There seems to be a void when it comes to finding good help. Perhaps it is the lack of training or the absence of personal responsibility. At any rate, what can we do about it? How can we work on ourselves and inspire others?
Setting goals, holding ourselves accountable, and keeping our word are a few foundational places to start. We can go with the flow and just let life happen or we can choose to step up and intentionally work to improve ourselves.
Run of the mill people don’t set higher bars. They don’t typically inspire the average person. But remarkable people do. Those who give their best, have a great attitude, and view life’s curve-balls as opportunities are who inspire. And that’s who I want to be – exceptional, an incredible representation of God.
Where to Begin
I’ve often said it: you have to start somewhere. And when it’s all said and done, as long as you know your destination, there’s really no wrong place to begin. Consider a specific area or two that you really want to work on. Perhaps it is being tidy or punctual. Both of these are very important and yet easy to let slide. But we must hold ourselves to a higher standard – even if, and I might just say especially if, those around you don’t require it.
Life isn’t about what you can get away with but rather about being your best in every area. And that is how you become an exceptional worker, by setting and holding a higher standard!
I have heard it said that character is who you are and what you do when no one is watching. This reminder helps me keep focused and on track. (and I’ll be honest, as much as I try, I don’t stay on track all the time – I wish I did! But I am as human as they come and can get distracted and forget who I want to be, just like everyone else! But the important thing is to get right back on track and keep going! As the saying goes, it doesn’t matter how many times you fall. What matters is how many times you get back up!)
Accountability
Now that you have determined a goal to aim towards, you must hold yourself accountable. I’m not saying rake yourself over the coals if you fail, but it might help you to have a certain code to determine how you are doing.
Make yourself mini goals, achievable yet something that requires something of you. For instance, if your goal is to be more tidy, require yourself to leave your areas neat. Nothing on the floors, counters and surfaces tidy, clothes neatly in the drawers, bed made, etc. Make this a new habit and once you have established it, celebrate! Perhaps you want to get a new kitchen gadget, fresh towels for your bathroom, or a painting you’ve been admiring.
We must hold ourselves accountable for how we spend our time and our resources. And until we do well with that on a personal level, we will not be able to help others exceptionally well!
Integrity
Integrity is essentially doing what you say you will do. Or to put it another way: incorruptibility. Wow, huh?! Definitely an excellent goal if you want to be an exceptional worker!
Integrity seems to be something of which people might talk, just not necessarily practice. One can talk all day long, but without action or follow through the words are hollow and meaningless. With this knowledge in hand, it makes it even more important for us to walk the walk, to be and give our best.
Follow Through
This is only the beginning. To be an exceptional worker, you must be willing to get up each day determined to be your best. Whether you are self-employed or work for a company these practices will lead you down an incredible path!
Being an exceptional worker will be a blessing to those around you as well as to yourself!
“Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure – pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return.” – Luke 6:38
Until Next Time!
Hope.
PS. I hope these words have given you fresh resolve to hold a higher standard and be a better version of yourself! What are your goals? Where are key areas you are working? Feel free to share below or send me an email at hope@theamericanlady.com.