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Expectations vs. Requirements

Expectations are things that stay right inside my head and are never verbally communicated.

When my expectations are not met, I am upset and disappointed, and I spend a lot of time talking about what “should ” have been done.

Requirements are clear, crystal clear.  I may not appreciate or even agree with the given requirement, I don’t have to.  I have a clear undrestanding of what has to get done, and all the details to do it properly.

Make the shift from unspoken expectations, and set yourself and others up for success with highly defined requirements.

The Boss is Good

The boss is good.  As a matter of fact, the boss is very good.  When the employee has a list a mile long (and growing) with all the things the boss is doing wrong, doesn’t understand, and needs to  change, something is terribly out of place.

The simple straightforward understanding of the boss-employee relationship is that the boss is in charge and the employee follows orders.  The boss is doing a great job being a boss, considering his talents, abilities, virtues and shortcomings.  When the employee demands a change, he could only demand a change of himself.

Learn the language and style of your boss.  Obtain greater understanding of your job description and requirements.  Replace your list of demands with a list of how you  will better adapt to being the employee your boss wants to retain and promote.

The boss is good.  Are you in the right place?

Permission To Offend

Have you ever been told “no offense, but…”?

We all know what comes next.  By prefacing with the “no offense, but,” I have just gained permission to say whatever obnoxious offensive thing I want.

Having been on the receiving end too many times, I’d much rather hear, “I have no regard for you or your feelings and I’m going to be rude and offend you.”

Don’t take me wrong, I have no interest in being offended.  If you’re going to be insensitive and offend me, don’t sugarcoat it.

Decisions

In a society where throughout the growing up process decisions are made by adults, the thought of making a decision alone is a daunting one.

Turning to others for guidance and advice is beneficial, yet when push comes to shove, there are no past decision-making experiences to fall back on.

Basing a decision on the actions of others, or letting others call the shots, gives the comfort of  “having whom to blame” when things don’t turn out as desired.

Perhaps the largest deterrent in the decision making process is the knowledge that no one else can be credited or held accountable for the outcome.

It takes strength to make a decision. Be courageous and make a powerful decision.  One you are ready to stand by.

Problem or Challenge

Problems are just that, problems.

It is easy to get caught up in a problem. Problems are a great way to justify my lack of productivity.

Challenges are springboards.

Life may not be a smooth road. The bumps notwithstanding, moving forward will get me to my destination faster and stronger.

Strengths vs. Accuracy

When I talk of my weaknesses and character flaws, I degrade myself in the name of “speaking the accurate truth.”

When I’m asked what my strengths are, I struggle to clearly state my talents and gifts in the name of “humility.”

Perhaps switching the two is a good idea.

Thought is powerful

I can travel back in time, revisit occurrences and memories from decades ago, without leaving home or the need a time machine.  In my thought this journey can happen.

I am now all the more experienced and have grown through my everyday living.

Over time, I have matured, gained wisdom, and have experienced life.

Looking back and reliving memories of precious moments, I am in a better position to understand the power contained in the original experience and I am empowered to translate it into action.

(Based on Likutei Dibburim, Pesach 5794)

It’s All About Me!

Of course it is. If it weren’t, I would not be here.

My mission was given to me. My potential is for me to live up to and surpass. My challenges will lead me to greater places.

It is too easy and hence pointless to measure my life and accomplishments based on those of the people around me.

The One who put me here, sent me with all the success tools needed to get my job done and in the most grandiose manner.

I need to be the best me!

Appreciating the Bark

There’s an old country Yiddish saying, “When the dogs bark, we know the Poretz (nobleman) is traveling.”

Challenges to the status quo, novel ideas and great accomplishments are accompanied by naysayers.  Understand that the bark is confirming you are on to something big.

Voice of Doubt

It will make itself heard, just as you are about to do something great!

And again, shortly thereafter.

Recognize it for what it is.  When others voice their doubt and dampen my excitement, I can move out of earshot.

When the voice of doubt is my own, I need to replace it quickly and powerfully with a voice of greater focus and determination.