Good at Apologizing
When a mistake happens, as it can and will in a world filled with humans, we are taught that the right thing to do is apologize. A prompt, heartfelt apology is appropriate, along with corrective action wherever possible. However, what does it mean if “We’re really good at apologizing” as an experienced leader questioned in […]
Winning Recipe
What is it that makes one meal preparation taste better than another? Similarly, what is it that makes one business thrive when another struggles or fails? Could the answer be in the winning recipe? Are there unique ingredients that the successful chef or business leader uses, which others don’t know? It’s certainly possible, but much […]
“Meaningful Adjacencies”
Just after sunrise on a hot, humid July morning, I gathered with nearly 500 landscape professionals at Arlington National Cemetery for our annual green industry day of service, known as “Renewal & Remembrance”. That place always humbles me and inspires deep reflection unlike any other place I have ever visited. Mere words don’t do the […]
That’s not my…
…Guy. …Crew. …Problem. …Job. That’s got to stop right now! So spoke Ignacio, with great conviction, on an all-hands safety teleconference yesterday. To the list, he added: There’s not money for that. That’s got to stop right now! Thank you, Ignacio, for saying what needed to be said in a public forum. While others may have […]
Plain Indifference
Last week in this space I discussed the idea that to perform consistently at a high level requires an ability and willingness to take a “Fresh Look” at the situation. That trait is the opposite of plain indifference, which is an eloquent way of referring to what’s commonly called a “Don’t care attitude.” When I […]
Gratitude
Gratitude is the Number One Ingredient in Happiness. If you’re not grateful, it’s impossible to be happy. Finding pleasure in small things makes all the difference, because the effect is cumulative. It’s easy to take day-to-day experiences for granted, but doing so is to miss out on the greatest opportunities for appreciation. A smile, a […]
Why Do It?
You’ll never know what happens if you don’t. The potential gain clearly outweighs the pain. The status quo is not working out. If you want the future to look different from the past, something needs to change. Others are counting on you. You are counting on yourself. It’s the right thing to do. No one […]
Why is it you say that…?
Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve, be or acquire what you want. The determining force behind that decision is you! The real question is deciding whether you’re willing to do what it takes. My youngest son made a sport out of asking: “Why is it you say that…..?” regarding just about Everything! […]
By the People…
A student of history should recall these important lines from Lincoln’s 1863 Gettysburg address: “It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us — that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion — that […]
Who do you look up to?
We all need that one person in our life, someone we truly look up to. I’ll bet a name and face have already leaped into your mind as you read this message. At least I hope so. If you’re especially fortunate to have more than one role model for your life, I suspect that one […]