VALUE

What do you value, what is your time worth, who shares those values in the form of Co-workers, Customers, and Joint Venture Partners?

 There is a story told, of a General in ancient times. He was living in a peaceful time, but received word that the enemy was massing troops in the borderlands. He wished for his people to experience as little pain and suffering, as possible. He even wished for his enemy to suffer as little as possible. In his wisdom he wrote down what he valued, on an animal skin. He raised those values as a military standard. Do you know what a military standard is? It is rallying point and a measurement tool. In the heat of the battle, forward direction can be difficult to determine. So, an occasional scan to see the standard is advised. If you are moving further from the standard, it indicates success in the battle. If you are being moved closer to the standard, fight harder, because it means that the enemy is advancing. If you can't see the standard, run, because if the standard has fallen it means that the enemy has overrun your position.

In wisdom, the General raised a standard that clearly communicated his values. Why? By doing so, he knew that he would attract those who valued what he valued, and discourage those who did not share his values from joining him. Why was that wise? Some might suggest that any and all would aid the cause. The General knew that those who shared his values probably shared his experience - eliminating the need to begin training from the most fundamental levels. He also knew that those who valued what he valued, would not not need to be convinced in a specific course of action. A divided army that argues amongst itself is the fastest way to failure. Look up "The Fifth Column." He knew that would avoid discord and wasting time in getting organized. When the troops are aligned, the likelihood of success increases. Indeed, the war was short, and in some cases, death amongst his troops was avoided.

When you can clearly communicate what you value, you will attract employees, vendors, trading partners, and customers who value what you value. Obviously, you value your time (I hope you do). When you attract employees who value time, you attract engaged employees who will make a conscientious effort to deliver a worthy effort. When you attract Vendors and Trading Partners who value your time, you attract companies and individuals who will work to   
provide what you need, on time and to specifications. When you attract customers who value your time, you avoid those who would pay you less than you deserve. You avoid those who would avoid paying you on time. Is this making sense? Frankly, correctly valuing your time (it is not more important than anyone else's time) helps you to personally avoid engaging in less valuable activities.

My challenge to you is to clearly identify 11 principles that you hold dear. Examples could include such values as Integrity, Service, Gratitude, Profitability, Growth, Family, and such. To that list I would ask you to add the principle of Vision (more on that in another post). If you cannot come up with 11 principles that you value, then add Activities that you value, until you come up with a list of 11 principles and activities that you value. If your list is still short of 11, add Material Possessions that you value. Now you're ready to raise your standard, and ready to attract those who value what you value. You will find yourself enjoying your work environment more.

This list of 12 (your 11 plus Vision) will become your "Must Do's." In the next post we'll consider the concept of "Must Do's," a core component of the Just Give Me 5 Minutes way. Until then, enjoy getting clear.

Coach Frits