit into your life? What if we just...had extra time!? Would you sleep? Spend more time with your family? Explore education? Hobbies? All I'm saying is change the way we measure time, but keep the same pace.
Unlikely as that may be, we are only restricted by time because of how we measure it. When you have free time, think about what I've wrote. How will you measure time? Or better yet, how do you? Think about it.
On planet Earth, we base our time on a 24 hour day with a seven day week. 28, 30, or 31 days in a month, 365 days a year. We base all of our business hours on these measurements of time, and all too often, there is NEVER enough time anywhere, any day. People work themselves sick (or to death) as we toil under the constant watchful, unwavering eye of time.
Why don't we just measure it differently?
Look at the world how it is. With all the fast paced careers, people working multiple jobs, business owners. Those who are employed have no choice but to work and balance their personal lives, all the while still trying to enjoy it, but all too often? They miss the mark. What if...we had 35 hours in a day? What about sticking with a 5 day work week, but adding an extra day onto the weekend? What if a month was 40, or 50 days instead?
Imagine all the extra work and life that you could fit into your life? What if we just...had extra time!? Would you sleep? Spend more time with your family? Explore education? Hobbies? All I'm saying is change the way we measure time, but keep the same pace.
Unlikely as that may be, we are only restricted by time because of how we measure it. When you have free time, think about what I've wrote. How will you measure time? Or better yet, how do you? Think about it.
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
An Important Lesson
Not too long ago, my father and I went on an estimate. This estimate was a little unique as it turned out- a person needed help cleaning their basement, and their basement only. It's not something we typically do, so I was curious as to why we were doing it. I kept asking my dad why we had chosen to do this estimate, and he kept repeating, "this person asked for help with their basement." The way he chose to phrase his response hung with me for some reason.
As we were driving out there, my father and I spoke about fun things, food, business, movies, television, the usual. It was nice, I must say. One of my favorite things to do at work, actually, is to go on first time cleanings and estimates with my father. He has a lot to teach, and simply by watching him work, one can learn a lot. We also do carpet cleanings together.
After a long time, we finally came to the house, and the owner was out to greet us. She was very kind, warm, and welcoming as she led us down to the basement. She also told her story as to why she needed us in the first place. Apparently, they had flooded (it had been drained when we were there), and a lot of old keepsakes were destroyed or damaged. She wanted to make sure that the basement was squeaky clean for fear of mold, mildew, and other unsavory basement surprises. But she was unable to clean it herself.
It was then I learned that we went to do this estimate to simply help someone. Would we turn a profit? No. But that's not what mattered. It turns out, she also wanted to the floor painted, which is something we don't do. But! We know a handyman (a damn good one to boot) that is the husband of a Budget employee, and referred him immediately.
My Dad and I walked out of the house when we were through, and then when we got back in the car, he explained why we came all the way out there- money wasn't the goal (what a concept, right?). We went out there to help someone in need, and in this instance, point them in the right direction. So what if we didn't make a buck?
That simple experience is one I will never forget because my father was able to summarize Budget's entire mission with a single act of kindness. We are here to help people. Yes, we are also in business to make money, but money comes and goes so quickly nowadays. We're so focused on it. And if we had been focused on money and nothing else, this person could still be struggling without us. And even the probability of that happening doesn't fly with me.
I'm not writing this as a commercial, or as a way to brag about how amazing Budget is. This entry is to remind us all that money is just an object. The real reason we should ALL be in business is to help others.
Money is fickle. Why follow its lead?
As we were driving out there, my father and I spoke about fun things, food, business, movies, television, the usual. It was nice, I must say. One of my favorite things to do at work, actually, is to go on first time cleanings and estimates with my father. He has a lot to teach, and simply by watching him work, one can learn a lot. We also do carpet cleanings together.
After a long time, we finally came to the house, and the owner was out to greet us. She was very kind, warm, and welcoming as she led us down to the basement. She also told her story as to why she needed us in the first place. Apparently, they had flooded (it had been drained when we were there), and a lot of old keepsakes were destroyed or damaged. She wanted to make sure that the basement was squeaky clean for fear of mold, mildew, and other unsavory basement surprises. But she was unable to clean it herself.
It was then I learned that we went to do this estimate to simply help someone. Would we turn a profit? No. But that's not what mattered. It turns out, she also wanted to the floor painted, which is something we don't do. But! We know a handyman (a damn good one to boot) that is the husband of a Budget employee, and referred him immediately.
My Dad and I walked out of the house when we were through, and then when we got back in the car, he explained why we came all the way out there- money wasn't the goal (what a concept, right?). We went out there to help someone in need, and in this instance, point them in the right direction. So what if we didn't make a buck?
That simple experience is one I will never forget because my father was able to summarize Budget's entire mission with a single act of kindness. We are here to help people. Yes, we are also in business to make money, but money comes and goes so quickly nowadays. We're so focused on it. And if we had been focused on money and nothing else, this person could still be struggling without us. And even the probability of that happening doesn't fly with me.
I'm not writing this as a commercial, or as a way to brag about how amazing Budget is. This entry is to remind us all that money is just an object. The real reason we should ALL be in business is to help others.
Money is fickle. Why follow its lead?
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
Employees: Friends or Assets?
Neither.
In the workplace, there are many different obstacles and trials to confront and overcome. One of these is human nature. Sure, we can say we're professional. We can act that way, dress that way. But beneath the surface of that smiling suit is a person. A person with emotions, desires, and ideas. Should your employee be your friend? As an owner, no. Should they just be another expendable asset in a spreadsheet? Absolutely not. Balance is key.
I hear too many stories about hundreds of people being laid off en masse from a huge company. Hell, way back when, I received a pink slip along with five thousand other hardworking people because the company I worked for decided to outsource all of our jobs. And there's my problem, right there. I understand that there is a company to maintain and sustain. But people are alive. They have feelings, they can be hurt. They can feel neglected, or used.
See? They're seen just as assets. Expendables. This is just wrong. I'm sorry, but it is. Now don't get me wrong. If an employee is not doing his/her job, you should consider giving them the axe, but there are right ways and wrong ways to go about doing it.
Then there's the other hand. Employees as best friends. Employers playing favorites, getting comfortable. There is no pulling back once you have made the plunge from employee to friend, especially if you share company/personal secrets with him or her. Most employees? I don't think they would hold sensitive information against you, but. Some will. Period. Once a boss becomes too personable, they lose authority, and are easily written off. I've seen it firsthand! As they lose authority, they lose respect, and then? Well. Do you really need to know what's next?
Balance is key. The maintenance and health of a business is very important- not only to you but to your employees too. Whether they wanted to or not, they are working at your establishment, your business. But they are not robots. They are people. And should be treated with respect. That's the key. Respect is a finite commodity. It ebbs and flows with society, and it also changes on the fly in everyday situations.
Friendship is...difficult in business, especially when defining the boundaries of employee/employer relationships, but a surefire thing that everyone recognizes is respect. Have respect for yourself and your business first, and everything else that revolves around these two very important items should start to settle into their proper perspectives.
In the workplace, there are many different obstacles and trials to confront and overcome. One of these is human nature. Sure, we can say we're professional. We can act that way, dress that way. But beneath the surface of that smiling suit is a person. A person with emotions, desires, and ideas. Should your employee be your friend? As an owner, no. Should they just be another expendable asset in a spreadsheet? Absolutely not. Balance is key.
I hear too many stories about hundreds of people being laid off en masse from a huge company. Hell, way back when, I received a pink slip along with five thousand other hardworking people because the company I worked for decided to outsource all of our jobs. And there's my problem, right there. I understand that there is a company to maintain and sustain. But people are alive. They have feelings, they can be hurt. They can feel neglected, or used.
See? They're seen just as assets. Expendables. This is just wrong. I'm sorry, but it is. Now don't get me wrong. If an employee is not doing his/her job, you should consider giving them the axe, but there are right ways and wrong ways to go about doing it.
Then there's the other hand. Employees as best friends. Employers playing favorites, getting comfortable. There is no pulling back once you have made the plunge from employee to friend, especially if you share company/personal secrets with him or her. Most employees? I don't think they would hold sensitive information against you, but. Some will. Period. Once a boss becomes too personable, they lose authority, and are easily written off. I've seen it firsthand! As they lose authority, they lose respect, and then? Well. Do you really need to know what's next?
Balance is key. The maintenance and health of a business is very important- not only to you but to your employees too. Whether they wanted to or not, they are working at your establishment, your business. But they are not robots. They are people. And should be treated with respect. That's the key. Respect is a finite commodity. It ebbs and flows with society, and it also changes on the fly in everyday situations.
Friendship is...difficult in business, especially when defining the boundaries of employee/employer relationships, but a surefire thing that everyone recognizes is respect. Have respect for yourself and your business first, and everything else that revolves around these two very important items should start to settle into their proper perspectives.
Friday, April 4, 2014
Dealing with Theft in the Workplace
Money causes trouble. Bottom line. When money is involved, mark my words- everyone will have their eye on the bottom line. That being said, some individuals may not approve of their bottom line and search for other...opportunities in spite of morality or decency.
Theft occurs in the workplace. Where there are humans, there are thieves and heroes, basically. But as a manager, theft means something completely different, and it is a scary notion to entertain. I mean, think about it: someone you hired went into a house, took money (or whatever), and then left without a second word. Don't just limit this to a cleaning business, either. If you are an owner/manager, one of the things on your mind should be loss prevention.
An associate of mine runs a business. Runs it well! Unfortunately, he had a bad run with a few hiring websites, and he got some people that were less than ideal. A few would steal from the company and the customers, along with poor attitude and a whole host of other things. And he could have avoided the madness and frustration of a resolving the matter in if he knew how to deal with theft better.
The idea is not solving the problem after it has begun- it's solving the problem before it happens. I did some research and found good information in this article detailing the ways you can keep theft nonexistent, or minimal.But tips and tricks aside, a mindset is what you need more than anything.
Going back to my associate, he not only did his own personal investigation, but certain customers wished to have the police involved, and he had to cooperate. He also lost these customers and will never get them back due to the trust lost. He had to find good people (although now he's gunshy) to replace the bad apples, and he had to get his insurance company involved to help cover the value of any stolen items.
My bottom line is this. Money is useful. It is everywhere, and it dictates much. So knowing that, keep two things in your mind. One- never be satisfied with the appearance of "everything is okay", and Two- know who you are hiring first because the money you might save in not doing a background check will cost you much, much more in the end. Just ask my associate!
Theft occurs in the workplace. Where there are humans, there are thieves and heroes, basically. But as a manager, theft means something completely different, and it is a scary notion to entertain. I mean, think about it: someone you hired went into a house, took money (or whatever), and then left without a second word. Don't just limit this to a cleaning business, either. If you are an owner/manager, one of the things on your mind should be loss prevention.
An associate of mine runs a business. Runs it well! Unfortunately, he had a bad run with a few hiring websites, and he got some people that were less than ideal. A few would steal from the company and the customers, along with poor attitude and a whole host of other things. And he could have avoided the madness and frustration of a resolving the matter in if he knew how to deal with theft better.
The idea is not solving the problem after it has begun- it's solving the problem before it happens. I did some research and found good information in this article detailing the ways you can keep theft nonexistent, or minimal.But tips and tricks aside, a mindset is what you need more than anything.
Going back to my associate, he not only did his own personal investigation, but certain customers wished to have the police involved, and he had to cooperate. He also lost these customers and will never get them back due to the trust lost. He had to find good people (although now he's gunshy) to replace the bad apples, and he had to get his insurance company involved to help cover the value of any stolen items.
My bottom line is this. Money is useful. It is everywhere, and it dictates much. So knowing that, keep two things in your mind. One- never be satisfied with the appearance of "everything is okay", and Two- know who you are hiring first because the money you might save in not doing a background check will cost you much, much more in the end. Just ask my associate!
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Going the Extra Mile
There's a phrase that is certain to set someone up for failure: "going the extra mile." It is difficult to quantify what that mile is; especially in the metaphorical sense as it is applied to daily situations.
Working harder or longer is not a bad thing. The extra mile for you might be staying an hour later, or handling a project when no-one else would. But the meaning changes with the person, and their superiors. Is your extra mile as long as it needs to be? As silly as that sounds, it's true. How can we ever know if we are living up to the expectations of a boss? Ourself? There is no way to know. That's why I hate that phrase, especially when it is used in a business setting.
People will work until they die. Literally. I have this family member you see that keeps his nose to the grindstone. Works hard, doesn't slack off, and planned on enjoying his leisure years. As soon as he retired, he was dead.
What a waste.
Work is a beautiful thing. It supplies ourselves and others with invaluable goods and services, things that we could probably no longer live with, or at least live well with. But when your entire life becomes "the extra mile", you stop looking where you need to go, and simply focus on moving forward.
An extra mile, simply put, should be defined by you. Work is typically a group activity, or at least indirectly. I've said this before- it is pointless to work if you are not resting and enjoying your own life. If all you ever do is go the extra mile, you won't even be able to continue your career's journey. Only you know what you can and can't do. Don't let anyone tell you how to "go the extra mile" because what works for them, may not work for you. And that, my friend, is your discovery. And yours alone.
Working harder or longer is not a bad thing. The extra mile for you might be staying an hour later, or handling a project when no-one else would. But the meaning changes with the person, and their superiors. Is your extra mile as long as it needs to be? As silly as that sounds, it's true. How can we ever know if we are living up to the expectations of a boss? Ourself? There is no way to know. That's why I hate that phrase, especially when it is used in a business setting.
People will work until they die. Literally. I have this family member you see that keeps his nose to the grindstone. Works hard, doesn't slack off, and planned on enjoying his leisure years. As soon as he retired, he was dead.
What a waste.
Work is a beautiful thing. It supplies ourselves and others with invaluable goods and services, things that we could probably no longer live with, or at least live well with. But when your entire life becomes "the extra mile", you stop looking where you need to go, and simply focus on moving forward.
An extra mile, simply put, should be defined by you. Work is typically a group activity, or at least indirectly. I've said this before- it is pointless to work if you are not resting and enjoying your own life. If all you ever do is go the extra mile, you won't even be able to continue your career's journey. Only you know what you can and can't do. Don't let anyone tell you how to "go the extra mile" because what works for them, may not work for you. And that, my friend, is your discovery. And yours alone.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
People Mean More than Money
Some businesses are under the impression all over the world that human lives and safety must take a back seat to profit and running the business.
They are wrong.
There comes a time when one must decide if they are to be the owner that forces their employees to come in to work in danger, or in safety. Some owners will argue that, "I can't lose this money!", or "we have to think of the customers!" when it comes to pushing a work day. It's this type of thinking that is just so tragically skewed, and can often lead to tragedy.
Here in New Jersey, we've been hit with a lot of snow. And ice. And cold. And there are a lot of owner/operators out there that are still running their business. In spite of hazards (let's focus on weather, but really? This concept can be applied to anything), some owners become desperate because of loss of work, or some owners don't care at all about worker safety and just their profit margin.
If forcing a work day in hazardous conditions isn't bad enough during bad weather, it is also understood that employees will have a difficult time going to and from work. But that owner. Oh, that owner has other ideas. I'm at work, why shouldn't everyone else be? Because you're wrong, that's why.
To be clear, Budget has closed twice this week because it was simply not safe to work. And that fact should be enough for any business to cease work, or to improve work conditions (if applicable).
That being said, owners can be a strange breed. I, wanting to be a future owner, well. I already started off as a strange breed, but I have seen many owners across MANY. Many. Different jobs waste and conserve money (across many situations) with no rhyme or reason, with no cause, with no sense.
And when it makes the most sense to duck out of the working world for a day, that's where no sense is usually found.
It is also in my experience that when businesses force a work day, they wind up closing early because of the snow, and usually? Customers that would patronize an establishment would stay indoors because they got the day off thanks to bad weather. The money gets lost, the morale gets lost, and life could get lost. For what?
Money.
I, for one, will not be that type of owner, and I am very proud to say that I work for a company whose owner places human life above making a buck. I am going to use common sense to know when it's safe to work, and when we should all just stay home. I am not lazy. I work my ass off, and then I work my leg bones off for this business. The business that I will one day have the pride of running.
But if I'm to be expected to value it over people, well then that's going to be a problem. And if being that way doesn't make me successful?
I'm ok with that!
They are wrong.
There comes a time when one must decide if they are to be the owner that forces their employees to come in to work in danger, or in safety. Some owners will argue that, "I can't lose this money!", or "we have to think of the customers!" when it comes to pushing a work day. It's this type of thinking that is just so tragically skewed, and can often lead to tragedy.
Here in New Jersey, we've been hit with a lot of snow. And ice. And cold. And there are a lot of owner/operators out there that are still running their business. In spite of hazards (let's focus on weather, but really? This concept can be applied to anything), some owners become desperate because of loss of work, or some owners don't care at all about worker safety and just their profit margin.
If forcing a work day in hazardous conditions isn't bad enough during bad weather, it is also understood that employees will have a difficult time going to and from work. But that owner. Oh, that owner has other ideas. I'm at work, why shouldn't everyone else be? Because you're wrong, that's why.
To be clear, Budget has closed twice this week because it was simply not safe to work. And that fact should be enough for any business to cease work, or to improve work conditions (if applicable).
That being said, owners can be a strange breed. I, wanting to be a future owner, well. I already started off as a strange breed, but I have seen many owners across MANY. Many. Different jobs waste and conserve money (across many situations) with no rhyme or reason, with no cause, with no sense.
And when it makes the most sense to duck out of the working world for a day, that's where no sense is usually found.
It is also in my experience that when businesses force a work day, they wind up closing early because of the snow, and usually? Customers that would patronize an establishment would stay indoors because they got the day off thanks to bad weather. The money gets lost, the morale gets lost, and life could get lost. For what?
Money.
I, for one, will not be that type of owner, and I am very proud to say that I work for a company whose owner places human life above making a buck. I am going to use common sense to know when it's safe to work, and when we should all just stay home. I am not lazy. I work my ass off, and then I work my leg bones off for this business. The business that I will one day have the pride of running.
But if I'm to be expected to value it over people, well then that's going to be a problem. And if being that way doesn't make me successful?
I'm ok with that!
Thursday, January 16, 2014
How to Work when you Don't Want To
Willpower is an amazing thing. It helps us do countless things in our life, and it also helps shape us as individuals. It is something that constantly needs to be maintained and developed, or it becomes lost. Work demands a lot from us. Physical, mental, emotional. It always has an impact. But what to do if you stagnate? Get tired? Depressed? There's no simple answer there. But I do have some tips and tricks that could help get you back on track.
I hear a lot of complaints about lack of energy. Waking up, getting up, doing tasks. There are oral ways to combat this, like coffee, energy drinks, etc. Me? I choose to work through it. Piece by piece, when I'm tired? I do one task at a time until it's done. As I work when I'm tried, I build up a resistance to fatigue. Once again, willpower.
Depression, or similar feelings that we harbor within ourselves often make very unpleasant and unwelcome debuts at work. Not only does it look bad, it can get you fired if the timing is right. Of course, if you think you have depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness you should get help. But help isn't always readily available, and sometimes? You must trudge on.
When I feel down, I latch onto something that has meaning, deep personal meaning. The answer for me is obvious- my wife! I can be a little self destructive, and I will usually cut my nose off to spite my face just for the hell of it. But. One of the only ways I can keep it all together is thinking of my wife. I stop thinking about working, and start working because of her. For me, she is a compass heading that helps get me through days where I'm feeling blue. Find a core and hold onto it. Endure. Be calm.
What about good ol' fashioned stagnation? No matter how much we love our jobs, or no matter how motivated we are, humans lose heart. It's the nature of our being. And in my opinion? Losing heart is the quickest way to find yourself trapped within a job you despise.
When you feel like you're stagnating, ask for more work. Or, if you're overwhelmed, ask for less. It may seem strange to do this, especially if you're speaking to your boss, but any manager/owner worth their salt will, at the very least, listen to your concerns and try to help you. Sometimes, just outing a work problem you have can be therapeutic. Speak up!
Work is hard. It is taxing. But it is not something we should face each day with a knot of regret, or disgust. When the going gets tough, endurance will prevail. Evolution and survival are key elements of the world, you know. It applies to the animal world, and the human world. You wanna make it out there? Endure. Work hard, and endure. When you see your opportunity, don't grab it. Attack it, because there might not be another chance.
I hear a lot of complaints about lack of energy. Waking up, getting up, doing tasks. There are oral ways to combat this, like coffee, energy drinks, etc. Me? I choose to work through it. Piece by piece, when I'm tired? I do one task at a time until it's done. As I work when I'm tried, I build up a resistance to fatigue. Once again, willpower.
Depression, or similar feelings that we harbor within ourselves often make very unpleasant and unwelcome debuts at work. Not only does it look bad, it can get you fired if the timing is right. Of course, if you think you have depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness you should get help. But help isn't always readily available, and sometimes? You must trudge on.
When I feel down, I latch onto something that has meaning, deep personal meaning. The answer for me is obvious- my wife! I can be a little self destructive, and I will usually cut my nose off to spite my face just for the hell of it. But. One of the only ways I can keep it all together is thinking of my wife. I stop thinking about working, and start working because of her. For me, she is a compass heading that helps get me through days where I'm feeling blue. Find a core and hold onto it. Endure. Be calm.
What about good ol' fashioned stagnation? No matter how much we love our jobs, or no matter how motivated we are, humans lose heart. It's the nature of our being. And in my opinion? Losing heart is the quickest way to find yourself trapped within a job you despise.
When you feel like you're stagnating, ask for more work. Or, if you're overwhelmed, ask for less. It may seem strange to do this, especially if you're speaking to your boss, but any manager/owner worth their salt will, at the very least, listen to your concerns and try to help you. Sometimes, just outing a work problem you have can be therapeutic. Speak up!
Work is hard. It is taxing. But it is not something we should face each day with a knot of regret, or disgust. When the going gets tough, endurance will prevail. Evolution and survival are key elements of the world, you know. It applies to the animal world, and the human world. You wanna make it out there? Endure. Work hard, and endure. When you see your opportunity, don't grab it. Attack it, because there might not be another chance.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Reflections and Motivations
Reflection on a year that's come to pass can be a difficult thing, but it always should be done in business. Motivation is a constant, however, that needs to be maintained like any other useful tool. Using both together makes for a good plan that anyone can be empowered by.
Work is hard, man. It is. No matter what you're doing, no matter how much you love it, work is difficult. And there are many times during the year when we work that we would have liked to do something differently.
Mistakes are invaluable. When we look back on what we've done incorrectly, we typically learn from these situations and come out much wiser on the other side. Not everyone does this, nor does every business. At the end of a year, I like to reflect on good and bad decisions made during the year, not just in business! But for myself as well. I mean, you are working at your job, so your own personal well being and growth is important, too.
So that's why I make a very simple New Year's resolution. Every year it's the same thing, it's the same broad goal that can be easily measured by any means I wish. My resolution? "Be a better person." And let's strip morality, personal flaws, habits. Let's strip that all away and just focus on business. When you work, if you're miserable for whatever reason, your work suffers. As you come to terms with your flaws, you learn how to use what you're good at much better.
Today is New Year's Eve, so I'll keep this short. Party hard, party safe, work harder, and evolve. Evolve as a person, and your business will follow.
Have a happy, healthy New Year, and don't hate yourself for your mistakes. Learn from them!
Work is hard, man. It is. No matter what you're doing, no matter how much you love it, work is difficult. And there are many times during the year when we work that we would have liked to do something differently.
Mistakes are invaluable. When we look back on what we've done incorrectly, we typically learn from these situations and come out much wiser on the other side. Not everyone does this, nor does every business. At the end of a year, I like to reflect on good and bad decisions made during the year, not just in business! But for myself as well. I mean, you are working at your job, so your own personal well being and growth is important, too.
So that's why I make a very simple New Year's resolution. Every year it's the same thing, it's the same broad goal that can be easily measured by any means I wish. My resolution? "Be a better person." And let's strip morality, personal flaws, habits. Let's strip that all away and just focus on business. When you work, if you're miserable for whatever reason, your work suffers. As you come to terms with your flaws, you learn how to use what you're good at much better.
Today is New Year's Eve, so I'll keep this short. Party hard, party safe, work harder, and evolve. Evolve as a person, and your business will follow.
Have a happy, healthy New Year, and don't hate yourself for your mistakes. Learn from them!
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Dealing with REALLY Angry Customers
Customer dissatisfaction occurs for a number of different reasons, and just as varied are the reactions of our customers to said dissatisfaction. Hey, as long as business is run by humans for humans, there will be mistakes made. And sometimes, the mistakes will be yours to own up to.
Lemmie get one thing straight before I begin, though. The strategies and tips that I am writing about have developed over many different jobs with many different customers. I'm not singling anyone out! Anyway, let's get right into it.
The first thing I notice is that everyone approaches the concept of dissatisfaction incorrectly. Both sides of the fence too; both customer and client. Things go wrong. It happens. And in all honesty, a customer knows when they are in a business relationship that is just plain useless. But that doesn't matter right now. What matters is that both sides are currently divided- the customer is unhappy, and it's the fault of the business. When dealing with these situations, try to remember the following points:
1. Some customers will take mistakes personally. They just do. Instead of matching their emotion, get on their side. Don't trash talk the company you work for, but if you or your organization made a legitimate error that led to a customer's dissatisfaction, own up to it! Let the customer know that the whole business is on their side, and you are merely their guide towards compromise. Honesty.
2. Stay calm. You must never scream or insult a customer. Stay even. Keep your tone regular, and constantly remind them that whatever problems they are having can, and will, be solved. Some customers will get nasty, and swear or abuse you. Don't get mad! Simply inform them that if they are going to continue to talk to you in this manner, that you will hang up. And if they continue guess what?
HANG UP. Life's to freakin' short, man.
3. Empathy, not sympathy. In a perfect situation, a business knows whether or not its at fault for something that has caused a customer's displeasure, and that customer is telling the truth. This is not always the case, but let's pretend we live in a perfect world. You are not the customer's slave, and they are not just dollar signs. When you work on coming up with a solution to the customer's complaint, always keep compromise in mind. Make sure the customer knows that you want to work towards a solution that works for everyone, not just the customer. And not just you.
4. Same team! I can't emphasize this enough. You and your customer are on the same team. There is no "us versus them" mentality that applies here.You want them to keep on frequenting your business, and they want to get their issue resolved. Now that you've chosen sides, meet in the middle! There are myriad ways to deal with problems. Don't limit yourself!
5. Sometimes...people suck. It's true. Sometimes, you just come across someone that is just plain nasty, and no matter what you do, they are never happy and always a miserable chore to deal with. These aren't customers. These are bullies. And no matter how much their business is worth to you, you should never put up with outright cruelty. Do not be afraid to divorce from certain customers. Sometimes, it's the best and only choice for both of you.
In summation, just be a good human being to each other. Put yourself in their shoes, and try to understand the situation from their point of view. When you look at an unhappy customer and decide to be on their side, you'll get much better results than approaching such a situation in an accusatory, or defensive manner. People are people the world around, and on the most part, people want to be treated fairly, and with respect. That's it.
Go spread some joy, willya?
Lemmie get one thing straight before I begin, though. The strategies and tips that I am writing about have developed over many different jobs with many different customers. I'm not singling anyone out! Anyway, let's get right into it.
The first thing I notice is that everyone approaches the concept of dissatisfaction incorrectly. Both sides of the fence too; both customer and client. Things go wrong. It happens. And in all honesty, a customer knows when they are in a business relationship that is just plain useless. But that doesn't matter right now. What matters is that both sides are currently divided- the customer is unhappy, and it's the fault of the business. When dealing with these situations, try to remember the following points:
1. Some customers will take mistakes personally. They just do. Instead of matching their emotion, get on their side. Don't trash talk the company you work for, but if you or your organization made a legitimate error that led to a customer's dissatisfaction, own up to it! Let the customer know that the whole business is on their side, and you are merely their guide towards compromise. Honesty.
2. Stay calm. You must never scream or insult a customer. Stay even. Keep your tone regular, and constantly remind them that whatever problems they are having can, and will, be solved. Some customers will get nasty, and swear or abuse you. Don't get mad! Simply inform them that if they are going to continue to talk to you in this manner, that you will hang up. And if they continue guess what?
HANG UP. Life's to freakin' short, man.
3. Empathy, not sympathy. In a perfect situation, a business knows whether or not its at fault for something that has caused a customer's displeasure, and that customer is telling the truth. This is not always the case, but let's pretend we live in a perfect world. You are not the customer's slave, and they are not just dollar signs. When you work on coming up with a solution to the customer's complaint, always keep compromise in mind. Make sure the customer knows that you want to work towards a solution that works for everyone, not just the customer. And not just you.
4. Same team! I can't emphasize this enough. You and your customer are on the same team. There is no "us versus them" mentality that applies here.You want them to keep on frequenting your business, and they want to get their issue resolved. Now that you've chosen sides, meet in the middle! There are myriad ways to deal with problems. Don't limit yourself!
5. Sometimes...people suck. It's true. Sometimes, you just come across someone that is just plain nasty, and no matter what you do, they are never happy and always a miserable chore to deal with. These aren't customers. These are bullies. And no matter how much their business is worth to you, you should never put up with outright cruelty. Do not be afraid to divorce from certain customers. Sometimes, it's the best and only choice for both of you.
In summation, just be a good human being to each other. Put yourself in their shoes, and try to understand the situation from their point of view. When you look at an unhappy customer and decide to be on their side, you'll get much better results than approaching such a situation in an accusatory, or defensive manner. People are people the world around, and on the most part, people want to be treated fairly, and with respect. That's it.
Go spread some joy, willya?
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Vacations can Save your Life
Not hypothetically. In reality.
I am a strong advocate of working hard, and playing hard. Quite often, these two can mix and cause damage. Or great success if the timing is right. Now we all work hard, right? Grinding away, making sure things get done, people get paid, and our business grows well. Long hours, extra tasks, extra stress, it's all in the name of creating a better life and business. No time to rest- the business isn't waiting. It needs to be constantly fed, constantly maintained! Well. I've got news for you.
Not taking a vacation can actually kill you.
Not immediately of course. But it can. The article included above, written by an actual doctor opposed to some random blogger like myself, states that a study comprised of 12 thousand men was conducted over the course of 14 years. It found that "...taking multiple vacations, up to five a year, resulted in a 32% lower chance of death from all causes, compared to the men who didn't take vacations." That's pretty powerful.
In a different view, this blogger (I had to include one) takes a more philosophical approach to a vacation saving your life. His views are simple: we work too much, and we forget that there is more to life than your next work shift. Vacations aren't the thing that's important. It's the break, the ability to unwind, the ability to let your guard down. That's what really matters. You don't have to go anywhere to do whatever you want, to be honest.
And let's not forget about one of the most insidious killers in the United States. Stress. Chronic stress has a LOT of health problems associated with it. I mean, you name it. Heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke. But here's the funny thing.
What I find the most alarming is the contradictory nature of the "more work is better" model. We work hard. Forever. Never taking vacations, always mired in responsibility and stress, and then? We wind up dead for all our trouble. So...work has to cease when you're dead, correct? So how is this model helping anyone? It's not, that's how.
Vacations are not excuses to be lazy. Rather, they are rewards for a lot of hard work that we all do. If we cannot reward ourselves, how will we even know when we get the carrot attached to the stick that we've been following for so long?
I am a strong advocate of working hard, and playing hard. Quite often, these two can mix and cause damage. Or great success if the timing is right. Now we all work hard, right? Grinding away, making sure things get done, people get paid, and our business grows well. Long hours, extra tasks, extra stress, it's all in the name of creating a better life and business. No time to rest- the business isn't waiting. It needs to be constantly fed, constantly maintained! Well. I've got news for you.
Not taking a vacation can actually kill you.
Not immediately of course. But it can. The article included above, written by an actual doctor opposed to some random blogger like myself, states that a study comprised of 12 thousand men was conducted over the course of 14 years. It found that "...taking multiple vacations, up to five a year, resulted in a 32% lower chance of death from all causes, compared to the men who didn't take vacations." That's pretty powerful.
In a different view, this blogger (I had to include one) takes a more philosophical approach to a vacation saving your life. His views are simple: we work too much, and we forget that there is more to life than your next work shift. Vacations aren't the thing that's important. It's the break, the ability to unwind, the ability to let your guard down. That's what really matters. You don't have to go anywhere to do whatever you want, to be honest.
And let's not forget about one of the most insidious killers in the United States. Stress. Chronic stress has a LOT of health problems associated with it. I mean, you name it. Heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke. But here's the funny thing.
What I find the most alarming is the contradictory nature of the "more work is better" model. We work hard. Forever. Never taking vacations, always mired in responsibility and stress, and then? We wind up dead for all our trouble. So...work has to cease when you're dead, correct? So how is this model helping anyone? It's not, that's how.
Vacations are not excuses to be lazy. Rather, they are rewards for a lot of hard work that we all do. If we cannot reward ourselves, how will we even know when we get the carrot attached to the stick that we've been following for so long?
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Change in Business- Change your Business
Change is good. Overall, anyway. I've noticed that a simple shift of tactics, or a different piece of equipment, or even a new employee, can breathe new life into a business that is stagnating. Here's the thing though- your business is always stagnating if you aren't helping it evolve.
There is no one way to do anything. As life continues and so does business, shades of grey are being added to the spectrum or reality every day. Forgive the metaphorical side note, but it's true! Many businesses that I have worked at before coming to Budget were perpetually stuck. Just stuck in their own ways and habits so deeply, that they were in complete denial when the proof of such errors slapped them in the face.
Business, like anything, can get really boring if nothing is going on. And I don't mean cash transactions, or store activity. What you sell, whether it's a product or a service, is merely a tiny fraction of your total business. The people you employ, the business practices you enforce, the brand of coffee you serve in the break room. It's all part of one entity- it's the most life an intangible concept like "a business" can achieve.
Change what's not broken. Fix what is. Constantly evolve.
Change can be scary, I know. Many people out there are resistant or downright hostile towards the concept of change, but it is merely a base fear triggered by the encounter of something new. Humans fear the unknown, but they are eager to accept changes that make their life better. In that same vein, your employees and yourself are good metrics for new things that you are trying out in business. See how the employees respond. See how you respond. Change is good, but it isn't always the best option.
Don't be afraid to look at your current systems, employees, and equipment with an eye on the future. Is what you are doing working? Don't blame the economy. It could very well be you. And this brings me to my main point. If I can't sell you on change now, I won't ever.
Sometimes, carrying on the same way you have always done can get you in trouble. Especially if you are in a situation where you are trying to do the same old same old to fix a problem that requires a different touch. That fear of change might have saved some businesses here and there. Maybe a change you are unwilling to make is finally accepting help or guidance from others. It's a common fear and a matter of pride that will do nothing but hold you back.
If you are reluctant about changing your business up here and there, start with your own personal life. Do something different, get coffee from a different shop, eat an unusual breakfast, do something different! The more we settle in our ways, the more our business suffers. You work is a reflection of yourself- make sure you recognize your face in the mirror.
There is no one way to do anything. As life continues and so does business, shades of grey are being added to the spectrum or reality every day. Forgive the metaphorical side note, but it's true! Many businesses that I have worked at before coming to Budget were perpetually stuck. Just stuck in their own ways and habits so deeply, that they were in complete denial when the proof of such errors slapped them in the face.
Business, like anything, can get really boring if nothing is going on. And I don't mean cash transactions, or store activity. What you sell, whether it's a product or a service, is merely a tiny fraction of your total business. The people you employ, the business practices you enforce, the brand of coffee you serve in the break room. It's all part of one entity- it's the most life an intangible concept like "a business" can achieve.
Change what's not broken. Fix what is. Constantly evolve.
Change can be scary, I know. Many people out there are resistant or downright hostile towards the concept of change, but it is merely a base fear triggered by the encounter of something new. Humans fear the unknown, but they are eager to accept changes that make their life better. In that same vein, your employees and yourself are good metrics for new things that you are trying out in business. See how the employees respond. See how you respond. Change is good, but it isn't always the best option.
Don't be afraid to look at your current systems, employees, and equipment with an eye on the future. Is what you are doing working? Don't blame the economy. It could very well be you. And this brings me to my main point. If I can't sell you on change now, I won't ever.
Sometimes, carrying on the same way you have always done can get you in trouble. Especially if you are in a situation where you are trying to do the same old same old to fix a problem that requires a different touch. That fear of change might have saved some businesses here and there. Maybe a change you are unwilling to make is finally accepting help or guidance from others. It's a common fear and a matter of pride that will do nothing but hold you back.
If you are reluctant about changing your business up here and there, start with your own personal life. Do something different, get coffee from a different shop, eat an unusual breakfast, do something different! The more we settle in our ways, the more our business suffers. You work is a reflection of yourself- make sure you recognize your face in the mirror.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Deadly Commute
If you're anything like me, you get up REALLY early and drive to work for a while.This seems innocuous enough, but it can get dangerous. Not to mention all the usual hazards of driving, but there is something that I fight every day that I simply wasn't expecting. Fatigue. More specifically, falling asleep when I'm driving.
Fortunately, I have never completely fallen asleep at the wheel and driven off a road, or gotten into a car crash. But there have been times too close for comfort. Falling asleep at red lights, or in bumper to bumper traffic is another problem. This is a common problem as I learned from some basic research. There is even an article on how to stay awake while driving.
This seems like a boring subject, I know. But it is something that many, many people face every day when driving to, or coming home from work. You know how it is! Whether it's a poor night sleep, lack of sleep, boredom, things make us tired, and sometimes we have no control over when. And falling asleep while driving doesn't always end well. There are consequences which should be obvious.
Sleepy drivers, as I found out, can be just as dangerous as drunk drivers. I found this article that laid it all out quite nicely. It's a real problem with real consequences. Like any problem, there are usually a whole host of ways to solve it.
As for me, I've learned tips and tricks here and there, and I even recognized a few from the article that helps me stay awake when I'm pushing through my morning commute. Drinking cold water helps, along with moving your body so that you can never get completely comfortable. Strong flavors work well too, especially ones that you don't like. I avoid energy drinks like the plague when driving- if the drink wears off while I'm behind the wheel, now I have double the amount of grogginess that I have to deal with.
Your commute's time of day and work schedule can also screw you up so badly that you may develop Shift Work Sleep Disorder, or SWSD. I never even knew about it until I did some research. Evidently, people that suffer from this disorder either can't fall asleep, or fall asleep at inopportune times. Combine this with a commute that varies in time and involves a lot of steady driving, and you have a recipe for disaster, trust me.
I know this subject is dry, but if you are like me, you know how scary it is to feel yourself slipping into sleep while you're driving a damn car. Hopefully, this entry helps someone stay awake on the road out there. For all our sakes.
Fortunately, I have never completely fallen asleep at the wheel and driven off a road, or gotten into a car crash. But there have been times too close for comfort. Falling asleep at red lights, or in bumper to bumper traffic is another problem. This is a common problem as I learned from some basic research. There is even an article on how to stay awake while driving.
 |
| Ugh, if I had a nickel...(source) |
This seems like a boring subject, I know. But it is something that many, many people face every day when driving to, or coming home from work. You know how it is! Whether it's a poor night sleep, lack of sleep, boredom, things make us tired, and sometimes we have no control over when. And falling asleep while driving doesn't always end well. There are consequences which should be obvious.
Sleepy drivers, as I found out, can be just as dangerous as drunk drivers. I found this article that laid it all out quite nicely. It's a real problem with real consequences. Like any problem, there are usually a whole host of ways to solve it.
As for me, I've learned tips and tricks here and there, and I even recognized a few from the article that helps me stay awake when I'm pushing through my morning commute. Drinking cold water helps, along with moving your body so that you can never get completely comfortable. Strong flavors work well too, especially ones that you don't like. I avoid energy drinks like the plague when driving- if the drink wears off while I'm behind the wheel, now I have double the amount of grogginess that I have to deal with.
 |
| Don't be this guy! (source) |
Your commute's time of day and work schedule can also screw you up so badly that you may develop Shift Work Sleep Disorder, or SWSD. I never even knew about it until I did some research. Evidently, people that suffer from this disorder either can't fall asleep, or fall asleep at inopportune times. Combine this with a commute that varies in time and involves a lot of steady driving, and you have a recipe for disaster, trust me.
I know this subject is dry, but if you are like me, you know how scary it is to feel yourself slipping into sleep while you're driving a damn car. Hopefully, this entry helps someone stay awake on the road out there. For all our sakes.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
There is no "Stop"
Business is an ongoing coagulation of success, and struggle. We formulate plans, execute them, record the results, and then base our future decisions on those results. Business is routine. Business is a cycle. It is not for those who give up easily. It is not for those who can't take criticism. It's tough.
But why is that such a discouragement?
Plenty of things in life are difficult. But every day people accomplish tasks, get past obstacles, and find their own path to their unique brand of success or happiness. Maybe happiness is your success. However it is measured, one thing is certain for everyone sooner or later. Anything worth having can only be truly attained and appreciated through hard work. Business is no different, and when things get difficult, people show their true colors in the workplace.
There are people around you that will give up when the going gets tough. They'll throw their hands up and just walk out. They don't care about the task, their responsibilities, or their jobs in general. You'll also get people that will muscle through the hard times, determined to beat the intangible wall that holds them back. And finally, you'll find those who are relentless. Relentless in carrying out their tasks, relentless in their determination. Those are often the people that can stand to be in business for themselves.
The way things are right now weed out anyone who is not willing to survive. Is it right? No. Is it fair? Hell no. But unfortunately, it is the cold and terrible truth. Those who survive in business now are special. They are relentless.
Why do I keep saying relentless? Isn't that a negative adjective? Sure! But just like being cunning, the meaning of the word "relentless" isn't all bad. The tenacity to continue even when nothing matters anymore, when there is nothing to go back to, when all your energy is gone and all you have is time and your own willpower, when all you have. Is something to prove only to yourself. That's what being relentless means in business. Combine this with cunning, and you'll turn yourself into a survivor.
There are times when I want to give up, sure. Work is hard. Especially if you're in business for yourself, so I can understand the need to escape, to just stop caring. Hell, no-one is expecting you to hold out forever. Even when there isn't anyone around to judge you, you are around. When the thought of giving up becomes repulsive, guess what? You've become relentless.
There is no stop in business. Stopping means failure. So if you want to succeed, you must reach within yourself. And I don't mean in a sappy after school special kinda way. No, you must reach inside yourself and bypass your ego, your ideas, you concepts, your notions, and find that one thing that won't let you give up, the irrefutable truth that gives you the power to move past all the negative in your life, driving you towards success. That is what it means to be relentless. When the only thing stopping you from moving forward, is you. When the only person you have to answer to is you. And when you're finally willing not to let yourself down? You're ready to be a business owner.
What are you made of?
But why is that such a discouragement?
Plenty of things in life are difficult. But every day people accomplish tasks, get past obstacles, and find their own path to their unique brand of success or happiness. Maybe happiness is your success. However it is measured, one thing is certain for everyone sooner or later. Anything worth having can only be truly attained and appreciated through hard work. Business is no different, and when things get difficult, people show their true colors in the workplace.
There are people around you that will give up when the going gets tough. They'll throw their hands up and just walk out. They don't care about the task, their responsibilities, or their jobs in general. You'll also get people that will muscle through the hard times, determined to beat the intangible wall that holds them back. And finally, you'll find those who are relentless. Relentless in carrying out their tasks, relentless in their determination. Those are often the people that can stand to be in business for themselves.
The way things are right now weed out anyone who is not willing to survive. Is it right? No. Is it fair? Hell no. But unfortunately, it is the cold and terrible truth. Those who survive in business now are special. They are relentless.
Why do I keep saying relentless? Isn't that a negative adjective? Sure! But just like being cunning, the meaning of the word "relentless" isn't all bad. The tenacity to continue even when nothing matters anymore, when there is nothing to go back to, when all your energy is gone and all you have is time and your own willpower, when all you have. Is something to prove only to yourself. That's what being relentless means in business. Combine this with cunning, and you'll turn yourself into a survivor.
There are times when I want to give up, sure. Work is hard. Especially if you're in business for yourself, so I can understand the need to escape, to just stop caring. Hell, no-one is expecting you to hold out forever. Even when there isn't anyone around to judge you, you are around. When the thought of giving up becomes repulsive, guess what? You've become relentless.
There is no stop in business. Stopping means failure. So if you want to succeed, you must reach within yourself. And I don't mean in a sappy after school special kinda way. No, you must reach inside yourself and bypass your ego, your ideas, you concepts, your notions, and find that one thing that won't let you give up, the irrefutable truth that gives you the power to move past all the negative in your life, driving you towards success. That is what it means to be relentless. When the only thing stopping you from moving forward, is you. When the only person you have to answer to is you. And when you're finally willing not to let yourself down? You're ready to be a business owner.
What are you made of?
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Being the Ultimate Critical Thinker in Business
Think outside the box is one of the most overused, and underrated phrases in the English language.
When you really come down to it, how does one suddenly...think differently? That's what "think outside the box" really means. Go against the grain, and find something unique in a totally different train of thought. Huh. Easier said than done, I'm afraid. But I don't think that the "box" is something that is shared between humanity. It's context sensitive, and I fear that's where people lose their way.
In business, being intelligent is no longer enough. Being vigilant, no longer enough. Opportunistic, no. Nowadays, if a business owner isn't cunning his or her establishment is in a world of hurt. Intelligence is easy enough to come by. But it must be combined with guile, resourcefulness, and sheer hunger to make it worth while.
There are whole websites devoted to improving intelligence and problem solving skills. And by all means, most are legitimate and genuinely want to help people all around the world better themselves. But sadly, these principles cannot be applied to problems in business without some tweaking.
One website I found seemed to really help because they kept their advice more as open guidelines, allowing for the reader to extrapolate and think. But there was one element missing here. This website even lists an entire process that can help business owners solve problems, but once again, it was lacking a single element.
Cunning.
Look at the definition. It has negative connotations associated with it, such as "deception." I've also heard treachery associated with the word, but if you click the link above and take a look at the second part of the definition, it says, "Executed with or exhibiting ingenuity." A-ha! That's what I'm talkin' about.
One must be cunning in business. By no means should you deceive or rob your customers or competitors, but you must be able to outwit competition, know how to handle and please each individual customer, and use all your resourcefulness and determination to succeed. Some of you may believe that the only way to succeed in business is to be deceptive, and to be a backstabber. Ruthless. Greedy. No.
That's where being cunning gets its bad rap. Ingenuity is the great equalizer among all creatures. One moment of inspiration can spark years of success- do you have any idea the kind of things you can accomplish if you set a lofty goal, and then use the power of your mind to reach it? And I'm not talking about the stupid "BELIEVE IN YOURSELF" stuff. I'm talking about using your brain to its fullest.
Don't expect a guide from me. Or a bulleted list with tips. This is something you must do on your own. There will be many times in business where all you have is an empty bank account, and your brain. When the chips are down, no website or resource center will have the know-how to pull you outta the sewer. Only you can do that. So if you have to rely on yourself that much, you better make damn sure you're the kinda person you'd trust.
Don't be smart. Be cunning.
When you really come down to it, how does one suddenly...think differently? That's what "think outside the box" really means. Go against the grain, and find something unique in a totally different train of thought. Huh. Easier said than done, I'm afraid. But I don't think that the "box" is something that is shared between humanity. It's context sensitive, and I fear that's where people lose their way.
In business, being intelligent is no longer enough. Being vigilant, no longer enough. Opportunistic, no. Nowadays, if a business owner isn't cunning his or her establishment is in a world of hurt. Intelligence is easy enough to come by. But it must be combined with guile, resourcefulness, and sheer hunger to make it worth while.
There are whole websites devoted to improving intelligence and problem solving skills. And by all means, most are legitimate and genuinely want to help people all around the world better themselves. But sadly, these principles cannot be applied to problems in business without some tweaking.
One website I found seemed to really help because they kept their advice more as open guidelines, allowing for the reader to extrapolate and think. But there was one element missing here. This website even lists an entire process that can help business owners solve problems, but once again, it was lacking a single element.
Cunning.
Look at the definition. It has negative connotations associated with it, such as "deception." I've also heard treachery associated with the word, but if you click the link above and take a look at the second part of the definition, it says, "Executed with or exhibiting ingenuity." A-ha! That's what I'm talkin' about.
One must be cunning in business. By no means should you deceive or rob your customers or competitors, but you must be able to outwit competition, know how to handle and please each individual customer, and use all your resourcefulness and determination to succeed. Some of you may believe that the only way to succeed in business is to be deceptive, and to be a backstabber. Ruthless. Greedy. No.
That's where being cunning gets its bad rap. Ingenuity is the great equalizer among all creatures. One moment of inspiration can spark years of success- do you have any idea the kind of things you can accomplish if you set a lofty goal, and then use the power of your mind to reach it? And I'm not talking about the stupid "BELIEVE IN YOURSELF" stuff. I'm talking about using your brain to its fullest.
Don't expect a guide from me. Or a bulleted list with tips. This is something you must do on your own. There will be many times in business where all you have is an empty bank account, and your brain. When the chips are down, no website or resource center will have the know-how to pull you outta the sewer. Only you can do that. So if you have to rely on yourself that much, you better make damn sure you're the kinda person you'd trust.
Don't be smart. Be cunning.
Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Happy Coexistence With your Job
Work is tough.
Many people all around the world do not like their jobs. Hell, I found a blogger that wrote an entry on how to deal with toxic occupations! Some tolerate, some enjoy, and everything in-between. Certain individuals may see work as a means to an end, like putting food on the table, or providing for a family. But here's a concept that I introduce to you:
What if we tried to live with our jobs, opposed to just going to them? Accepted work opposed to dread it? There is freedom in simply letting go, you know. Work is work and that is that, but what if we changed perspective a little bit, and saw our jobs in a new light?
That's what I'm trying to do. Now, I'm not unhappy at my job. No I am not. But there are times when work gets to me, as I am sure it all gets to you. And sometimes, I carry with me an anchor of dread when I have to return to work on Monday after a nice weekend. But is this the right thing to do? Better yet, healthy thing to do? I don't think so.
A different perspective on work can change many things. Sometimes, it reveals that there are aspects of your job that you enjoy that you didn't even know about! And in the other extreme, sometimes a different perspective can let you see that it's time to move on. There are all parts of simply accepting that work is work, and we must do it to survive.
Many people think that they have no choice but to stay at a job that they despise. This isn't true. They've accepted the "fact" that they can't do anything else but sit there and be miserable. There are even coping mechanisms that can be used to help deal with a job that someone may hate. But is this true coexistence? Or is it just a band-aid?
Job dissatisfaction is very common among Americans. And some choose to cope with the stress of bad professional situations in a variety of ways, not all of them healthy. So what would you rather do? Cope, or accept?
Acceptance is a strange thing, you know. Typically, it has a positive connotation, implying that one is content with one's situation, and is ready to rest of their laurels. But this isn't always the case. We accept many things all the time! Like...being in traffic, or being sick, or getting a parking ticket. We accept that these things have happened, and then we decide how we want to deal with them. So...don't cope. Accept!
I hate it when people say, "I don't have a choice," or when they say it to me: "you don't have a choice." This is completely untrue. We have free reign to do whatever we want, whenever we want. The only thing that holds us back is how a situation will turn out for us. You can hate your job. You can hate it with all your heart, and you can believe that you have no alternatives. But is that really true? I don't think it is.
You are a human (hopefully). You have a mind, you have a heart (gag me) and you have the will to focus everything you have into anything you want. So with all that power at your disposal...
Are you really gonna just sit there and be unhappy?
Many people all around the world do not like their jobs. Hell, I found a blogger that wrote an entry on how to deal with toxic occupations! Some tolerate, some enjoy, and everything in-between. Certain individuals may see work as a means to an end, like putting food on the table, or providing for a family. But here's a concept that I introduce to you:
What if we tried to live with our jobs, opposed to just going to them? Accepted work opposed to dread it? There is freedom in simply letting go, you know. Work is work and that is that, but what if we changed perspective a little bit, and saw our jobs in a new light?
 |
| Hate is an Ugly Thing (Source) |
That's what I'm trying to do. Now, I'm not unhappy at my job. No I am not. But there are times when work gets to me, as I am sure it all gets to you. And sometimes, I carry with me an anchor of dread when I have to return to work on Monday after a nice weekend. But is this the right thing to do? Better yet, healthy thing to do? I don't think so.
Acceptance comes in many shades.
 |
| We could all stand to be a little more Zen. (Source) |
Many people think that they have no choice but to stay at a job that they despise. This isn't true. They've accepted the "fact" that they can't do anything else but sit there and be miserable. There are even coping mechanisms that can be used to help deal with a job that someone may hate. But is this true coexistence? Or is it just a band-aid?
Job dissatisfaction is very common among Americans. And some choose to cope with the stress of bad professional situations in a variety of ways, not all of them healthy. So what would you rather do? Cope, or accept?
 |
| Above: Never the Answer to a Problem (Source) |
Acceptance is a strange thing, you know. Typically, it has a positive connotation, implying that one is content with one's situation, and is ready to rest of their laurels. But this isn't always the case. We accept many things all the time! Like...being in traffic, or being sick, or getting a parking ticket. We accept that these things have happened, and then we decide how we want to deal with them. So...don't cope. Accept!
I hate it when people say, "I don't have a choice," or when they say it to me: "you don't have a choice." This is completely untrue. We have free reign to do whatever we want, whenever we want. The only thing that holds us back is how a situation will turn out for us. You can hate your job. You can hate it with all your heart, and you can believe that you have no alternatives. But is that really true? I don't think it is.
 |
| You ALWAYS Have a Choice (Source) |
You are a human (hopefully). You have a mind, you have a heart (gag me) and you have the will to focus everything you have into anything you want. So with all that power at your disposal...
Are you really gonna just sit there and be unhappy?
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Praise in the Workplace- Yes It's Important
Morale is the intangible asset that makes a business flow smoothly. Of course, money, resources, equipment and the like are all important too, but take a second to consider this. What is a company without its people? And I mean everyone, from the hourly worker in the trenches to the President/CEO in the branch office 1000 miles away. Sure, you can have employees, and sure they'll work for you. But how much will they want to work for you? How much will they take before they just give up?
Praise, attention, a simple thank you, good job, etc are absolutely invaluable to worker performance. I know because when I'm praised for doing a job well done, or being there when no-one else could be, I want to work harder! I want to get better, work harder, and really give it my all. Think this is all a load of new-age, touchy-feely, progressive crap? Read on.
 |
| Don't be that guy. Source |
 | |||
| Feeling...unappreciated? Source |
| For those of you that just want the cold, hard facts, here ya go: THE FACTS. It's dry, but informative. I found myself getting bored, so I looked at another link instead. This one was more cut to the chase- it outlines the feelings and desires of an average employee, and basically tells you (the reader) what you may be doing to ruin their productivity and destroy morale all around the office. No matter what, overall employee morale comes down to management. Of course, there are some employees that don't want to do anything, or will simply have a bad attitude no matter what. But these people are the exceptions, opposed to the standard. On the other hand, too much praise can be bad as well. In another article I found, praising employees too much can cause a number of adverse outcomes that hurt the productivity of the worker, and the company. According to the article, too much praise can inflate egos rather than encourage independence and confidence. The praise can also become empty and meaningless, more annoying than encouraging I would suspect.
Giving praise is something that should come naturally, I think, and isn't a scripted event, or a policy in some in the tome that is an employee handbook. I found this article too, addressing some of the common myths, or misconceptions about praise. Evidently, some people just don't know how to tell others that they're doing a good job. And that's okay. Not everyone is demonstrative, but having that in mind, I want to discuss my final point. Motivation is personal. A person cannot be motivated to do something well. They can be forced, intimidated, asked, but motivation is something that comes from within. Real, honest to goodness praise strengthens, and inspires motivation. Period.
So if you deem yourself not as the touchy feely type, that's fine! Sometimes, all employees (including myself) are looking for is a "thank you" when a report get done early, or a "good job!" when they've really worked hard and tried to make their work mean something. You don't have to give them a hug or read em' a poem, you know. A simple thank you usually does the trick. |
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Adult Naptime and Disposition
Coming to grips that I still need nap time as an adult is more difficult than I anticipated. Let me paint a picture, and then I'll tie it all together like I usually do. Several weeks ago, I was enjoying the weekend with my wife. I was off from work, and things were good. Suddenly, my mood became dark and I was extremely irritable. I became depressed, angry, and stoic. We were out and about in town, so all I wanted to do was go home and hide.
When we finally got home, I decided that I was fed up with feeling this way, and I didn't want my wife to deal with my stupidity either. Seeing no other options at the time, I went into my bedroom and tried to go to sleep. It was then I realized I was exhausted. I could barely keep my eyes open.
Once awakening FOUR hours later, I felt completely changed, and ready to face the world again. I fight fatigue all week long, and it's not because my job is boring. It's something we all have to face and fight. But, when I start fighting fatigue during periods of time when I can rest, I start to have problems. And I'm not the only one. Check out this blogger. He says the same thing I do, and I'm sure I'll not be hard pressed to find more like him and I.
And then there's the concept of a siesta. Italy has one (source): "A siesta can be taken anytime during the day but typically it is when the sun is at it's hottest so anytime between 12 and 2pm and often after lunch." There's even an entire Wikipedia article based on it and the importance of naps! Artists have created paintings of them too:
So, what happened? Other countries have siestas. Not all (which includes us) but some. There is no denying that sleep is important. So why do we ignore dream time? In fact, we even chastise those who are using their time for sleep, even a short ten minute break from consciousness. This woman describes a story about how her husband does not approve of her napping habits. She, at one time, even tried to stop her "habit" of napping, but wound up having to do it in secret. In her own home!
The working world is a world obsessed with time and productivity, even if such "values" diminish our ability to effectively deal and utilize both metaphorical resources. Would it be a crime to allow a twenty minute, non-paid optional nap break? Also, would it be wrong if workers chose to use lunchtime, or time before and after shifts to sleep?
As far as the working world is concerned, yes. Not only is it wrong, it's a heinous crime. Why? In all honesty, the world is simply going to get faster and more complex. People will have to do twice as much with the twenty four hours we are allotted each day, and eventually we will all wear ourselves out.
What do you think? Do you think I'm right, or I'm just cranky and need a nap?
When we finally got home, I decided that I was fed up with feeling this way, and I didn't want my wife to deal with my stupidity either. Seeing no other options at the time, I went into my bedroom and tried to go to sleep. It was then I realized I was exhausted. I could barely keep my eyes open.
Once awakening FOUR hours later, I felt completely changed, and ready to face the world again. I fight fatigue all week long, and it's not because my job is boring. It's something we all have to face and fight. But, when I start fighting fatigue during periods of time when I can rest, I start to have problems. And I'm not the only one. Check out this blogger. He says the same thing I do, and I'm sure I'll not be hard pressed to find more like him and I.
And then there's the concept of a siesta. Italy has one (source): "A siesta can be taken anytime during the day but typically it is when the sun is at it's hottest so anytime between 12 and 2pm and often after lunch." There's even an entire Wikipedia article based on it and the importance of naps! Artists have created paintings of them too:
 | |||||||||||||||||
| Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Die_H%C3%A4ngematte.jpg |
 |
| Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:La_migdiada.jpg |
So, what happened? Other countries have siestas. Not all (which includes us) but some. There is no denying that sleep is important. So why do we ignore dream time? In fact, we even chastise those who are using their time for sleep, even a short ten minute break from consciousness. This woman describes a story about how her husband does not approve of her napping habits. She, at one time, even tried to stop her "habit" of napping, but wound up having to do it in secret. In her own home!
The working world is a world obsessed with time and productivity, even if such "values" diminish our ability to effectively deal and utilize both metaphorical resources. Would it be a crime to allow a twenty minute, non-paid optional nap break? Also, would it be wrong if workers chose to use lunchtime, or time before and after shifts to sleep?
As far as the working world is concerned, yes. Not only is it wrong, it's a heinous crime. Why? In all honesty, the world is simply going to get faster and more complex. People will have to do twice as much with the twenty four hours we are allotted each day, and eventually we will all wear ourselves out.
What do you think? Do you think I'm right, or I'm just cranky and need a nap?
Monday, January 28, 2013
Work-Related Stress and Substances
Is it possible to function in the adult world without the aid of a legal/illegal substance?
I say no, it's not. And I'm not just talking about alcohol, pot, coke, etc. I'm talking about any substance that enters the human body and has an effect on it and is a drug. Let's take an easy one first. Alcohol. Prolific, used and abused by millions. Many consume alcohol to lower stress levels. Work, in case you didn't know, is typically a massive source of chronic stress, which helps develop bad habits. I didn't just pull that out m'butt.
Look at this excerpt from an article I found: "Research and population surveys have shown that persons under stress , particularly chronic stress, tend to exhibit more unhealthy behaviors than less-stressed persons. Stressed people drink more alcohol, smoke more, and eat less nutritious foods than non-stressed individuals." (Source)
And here's another one focusing on addiction and stress: "Stress has long been known to increase vulnerability to addiction. The last decade has led to a dramatic increase in understanding the underlying mechanisms for this association." (Source)
That's a pretty easy correlation. But, not everyone drinks! I know this, you know this. What about other recreational drugs? I have found after doing some research that a substance can be addictive, true, but it is the introduction of chronic stress that wears down our willpower, making people more vulnerable to self-medication and addiction. Taken from this peer-reviewed journal, the facts don't lie: "High emotional stress is associated with loss of control over impulses and an inability to inhibit inappropriate behaviors and to delay gratification."
Drugs, alcohol. Smoking, too. Many believe that smoking cigarettes, pipes, cigars, etc. has a relaxing effect, and can help calm nerves when under a lot of stress. Although, it is unclear why people only think they relax when they smoke. I found, thanks to this article, that the feeling of relaxation is only perceived. Cigarettes actually have the opposite effect: "Studies have found, however, that in reality, lighting up has the opposite effect, causing long-term stress levels to rise, not fall. For those dependent on smoking, the only stress it relieves is the withdrawal between cigarettes."
Prescription drugs, too. Let's say you're a straight shooter. You don't smoke, you don't drink. No drugs, except for what your doctor prescribes you. But I bet stress has worn you down. In fact, in the United States, there has been a significant jump in the number of people who have been taking cholesterol controlling drugs: "From 1988 to 1994, 3.4% of adults took a statin (drug that helps control cholesterol). This percentage jumped to 15.5% in 2007-2010." (Source) Why focus on cholestrol and stress? High stress levels, especially when chronic, builds up cortisol in your system, a hormone released when the body is stressed. A constant flow of cortisol in your body makes your body produce more cholesterol, same with adrenaline, which also is released during stress events, and also stimulates the production of cholesterol.
There's a direct link, look at the facts: "These two hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) produced by the hypothalamus also trigger the production of cholesterol. Cortisol produces more sugar in order to provide the body with instant energy to tackle the stressful situation. The high sugar levels, however, often are not used up by the body and eventually are converted to fatty acids and cholesterol. Stress also can push people toward unhealthy eating habits and lifestyles: smoking, drinking and eating a diet that contributes to high cholesterol." (Source)
Stress requires us to medicate ourselves to stay well (cholsterol medications, high blood pressure medications, tranquilizers, etc) or to relieve, or more accurately, forget stress (recreational drugs and alcohol). But in reality, we are only making the problem worse. We work too much. Once again, we work. TOO. MUCH. All over the damn globe, and especially America, we are working ourselves to death. We've even developed methods to further that end to deal with the side-effects of working too hard! See the madness?
Enough talk. It is impossible to exist in the adult, working world without the sustained usage of prescription, or recreational drugs, including alcohol. That is my stand. What's yours?
I say no, it's not. And I'm not just talking about alcohol, pot, coke, etc. I'm talking about any substance that enters the human body and has an effect on it and is a drug. Let's take an easy one first. Alcohol. Prolific, used and abused by millions. Many consume alcohol to lower stress levels. Work, in case you didn't know, is typically a massive source of chronic stress, which helps develop bad habits. I didn't just pull that out m'butt.
Look at this excerpt from an article I found: "Research and population surveys have shown that persons under stress , particularly chronic stress, tend to exhibit more unhealthy behaviors than less-stressed persons. Stressed people drink more alcohol, smoke more, and eat less nutritious foods than non-stressed individuals." (Source)
And here's another one focusing on addiction and stress: "Stress has long been known to increase vulnerability to addiction. The last decade has led to a dramatic increase in understanding the underlying mechanisms for this association." (Source)
That's a pretty easy correlation. But, not everyone drinks! I know this, you know this. What about other recreational drugs? I have found after doing some research that a substance can be addictive, true, but it is the introduction of chronic stress that wears down our willpower, making people more vulnerable to self-medication and addiction. Taken from this peer-reviewed journal, the facts don't lie: "High emotional stress is associated with loss of control over impulses and an inability to inhibit inappropriate behaviors and to delay gratification."
Drugs, alcohol. Smoking, too. Many believe that smoking cigarettes, pipes, cigars, etc. has a relaxing effect, and can help calm nerves when under a lot of stress. Although, it is unclear why people only think they relax when they smoke. I found, thanks to this article, that the feeling of relaxation is only perceived. Cigarettes actually have the opposite effect: "Studies have found, however, that in reality, lighting up has the opposite effect, causing long-term stress levels to rise, not fall. For those dependent on smoking, the only stress it relieves is the withdrawal between cigarettes."
Prescription drugs, too. Let's say you're a straight shooter. You don't smoke, you don't drink. No drugs, except for what your doctor prescribes you. But I bet stress has worn you down. In fact, in the United States, there has been a significant jump in the number of people who have been taking cholesterol controlling drugs: "From 1988 to 1994, 3.4% of adults took a statin (drug that helps control cholesterol). This percentage jumped to 15.5% in 2007-2010." (Source) Why focus on cholestrol and stress? High stress levels, especially when chronic, builds up cortisol in your system, a hormone released when the body is stressed. A constant flow of cortisol in your body makes your body produce more cholesterol, same with adrenaline, which also is released during stress events, and also stimulates the production of cholesterol.
There's a direct link, look at the facts: "These two hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) produced by the hypothalamus also trigger the production of cholesterol. Cortisol produces more sugar in order to provide the body with instant energy to tackle the stressful situation. The high sugar levels, however, often are not used up by the body and eventually are converted to fatty acids and cholesterol. Stress also can push people toward unhealthy eating habits and lifestyles: smoking, drinking and eating a diet that contributes to high cholesterol." (Source)
Stress requires us to medicate ourselves to stay well (cholsterol medications, high blood pressure medications, tranquilizers, etc) or to relieve, or more accurately, forget stress (recreational drugs and alcohol). But in reality, we are only making the problem worse. We work too much. Once again, we work. TOO. MUCH. All over the damn globe, and especially America, we are working ourselves to death. We've even developed methods to further that end to deal with the side-effects of working too hard! See the madness?
Enough talk. It is impossible to exist in the adult, working world without the sustained usage of prescription, or recreational drugs, including alcohol. That is my stand. What's yours?
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