day 563: Year-End Examination (Redux)

Originally published December 31, 2008

Year-end Examination
At the end of the year we are usually scrambling to get everything on our to do lists out of the way and cleaned and tidied up for a fresh start in the New Year. I also notice that at the end of the year there is a mad dash to use up all of the health reserve money that has been saved up tax-free throughout the year. I always thought that it must be interesting for doctors who get this year-end set of appointments for examinations, whether people need them or not. The end of the year is when most of us do the self-examinations of ourselves. We reflect back over the past year and evaluate how we did in life, work, spiritually, financially, etc. and we then set our goals for the New Year, some being called our "New Year's Resolutions". This self-examination is good. Paul calls for us to do this continually in I Corinthians 11:28. David Wilkerson, the author of The Cross and the Switchblade and now pastor of the Times Square Church in New York City says, "Paul further urges us, 'Let a man examine himself…'. The Greek word for examine here means 'scrutinize, test.' The apostle is saying, 'Test yourself—see if you’re walking according to God’s Word.' We’re to constantly ask ourselves, 'Am I changing? Am I becoming more loving and tenderhearted? Am I treating my family and friends with godly respect? Is my conversation becoming more righteous?” These are great questions of self-examination as we head into our new year of work life. As we set our goals for the person we want to be at work and to be a person who works to their purpose, we can be assured that our constant self-examination and adjustments and corrections are the way that God wants us to live and pursue His righteousness. So, set those goals this year with confidence and great expectations that this New Year will be a year of positive change for each of us.


Reference; I Corinthians 11:28 (New Living Testament)

day 529: What Do You Love? (Redux)

Original Post: Tuesday, December 30, 2008

day 61: What Do You Love?
I sometimes amuse myself by thinking about the words we use at work that we don't really mean or words we use but would never really talk about what they mean, not at work we wouldn't that is. The greatest example of this is the word "love". We all the time will say, "I love doing...", or "I would love to take that project on", or "I'd love to get together and go over that with you", or we ask in an interview, "what do you really love to do?". But if we ever stopped to define what those loves mean or really talk about what love is and what we truly love or not, we would likely pull up short and think better about talking about this at work. Love is not a usual work topic. This is the usual time of the year when many of us take inventory of the past year and begin to set goals and objectives for the coming year. This can coincide with business planning so it seems natural to set our own professional goals and might as well set our own personal goals while we are at it. Most of us start those lists with what we want to get done throughout the year and those goals may cross the areas of physical, spiritual, relational, financial and vocation. There are always many things that we want to accomplish and achieve within the next 12 months. Not often though do we sit down and take the time to catalogue what it is that we love and how we are aligning our time, efforts, and resources against that list. Maybe this year would be a good year to think differently (thank you for that tag line Apple). If we were to start with what it is that we truly love and then build our personal and professional goals from there, then the list might be different this year and it might even be eye-opening or life-changing. We are told in I John 2:15 that we are to "stop loving the evil world and all that it offers you, for when you love the world, you show you do not have the love of the Father in you". What does this mean for us as believers who are trying to bring purpose to our work and lives? What this means is that we are to take a hard look at ourselves and determine what it is that we are truly putting our love towards and if it is towards worldly ways that undermine who it is that we can ultimately be for Christ, that we need to re-prioritize and do so quickly. This is relevant in our work and the examples we are in the workplace. If we are chasing that next promotion and raise and doing so at all costs to ourselves, our families and our co-workers, it is a pretty good bet that money and power would be high up, if not on the top of, our "I love..." list. These are hard things to reconcile but God calls us to be constantly checking ourselves and making adjustments. To be the person He wants us to be at work would not to be known as the person who is blindly chasing money, power, or even the next job. The right life example would be one where others could see that there is a larger context and purpose that we chase and fix our eyes upon and how we work is influenced by that choice. As we look to a new year, now would be the best of times to take a love inventory before we set our next year's goals and objectives.

Reference: I John 2:15 (New Living Testament)

day 561: What Did You Get For Christmas?

It's the first day back to work after Christmas (unless the week was taken off as a holiday or the company shuts down for the week) and it's comparison day. This is the day when everyone wants to know what others got for Christmas not only so they will know, but also to give themselves a chance to tell others what they received. It's a fun day and what we will hear of lots of presents. I would predict that there will be plenty of pieces of technology that get mentioned this year. If the Apple store last week was any indication there were many iPads that found themselves under the Christmas tree along with other fun technology devices. And, with each of these new tech toys comes more time to fiddle with them, learn them and then make them a part of our everyday routines. With each new piece of technology we acquire we give a little more of ourselves to it and it to us. I read Kevin Kelly's new book this year, "What Technology Wants" (an excellent read). He goes deep into this phenomena and provides his own set of thoughts, cautions and ideas on how best to utilize and capitalize on the new things in our life that become a part of us and us them in short order. In general, there is nothing wrong with this and technology propels (or pulls) us forward. However, if we found ourselves consumed and obsessed (by anything) then we need to reevaluate and be sure that we have our priorities in the right place. That iPad is awesome and the next time we get on a plane we now have a movie ready to go. But, at the expense of the conversation we can have with our spouse or kids? It's just a watchout, just as Paul tells us about anything of the world that we let go too far: "Those in frequent contact with the things of the world should make good use of them without becoming attached to them, for this world and all of its contains will pass away." It's something to think about when we start using this year's Christmas presents.

Reference: 1 Corinthians 7:31 (New Living Testament)

day 560: For Unto Us....

For many of us it's the last day of work before the long Christmas weekend. Either today will be full and back-to-back trying to get as much done as we can, or it will be knocking off sometime early in the afternoon to get a jump on the holiday break. It's the time that for unto us we are given much. There is nothing more precious and sacred than what we are given than to be able to worship and bring glory to our Savior. This past weekend in our church, our Pastor shared with us this from Fulton Oursler. There is not a more appropriate message to complete this day and start the time of celebration of the birth of Jesus.

"With much help and counsel I have told here the greatest story once more - the story of the greatest event in human history. For once upon a time and long ago it actually happened, according to the faith of true believers, among which the author counts himself. God, who had fashioned time and space in a clockwork of billions of suns and stars and moons, in the form of His beloved Son became a human being like ourselves. On this microscopic midge of a planet He remained for thirty-three years. He was born in a stable and lived as a workingman and died on a cross. He came to show us how to live, not only for a few years but eternally. He explained truths that would make our souls joyous and free. This is the story of Jesus - the greatest story ever told."

Merry Christmas to you!

day 559: Immanuel (Updated)

Originally Posted Tuesday, December 22, 2009 - updated for today...


As we march into the closing days of 2010, many of us are taking some time, before 2011 shows up, to look back over our shoulders and assess the year. Again, it has not been an easy year for anyone in the work world. Much has changed and we've had to change with it. If there was a couple of years that have tested so many people in the workplace, it was long before most of were working or alive. Those that remember the Great Depression are the only ones who have seen this much sweeping change and uncertainty within such a short time frame. When there is this much turmoil, we are all affected and that impact shows up in us. I reflect on the people I know who along with their job struggles have had troubles also show up at home in their families, marriages and personal lives. Work is hard enough without the extra emotional charge of not knowing what tomorrow will bring. Many of us are winding it up this week and will try and take some vacation between the holidays and with that comes the extra stress of being away and trying to keep up. This is also something to be managed for if we aren't cognizant of this extra amount of pressure it can really start the holiday break off on the wrong foot. It's kind of like the movie "Home Alone" when the family is so caught up in the rush and the stress of the moment that they forget who they have left behind. It makes a classic movie, but it doesn't make good life story. In these challenging times, we can be just like that family who left Kevin at home sleeping, except in all of the rush, stress, pressures and worry, we tend to leave instead, God behind and then when we feel too far away with no way of turning back, we scream out, "Where are you God?", when it was us, not Him, who left Him home in the first place. This is the week when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, who took on another important name for all us to remember; "...and they will call him Immanuel, which means 'God is with us.'" In these last few days before the Christmas break, don't forget that Immanuel is there with you. In His coming, he guarantees that He is with us at all times, never to be truly left behind, only diminished by us when we put ourselves ahead of Him. Can we close this week with us bringing God, Immanuel, back to work with us and make the commitment for next year to have Him with us every day!

Reference: Matthew 1:23 (New Living Testament)

day 558: Whining Is Wearisome!

It is said that the squeaky wheel gets the grease. That sometimes seems true but it is also true that the consistently squeaky wheel gets replaced. We've all known someone at work who is a whiner and no matter how good things are for them, they are not happy and they complain to any and everyone without regard to others who actually have something to complain about but don't. We make other people tired when we whine and complain. Complaints are only reinforcing problems to ourselves and to others. And, who do we know who likes to listen to someone elses complaints ad nausea? Few, if any do. For many reasons we don't want to be known or perceived as a complainer or whiner. We can do better and we can rise above our issues and challenges and not pull others down. If we want to be leaders and role models we can't be known as a whiner even though the worst may happen or we feel like someone else should get theirs and we can't do anything about it. Justice is a hard thing to understand but even when we feel justice is not being served we have to get above the fray and not let it effect our attitudes. The prophet Malachi says the same thing to those who were upset with God because they didn't feel like God was punishing the right people as they believed He should. "You have wearied the Lord with your words. 'Wearied him?' you ask, 'How have we wearied him?' You have wearied him bu suggesting that the Lord favors evildoers since he does not punish them. You have wearied him by asking. 'Where is the God of justice?" Let's not weary others or the Lord with our whining, especially this time of the year when there is much to celebrate and to give thanks! Let the complaining and the whining be done elsewhere!

Reference: Malachi 2:17 (New Living Testament)

day 557: Clarifying For Understanding

Why is it so hard to ask clarifying questions? Clarifying questions are those asked when we don't understand what is being said and we aren't going to understand any better unless we dig down another level and ask what at the time might feel like the stupid question, but is actually the one that clarifies it all for us. It doesn't hurt at all to be the one who asks the question as others likely have the same question but are afraid to ask. We can be the courageous ones and take the chance of being the fool. The other reason we need to ask is that if we don't then we run the risk of missing out on what comes next or we end up faking it, which is worse. We've all done this at some point or another. Someone will bring up something, of which we have no clue, but we play along with the hope that the conversation moves on to something else and worse we pray we aren't called upon to add more knowledge to the subject. It would be so simple to say, "I don't understand", or better yet to say, "Can I ask a clarifying question about that?" We shouldn't have any fear in asking the follow-on question so that we are fully informed and can then add into the conversation or topic words and thoughts of substance. Any time we don't do this we are wasting an opportunity for ourselves and others. Jesus told His disciples that if they didn't dig in and understand the stories He was telling now, that they wouldn't understand later; "But if you can't understand this story, how will you understand the others I am going to tell?" We have to dig in. We have to seek understanding. We have to ask the clarifying questions and keep doing so until we get it. Imagine not and missing the messages that are coming our way? Start today thinking about what you can avoid missing just by asking one more question.

Reference: Mark 4:13 (New Living Testament)

day 556: Contentment

This time of the year when we start thinking about our results and progress for the year and more importantly, we start to think about next year's goals, we can start to get tough on ourselves and even more so start to look left and right and wonder why we haven't accomplished enough or more. Especially in the workplace there is the push to beat last year's performance with more, better, faster, and bigger. It is always good to have goals to strive to achieve and good to have goals that cause us to grow and stretch to new levels. Just by doing the assessment and writing our goals down, we become one of the 5% who actually do so. It's a small percentage of people who use goal setting and goal tracking to set their course. So, it is all good when we set those goals and start to measure. Where it becomes tricky is in the comparison of others and their performance, results and rewards. We must remember that the race we run is with ourselves. It is easy to start to look left and right and begin to see how we stack up and then either let that drag us down or sometimes worse, cause us to overcompensate and overreach to try and best someone else. I find that those who start from a place of being content in their own skin, knowing their limitations but still striving to expand and grow into those boundaries are not only the happiest people but also the people who just seem to have it more together than the people who are out there trying to prove to others how they are better. A good rule of thumb is to establish a level of contentment to work from and then push off from that place. Contentment is not always bad if put in the context of still moving and growing. I am not content with my Marathon running times, but I am content with knowing that I am in better shape than most and will never win a race or even place anywhere near recognition or reward. Paul told Timothy to establish his launching off position to be at the most simple level, "So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content." From that place and perspective, Timothy grew and became more but he didn't forget that there was a set of basics to be content. As we set our goals for 2011 let us find our place of humility and contentment and then strive to grow from that place.

Reference: 1 Timothy 6:8 (New Living Testament)

day 555: Gifts That Keep Giving

We are likely invited each year to at least one work-related holiday event at someones residence and we are faced with what to bring along as the leave behind thank you gift. I always marvel at these gifts as if they get beyond a bottle of something then they steer towards something for the house and those things are usually very much focused on what the woman of the house would like to receive; candles, soaps, holiday hand towels, piece of decorative ornamental, etc. It would be very unusual to see a set of picture hangers, molly plugs or hand tools. But, I digress. :) What we see in these gifts are what we expect that others will want to receive being that we really don't know them all that well and we have to temper them with the fact that this is work based. So, we end up giving gifts that are pretty bland, vanilla and nondescript. It's an interesting process because it is just the opposite of what we might really want to do and what someone would want to receive. The best gifts are those that are personalized and very much tailored to the wants and needs of the individual. What we really want is someone to receive a gift that they don't have words to express their appreciation because they are so blown away. Many times these are the gifts that we give of ourselves to others with our time, our resources, our skills, our caring and our thoughtfulness. And, we don't have to save those gifts for special occasions or the holiday season. Those are gifts that can be given everyday at work to others. As we think of how we are to give of ourselves to others we should look to the ultimate gift ever given and try and model to Him. In 2 Corinthians 9:15 it says, "Thank God for his Son - a gift too wonderful for words." We will never be able to give a gift like what God gave us but we can try our best to give of ourselves to others so that our gits keep on giving and giving!

Reference: 2 Corinthians 9:15 (New Living Testament)

day 554: Appropriate Office Gifts (Redux)

Repost from last year at this same time...

Appropriate Office Gifts
By the end of this week people will be leaving for the Christmas week, so between now and Friday whatever gifts that are going to be exchanged in the office will likely be given. As such, the business media pulls out their annual stories about the gifts that are given in the office and what is appropriate and what is not. Some companies have their own rules around what can be given to vendors or customers and those policies have to be followed. But few talk about what is okay to pass along to other co-workers, the boss, and subordinates. I was never much of a gift giver but if I did give a gift I played it safe and I would give, for example, the same book to all my direct reports. The reason we have to play it safe is that even a gift can be misinterpreted or worse yet animosity can be created if one person gets one gift and another gets something else. So, whether we like it or not, we even have to think hard about the gifts that we give at work. Another reason, I guess why we call it work. Here is a set of appropriate gifts that you can give to anyone and a set of gifts that can be given all year long, every day, to everyone. No, they are not Harry and David fruits. They are even better. The fruits of the spirit are the gifts that are all age, people and job appropriate. We read in Galatians 5:22; "But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." I cannot imagine a better set of gifts to give to others for this coming year. And how these gifts would multiply if we were able to give them daily and consistently. As we think about what it is that we can give to others, before we go to the superficial and the ones that are soon forgotten, used up, or thrown away, think about the gifts that you have as a believer and follower of Jesus and see if you can't start giving these gifts away, right away, even starting today.

Reference: Galatians 5:22 (New Living Testament)

day 553: And It Shows...Part 2

"So what do we have to show for it?", the CEO asks as she pours through the end of the year financial statements. It's not an unusual question or occurrence this time of year. When all the money that has been spent is added up and the results are being assessed we look for what we have to show for all that we have done. If we see results that can be measured or we can see the beginning of the sprouts that come from the seeds planted, then we feel good. If we see nothing, then we feel really bad and we wonder where we went wrong that caused us to waste the money, time and resources of our people. As we all know, business is not linear. If it was, then everyone would be able to do it and we wouldn't have questions about what works and what doesn't. But, it is not linear. It is many times convoluted and circuitous in getting to success. But the question remains in what we have to show for our efforts? The same can be said of us as individuals. At work we take on projects, spend time and spend money and we also have to show that we have provided more gain than loss. Somewhere, someone is figuring out productivity and considering the cost of us versus the output of what we provide. Yes, we have to have something to show for our efforts. Now, let's take it deeper and think about how we show up in our deeds and what we have to show for those? James 2:18 says, "I can't see your faith if you don't have good deeds, but I will show you my faith through my good deeds." There are many who believe that their good deeds alone will suffice and that faith is not necessary. But, we know that the foundation and the catalyst for those good deeds need to come from faith and the belief that we are representing Christ in those good deeds. It is when we "show" that we get the chance to share our faith with others and let them know where the desire to provide those good deeds comes. In this Christmas season we have many opportunities to do good deeds. Let us not miss the opportunity to let our faith also show through those deeds so that we can tell true story of Christmas to others.

Reference: James 2:18 (New Living Testament)

day 552: And It Shows....Part 1

I've always been fond of the old adage, "you can't tell what kind of person a child will be from their parents, but you can tell what kind of parents they are from the person the child turns out to be". It's the rare case, and usually a touching story about someone else who took a child under their wing, that a good kid didn't have good parents. I am always amazed at the parenting that I know must have happened when I see a kid who is beyond their years in respect, discipline and positive attitude. That stuff just doesn't just happen. It gets ingrained. The same can be said of teams in business. Teams don't just become highly aligned and productive on their own. They get that way because there is a boss who is behind the scenes setting the right goal and pace and providing strong support systems. The boss is a coach, mentor and barrier remover. The alignment of the team comes from a stitching together of people and recognizing complementary skills and needs and finding how to have people play off of each others' strengths and weaknesses. When a team or person is well coached, cared for and mentored, it shows. The same can be said about us in how closely we are allowing our work and lives to be led by our faith. James said in James 2:18, "Now someone may argue, 'Some people have faith; others have good deeds.' I say, 'I can't see your faith if you don't have good deeds, but I will show you my faith through my good deeds." James is saying that what we do shows who we are and why we do it shows through what we do. Today, are you showing what you want to show by your deeds and actions? Would others know that those actions come from a place of faith and love of our Lord? We are God's Children and for us to portray His image in the way He wants, we must be sure that our deeds and faith are consistent, every day. We must show up in the way of the Lord!

Reference: James 2:18 (New Living Testament)

day 551: First Time Leaders

One of the hardest times we ever have in our careers is the first time we become leaders of others. One day we are like everyone else and the next we are asked to lead and manage others who yesterday were our peers. Not only is this hard on the person who is stepping up but it is also hard on those who are being managed by this person as they learn through trial and error. Some companies will put people through a leadership and supervision course before they are promoted but most just allow people to sink or swim in the new responsibility. Net, it is hard on everyone when first time leaders are created and everyone should jump in and help. The manager over the newly promoted person has to work harder to mentor, advise and coach. Peers need to step forward and provide advice, counsel and encouragement. Subordinates, some who wish they should have gotten the job, need to be patient and understanding as the new leader finds their way. The new leader also must be humble and open to feedback as she/he makes their mistakes and learns. It can be a hard toll on the organization and everyone has to pull together for success to happen. We should also say a prayer for these new leaders. Great King Solomon even understood the challenges of first time leadership when he said in 1 Kings 3:9, "Give me an understanding mind so that I can govern your people and know the difference between right from wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great nation of yours?" Today, you may run into the challenges that come from a first time leader. See if today you can encourage, prop up and support this person as their success is your and your organization's success! Your word of encouragement could be just the thing that they need today.

Reference: 1 Kings 3:9 (New Living Testament)

day 550: Talent Within Us

We can get so focused on the talent that is outside of our companies that we fail to recognize the talent that is already working with and around us. Typically, those who have the job of filling open positions are so focused on the external recruiting side of the equation that it becomes unbalanced and there is not as much focus on the internal talent and how they should be developed and groomed to take jobs in the future. Anyone who feels like they were ever passed over for a promotion while they watched someone else be hired from the outside into the role has experienced this first hand. Without a doubt there are many times when new blood and new thinking is required into an organization and the only way to get that is to hire from the outside. However, there is a balance and when organizations consistently fail to recognize the talent that is within then there will be a follow on pattern of attrition that can become unhealthy. There is also an emotional impact on individuals when they are not seen or felt to have been developed and brought along. As with any of us, when we feel like our talents are unappreciated or taken for granted we can begin to believe there is something wrong with us and we can fall into our own pattern of not pushing to our full potential or performance. This is the worst outcome of all. It is human nature that we miss or ignore the talent within. Jesus said to his disciples; "A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among relatives and his own family." Are there people within your organization who with a little more recognition and sponsoring could be the talent that is being overlooked? Could you be the one who provides that extra spotlight and attention for them that allows them to grow and develop and be recognized as extraordinary talent already within the company? It's a worthy question and exercise and one that will not only be of value to your organization but more importantly, to a person who's life will be touched in a positive way and for us to be the one who provides that touch can be part of what we are supposed to do.

Reference: Mark 6:4 (New Living Testament)

day 549: Bah, Humbug!

It's a most wonderful time of the year and yet I see and hear lots of people who are moaning and groaning about the stresses and pressures they have on them before the end of the year. Of course there is more to do than there is time. When is that ever any different? This is an important time of the year for all of us but we need to be sure that we add on the significance of the season into our thinking and attitude. This is the time of the year when we can let our light and love shine on others and do so in a way that can make a real impact on others. Yes, we can be lights at all times of the year, and we should be, but this is a time when the hearts and minds of others are open to encouragement, celebration, thanksgiving, love and joyfulness. Annually across the country theaters are opening their versions of Charles Dicken's Christmas Carol. We all know the story of Ebenezer Scrooge who has to be shocked and scared into seeing who he is and what he will become to get him to change his ways and become joyful, grateful and giving. We go and see this show over and over to remind ourselves of what we don't want to be and who we rather should be. As believers this also is part of our job. We are to be the examples of what to be and if we are not joyful and expectant during this holiday season then we miss a tremendous window of opportunity. This is not a season of "Bah, humbug!". This is the season of "...Immanuel, which it translated, 'God with us'. There is our reason, if for no other, to be the ones who bring joy and thankfulness to our jobs today.

Reference: Matthew 1:23 (NKJV)

day 548: Following Directions

Yesterday I wrote on the importance of agreeing on a direction. Today, let's explore the importance of just following directions. The amount of time, energy and emotion that goes into discussing, debating and fighting against just taking and following simple directions is astounding. If you are a manager of others you have at some point sat and scratched your head wondering why someone who works for you just can't follow the simple directions given to them and worry about being fancy or something else different later. And if you work, you know the feeling of being told to do something you really don't want to do and you want to fight it. There are many cases where we should push back and try and take things in a different direction but there are just as many times when we should just follow the directions given to us and do the job well. To build confidence from our bosses it is important that they not see us as always wanting to go cross-stream. They need to know that we can follow their current and go with them and then get the job done well and beyond their expectations. If we are constantly fighting them and pushing against their directions then it becomes much harder to exceed those expectations and when the time comes for something critical to be accomplished in a short time frame, the task won't be given to someone who has to be convinced and talked to about why they should do the job. The assignment will go to the one who the manager knows will pick up the ball and run with it to their full ability. If we doubt that following directions can be a good thing see what Jesus prayed in John 17:4, "I brought glory to you here on earth by doing everything you told me to do." If Jesus could humble himself to follow directions and do what He was told to do, then certainly with the work we have in front of us, we can do the same.

Reference: John 17:4 (New Living Testament)

day 547: Agreeing On Direction

Not a day goes by that at work there isn't some discussion about the "direction we should be taking". This conversation can be at the highest level about the long term strategy of the company or it can be about what we should do with a customer, a website feature, or even what direction we should take with people and the organization structure. Actually, the latter two points are the ones that get talked about the most. Just listen in on the conversations at an airport lounge and the same conversation about what direction to take with an employee, a boss, a candidate, etc. becomes universal across any company or industry. Just change the names and the conversation is the same. Being able to agree on direction is very important and without it all kinds of strife and consternation occurs. Too many companies struggle and sometimes fail over just this issue. Way too many people fail at their jobs because they don't work a little harder to either understand what the direction is, or worse, they try and fight against the direction, only to find out that they become the odd person out. It is essential that there is agreement on direction and we have to do out part to be a part of the agreement. The Prophet Amos says in Amos Chapter 3:3, "Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?". We know the answer. Who are we trying to walk with today but can't because we haven't found that underlying agreement and understanding on the direction that we all should be heading towards?

Reference: Amos 3:3 (New Living Testament)

day 546: The Biggest Loser?

If you think this post is going to be about the TV show, I am sparing us from that. I actually like the show, even though it is my wife who gets me to sit down and watch it every now and then. The best part of the show is what happens after the contest is over and people who have had their lives changed go back and teach others how to lose and keep off weight. Whenever someone has improved themselves and then pass it forward, it's a good thing. But, I digress. It's the time of year when we start setting our goals for the coming year and many people will set a financial goal for 2011 and that goal starts with wanting to know what their income will be. There is nothing wrong with this inquiry, but if the quest for more income becomes more than a goal and becomes an obsession then it can be very dangerous. I am reminded of many a friend and co-worker who when you really got under what was most important to them it was the chase for the almighty dollar and when that chase looked fleeting they would bolt from one job to another regardless of all other factors. It became an obsession and that chase became the biggest loser for them. What can happen is that we become fixated on how much money we are making, or not making and then all other parts of our work will become filtered, colored and jaded by that one part of being employed. It's a slippery slope and one that we have to avoid. Paul puts wealth in an interesting category when in 1 Corinthians 7:30 he writes, "Happiness or sadness or wealth should not keep anyone from doing God's work." He was writing to church leaders, but he was writing to us too. If we allow our chase for wealth to become too important it can become a blocker and an obstruction for many other important facets of our lives. Being too fixated on what we earn, could earn or don't earn can without us even knowing it, keep us from gaining the best parts of our lives and leave us instead becoming the biggest loser.

Reference: 1 Corinthians 7:30 (New Living Testament)

day 545: Becoming Too Attached

Let's face it, our jobs are a huge influence over who we think we are and our self-worth and identity. It is common for me to have discussions with people about this as they they think about changing jobs or companies, especially when they have just lost their job or something has changed from a decision that was out of their control. That is when it becomes painfully obvious that we have become too attached to our work as the signature of who we are. Somewhere, along the way, we allow work and our job titles, to become that important to us. In reality, we all allow this to happen and as much as we want it to not be so, it is nearly impossible to separate the "who we are" from "what we do". So, what do we do so that we don't fall into the trap of becoming "too" attached? Not only do we ensure that we have many outside of work activities and relationships that can also define us it comes down to an attitude of attachment. We must always monitor this level of attachment to our job, to our company and to our work so that we can answer to ourselves who we would be if tomorrow it was all taken from us. The best advice comes from Paul in 1 Corinthians 7:31, "Those in frequent contact with the things for the world should make good use of them without becoming attached to them, for this world and all it contains will pass away." This is a good time of the year to evaluate our level of attachment to what we do. Has it gone too far? Does it need to be recalibrated? Is it time to ensure that what we do is not the full definition of who we really are?

Reference: 1 Corinthians 7:31 (New Living Testament)

day 544: Intentionally Quiet

As we go into the last month of the year there becomes a bit of a sprint between now and whenever we head off for the holiday break. Not only do we want to complete all of the work items that must be done before we take off for the holidays, we have the rest of our life activities to finish before the big day. If we are not careful we will find ourselves scrambling all month long just trying to get everything done in the "St. Nick" of time. Yet, there will be others around us who don't seem to get ruffled at all and they will go through this season at a steady pace and come across the finish line looking as though they never broke a sweat. What is the difference and how do they do it? Every person has their own coping mechanisms that work for them. There isn't a one size fits all answer but I will offer that getting some quiet time to be intentional each day will go a long way in making this month be one of wholeness and potentially also joyful in how work is done. What I mean by getting intentionally quiet is to commit a few minutes each day, either in the morning or in the evening before going home to look at everything that is to be done for the month and get it all on a piece of paper and slot the work into times for completion. For example, you know you have the annual wrap-up letter that has to be written. It's at the top of the to do list but it is going to take time and other things keep getting in the way. Don't let it just sit there, put a time on your calendar for writing it. Block off that time as sacrosanct. Use that time for that only. On your to do list, write that time next to it and then know that you have planned when to get it done and go to the next item and do the same. Each day that you do this you will see that you have plenty of time to get it all done and time to spare. But without the quiet time to get intentional it can all get away from us. The same is true of our spiritual lives. We must get the quiet intentional time to keep pace and grow. If we lose this time and intentionality we slip and fall behind. David says, "I wait quietly before God, for my victory comes from him." Today, before the end of this day, let's find that quiet time to get intentional for our work and God's work in us!

Reference: Psalm 62:1 (New Living Testament)

day 543: Hearing Or Listening?

There are no shortages in ways we are communicated to today. In fact, the messages come in so many different forms and so quickly, that we have to really work hard to be sure that we are not just receiving or hearing, but really listening. Listening goes beyond just taking in a message. True listening is about allowing something to sink in so that we internalize it and then when we respond or react we are doing so from a place where we have put the message into context and pulled it through our own filters for a comprehensive response. There are few things that are worse than getting back half an answer or finding out that the communication that we worked so hard to create, deliver, and ensure receipt, fell on deaf or uncaring ears. How we listen to others makes a huge difference in their willingness and desire to communicate with us again. Those who listen with both ears, an open mind and heart, and truly think about a response are the ones that people love to communicate and bring forth ideas, etc. We want to be known as those who go beyond hearing and come to be known as real listeners. We can read in Mark Chapter 4 how Jesus categorizes the different stages of listening in His parable of the farmer scattering seeds. We can also extend out the lesson to how we listen to others. If we allow the seeds that are sown to fall not on fertile ground we are losing a message and potentially alienating a person. Let us open up more than our ears and move from hearing to truly becoming listeners.

Reference: Mark 4:14-20 (New Living Testament)

day 542: Staying Relevant

The pace of change that is all around us can sometimes feel absurd. About the time we think we are up to date, or a just a little ahead, we find out that we are behind. I speak to different groups about the use of technology and I always say, "whatever we think is new is already old." It's true. Every day there is something new that has popped up and we have to consider whether or not we are going to take the time and effort to learn these new offerings, or stick with what we know and see what sticks and what doesn't. There is nothing wrong with this approach as long as we stay really close to what is new so that we can stay relevant and up to date. What we don't want to do is fall behind to a point where we feel like we can never catch up and our attitude slips into a defensive and/or opposing stance. Even worse, we can become cynical and before long we can look like curmudgeons. The risk in this is that we don't stay relevant and we get passed over for opportunities because others don't think we can learn or keep up. We might even find ourselves on the bubble when it comes to be thought of as someone who can keep the pace of change and be a part of the future, versus the past. The same can be said about our ability to influence and be the example to others that we want to be. We always have a new generation coming into the workforce and we need to be sure that we understand where they are coming from and what is important to them. They also need to see us as people who can relate to them. David felt the same way when he prayed to God in Psalm 71:18, "Let me proclaim your power to this new generation..." Today, think about those things and areas where with a little more effort and a little more energy you can stay relevant and up to date. Are there are things that you have been resisting but you know you need to dig into and learn? This time of year and thinking about goals for the New Year is a great time to make the commitment to staying relevant.


Reference: Psalm 71:18 (New Living Testament)

day 541: Thankfulness (Redux)

First published on day 290. I decided to re-run this post as it stands true today, just like last year. Happy Thanksgiving and have a GREAT holiday break.


I am just going to come out and say that there is not enough of a spirit of thankfulness when we are at work. Something not good happens when we put the key in the door or swipe the card key and cross the threshold into our workplaces. Sure, we tell people thank you throughout the day and we finish our emails with "thanks", but do we really, really have a spirit of thankfulness when it comes to our work and the people who we work with and around? When we are truly thankful for something we cherish it, we protect it, and we do whatever we have to do to keep that object, experience or person firmly in our lives. If we were to have everyone go around the room in a business meeting and do like we do in church and point out the things we were thankful for, it would be an interesting exercise to see what people highlight and even more interesting to see what they don't mention. When we do this at church, like I did this past weekend with the kids in my Sunday school class, the words come from the heart; family, friends, a house, food on the table, loved ones who care and pray for us, our church, the ability to freely worship, etc. And in this day and age, from adults you hear a lot more people sincerely thankful to have a job. But, if we come out from under the steeple and do the same exercise in the board room, I suspect the answers would be much different and way more superficial because the spirit of thankfulness is not alive and well in the workplace. Yes, there is a thankfulness for having a job in the first place, but even that is transferable and temporary. The spirit of thankfulness is getting down under the surface and really appreciating and loving something or someone for what they do and how they support us, and in return us caring so much that we would do nearly anything to keep them as part of our lives. This is a week where we should be going about the work of becoming thankful to others around us. Where that starts is with returning to the One who we can all be thankful and asking Him to instill that spirit within us. We read in Colossians 2:7; "Let your roots grow down into him, and let your lives be built on him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness." If we want to be known and seen as someone who is thankful we have to position our lives and ourselves to Him first. Someone at your workplace today needs to know that they are appreciated and that you are thankful for them. Can you seek them out, find them today and reach out to them with a spirit of thankfulness and really tell them how thankful you are for them? What you get back in return may be a whole lot more good than you ever expected.

Reference: Colossians 2:7 (New Living Testament)

day 540: Moving To Bigger

As we work through our careers we think about moving up and sometimes moving to bigger companies to establish ourselves and (maybe) to prove that we can work and succeed on a bigger stage. Many people are most comfortable in smaller sized companies but there is certainly an entire group of people who move from one company to another with the hopes and dreams of getting into leadership positions at the largest of the large companies in the world. I've had friends who once they broke into these Fortune 50 senior executive positions would never consider moving down the ladder into a smaller organization. For them, there is challenge and prestige in large scale. For others, that is far less important. But to all the idea of moving to something bigger as it relates to challenge and growth is a common quest. What we have to define for ourselves is what is the correct definition of larger and more expansive. It could be the expanded role we are offered within our own company or it could be the same position in a larger company. It could be expanding and growing what we do now organically and sticking with it as it grows. It is hard to always discern and sometimes we only know by trial and error. We take the risk, we jump into something bigger and if it doesn't work out then we try and find our way back to a similar role that we had before. This can work or we can learn as much about the bigger job from others as we can and then take our own self-assessment as to whether or not this will be good for us, before we jump. Either way we find out somehow where we best fit in the size of company and role thing. This is another place where we shouldn't keep God out of our work. We should allow Him to lead us as we consider the growth of our career and where we should be. King David talked about the larger places and the responsibilities he was given in Psalm 18:19; "He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me." When we wonder and plan about moving to something bigger, we should not forget that He knows what fits for each of us and if we allow Him to lead and ourselves to follow, we will discover our perfect size opportunities.

Reference: Psalm 18:19 (New Living Testament)

day 539: Who Is Thinking About You?

It's not an unusual statement or thought to hear that someone is wondering if there really is anyone at work who thinks about them. Well of course there is someone who thinks about them, but what they are wondering does anyone "really think" about their well-being, their career development, their dreams, their passions and the impact that the job is having on them at home or in their relationships? This questioning thought usually comes at the time when the person wondering is trying to figure out how they are doing, how they are perceived, or how their career is progressing or not. And no matter where they turn there isn't someone else who is there to talk to them and provide a perspective that is personal. Anyone who has felt this way is not alone. We all have been there and how we come out of our time of questioning can either end up in us moving through to where we are much less concerned about who is watching out for us, or we never quite come through and we end up changing jobs or companies to go somewhere where we feel like we are listened to, appreciated, loved, and watched over. This is real and something that everyone goes through at some point in their career. Here is what we all need to remember. Regardless of what we think, we can know that there is one who is always thinking of us. David writes of God for us; "How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can't even count them; they outnumber the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are still with me!" When we question who is watching out for us, then we don't need to sweat it as God is doing all the thinking we will ever need and He is not going to let us be forgotten, overlooked or misplaced. So, when no one at the office is paying attention to us let's not let it get us down because we can know who is thinking about us!

Reference: Psalm 139:17-18 (New Living Testament)

day 538: The Opposite Reaction

Every once in a while we are fortunate enough to be the presence of someone who has a opposite reaction to what we expect and we are amazed. Usually we don't want opposite reactions. Usually we want a predictable and expected response but in one particular case, the "opposite reaction" is extraordinary and this is when someone is being rewarded, getting thanked, or being showered with accolades. It is at this moment that the opposite reaction is always the best. In fact, if the reaction is genuinely opposite then we will actually go and tell others about it. What I mean is when someone shows full humility and passes their accolades on to someone else and while in that moment puts themselves so far below others that we are all amazed, touched and moved it becomes special. It is because the person's behavior is an "opposite" reaction to what most other people will do. It's amazing how many times throughout the day we have the opportunity to show humility. It starts with when we receive praise for the work we do. Since very little work is done by someone alone, are we taking that moment to show off someone else or show off ourselves? When it comes time to receive the award does it become ours or is it the teams? If we are looking for a role model we have to look no further than In Numbers 12:3 where we are told; "Now Moses was more humble than any other man on earth". Just to read that right, "...than any other man on earth". Yes, the Moses that we now hold up as such a great man and example can also be looked at as the man who must have done the "opposite" all the time as he was known to be a man of humility. This week what opportunities did you have to do the opposite and turn the glory and the spotlight over to others? What opportunities will you have today or next week? Remember, if we have the "opposite reaction" of what others expect from us, and we model humility like Moses, then our opposite reaction for what the world expects becomes then exactly what God expects.

Reference: Numbers 12:3 (New Living Testament)

day 537; Alertness

For most of us, alertness comes after the second cup of coffee or the morning workout. Thinking about being alert early in the AM is hard for a lot of people. I just happen to be wired to be a morning person so I enjoy getting up early, but alertness is not so great for me later in the day and into the evening. Being alert is a skill. Even when our bodies are alert it does not mean that our mind is the same. We can let our minds drift or be caught up in a different thought and totally miss what is going on around us and while we are totally awake, we are not alert. In today's business environment, being alert seems more important than ever. Being finely tuned to what is going on around us and being smartly aware of where the business cycle is going as it relates to our own companies and jobs has become important. If for nothing else, there are many people who feel like they need to be this alert for survival in the workplace. The fear of losing a job is still high and the concerns about what will happen next with the economy and employment remains of great interest and consternation. Staying alert has become an important part of what we need to do. But staying alert to the world is not enough. To be totally in touch with ourselves and what we are supposed to be doing with our work and lives we must be just as, and more so, alert and in tune with God as we are the with world we live within. Jesus told his disciples to stay alert in Mark 14:38; "Keep alert and pray. Otherwise temptation will overcome you. For though the spirit is willing enough, the body is weak." Today, gauge how alert you are and not only how alert you are to the world around you, but to what God has in store for you and what He is trying to say to you. This is the level of alertness that He wants from us and His words are as true for us today as they were for His disciples.

Reference: Mark 14:38 (New Living Testament)

day 536: The Distant Future

Part and parcel to working is the concern and thinking about our future and our career plan. It's a funny thing that we feel like with our work that we have to be thinking not only about our current job, but also about the next one and the one after that and that we get advice to be planning our career at all times. What can happen though is that we become so caught up in the thinking about the distant future that we lose the perspective of the job we are in and being sure that we do the current job well and get the most from the experience, etc. We are not good at living in the moment and being very objective about our current jobs as ones that we can enjoy and from which we can gain great satisfaction. I have a friend who is never in the moment in his job. He is always thinking and talking about the next job and what he can do to further his career and he has little to no regard for the ramifications of him always focusing on the distant future. He can't see that he is not giving his all to the company where he now works, is not investing in the people around him like they need and want him to do, and drives his friends and his family a bit crazy with not settling down. I am not sure what it is that drives this distant future focus versus living and working in the present, but he is not alone in this. Many people are like this. As I was reading the book of Ezekiel, God gives Ezekiel many instructions on what to tell the different countries and leaders about what is going to happen to them in the distant future. This is where the words "distant future" struck me as we cannot ignore what is coming and we must plan and be cognizant of the future, but we can't obsess on it either and miss the life that we have been put here to live. Being present for those around us and being okay in the job we are in today can yield many benefits and positives. Today, as you go through your day, think about how much time you are spending truly in the present and getting the most from it, versus worrying and obsessing about the distant future. It may well be that today, if focused on, could be of such value and worth that it blocks out all concern of the distant future.

Reference: Ezekiel

day 535: Spreading It Around

Purposed worKING spends a lot of time on trying to help each of us become better and better in living out our work lives in a way that God would want us to so that we can bring glory to Him in all that we do. There are so many lessons from the Bible that it feels like the fountain that can’t run dry. Each day that we face the small and big challenges of our work day and we are given the opportunity to either live, work and walk in the steps of our Lord and the examples and instructions given to us or to ignore and move in our own patterns and those of the world. As believers we know what we are to do, but when surrounded by so many others and the influences upon us, we can fall onto a path that we didn’t want to walk on but just end up there. It’s hard to be in the world. It’s hard to work. And, it’s even harder to work the way we want day in and day out. As disciples of Christ we have big charges put in front us. When Jesus says; “Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples”, He is not mincing words and He is making it clear as to what we are supposed to do. And as we all know, loving one another, all the time and consistently is as about as hard as it gets. But, this is what we are to do. At work we can show our love by being ones who are caring, listening, respectful, encouraging, appreciative and giving of ourselves. Maybe no one will ever describe it at the office as “love” but we will send the same important and powerful message. Today, look around you and think of someone who needs your attention and caring. There is always someone, so find at least one and go a little further with them today so that the descriptive words above would be tagged on you today if the other person was asked to describe you. Spread it around today and also see if it doesn’t catch on too.

Reference: John 13:35 (New Living Testament)

day 534: Clearing the Air

When we show up at a meeting or a presentation and we take stock of the people in the room it is always a more difficult moment if we look around the room and there are people there who we either have some unfinished business, or worse yet, there is someone there who we have a problem with that is unresolved. It can be felt in the air. If we know that one of those people are going to be there, even before we go into the meeting or presentation, it can really throw us off and give us angst. It begs the question why we ever let ourselves get into the situation where we either harbor ill feelings or we allow someone to feel the same about us. I was in a meeting the other day when someone else said something to which I disagreed. I tried to say to her, as politely as possible that I was in disagreement and that I thought we should think of things in a different way. She didn't say anything back, but it was clear that she did not like my disagreeing with her. We went through that section of the meeting and at the break I could just feel the coldness in the air. I got up and went over to her at the other side of the room to say that if I had overstated my disagreement, that I apologize. In a moment, the air was clear and we were back to the good place we were at the beginning of the meeting. If I hadn't done that, then I am sure that the rough patch would have gotten rougher and the bad feelings would have not gotten better. It's a principle we should all follow in that we shouldn't let any bad feelings be harbored or grow and its nothing new as we can read in Matthew; "So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person." We may not be going to the altar today, but we are always stepping in the footsteps of our Lord and He does not want us to be the ones who allow for others to have something against us. We are to be the ones to step forward, reconcile, forgive and move on. We are to be the ones who feel the responsibility to clear the air. As you start this week, is there any clearing of the air that you need to do?

Reference: Matthew 5:23-24 (New Living Testament)

day 533: Dealing

Much of work is about "dealing". Dealing shows up all over the place. We deal when we work with customers and negotiate fees, services, deliveries, etc. We deal with our co-workers when trying to decide who is going to do what and when. We deal with our boss when we figure out pay, hours, assignments, performance assessments, etc. We deal with ourselves when we inwardly decide on how hard to work and how much to put into our jobs. We deal with our family and loved ones over the days and hours we will be working versus be with them. Yes, we are constantly dealing. There are those who are superb at getting the best deal and those that aren't that good at getting a deal closed successfully. Dealing is a skill but it is just as much as an art as the best deals are those that everyone who is involved walks away feeling satisfied and treated fairly. A deal that is one-sided, while at the time looks good for the winner, is not a good deal. Anytime the other side feels like a loser or taken advantage of, then it is almost assured that the deal won't last and the relationship of the people who made the deal will be acrimonious. The art part of deal-making is being able to read and know the emotions of the other person and knowing when to pull-up and stop pushing any further. When in doubt, we can do two things to know where the line is drawn. First, we should apply the Golden Rule. It if it would feel bad to us if we were on the other side of the deal, then we've pushed too far. Secondly, we must listen to God's voice speaking to us through the principle taught in Leviticus 25:14; "When you make an agreement with a neighbor to buy or sell property, you must never take advantage of each other." Today, you are going to "deal" a number of times. Think hard about what God has said to us about making those deals. If we become one who always makes a fair and equitable deal, then we will also be known as one who others can approach and gain learning. We never know when we might get the opportunity to tell others about the most marvelous and fantastic deal of everlasting life and when that chance comes, we want to be able to do so as a person who consistently and credibly reflects in our work lives and rest of life the ways and the principles of our Lord.

Reference: Leviticus 25:14 (New Living Testament)

day 532: Master Key

When I was a boy I saw a custodian at our school who had one of those huge key rings with what appeared to be a hundred or more keys attached hanging off of his belt. I said to my Father, "When I grow up, I want to have that many keys to carry too." My Father replied to me, "No son, when you grow up, you want to be the person who only has to carry one key." I was too young then to understand the message, but over the years, I learned that he was correct. When you are the person who only has to carry one key, that being the master key, then yes, that is what you want. When given the master key, every door is yours to open and to lock. The master key comes with responsibility and accountability and it is a privilege not a right. The master key is a great metaphor for leadership. Leaders open, shut and lock doors for others. They must learn to do so with wisdom, caring and grace. Decisions made are like doors opened or locked. Decisions unmade are like doors that are left open but must be shut. Having the master key is a big responsibility. Fortunately for us, as we bring God to work with us today, we have with us the One who carries the true master key. In Revelation 3:7 we read, "He is the one who has the key of David. He opens doors, and no one can shut them; he shuts doors, and no one can open them." Today as we walk through the doors of our offices, let's be reminded that those doors that are open and shut for us in our careers are because He wants them open or shut for us. Let's pray to Him for the continued guidance and wisdom for the opening and shutting of the doors that are within our own control. Let's also remember that we have been entrusted with our own set of master keys that affect and influence others and may we each use and wield those keys wisely and for His purpose.

Reference: Revelation 3:7 (New Living Testament)

day 531: Recognizing What You Already Have

Consultants, which are everywhere it seems, are many times a function of the principle that we just don't believe we have good enough ideas or expertise inside of our organizations and that we must go outside of the company to get what we need. It's the grass is greener on the other side thing. So, consultants are brought in to tell us what to do and give us their big ideas. How many times though have we sat around during or after the consultants' presentations and say to ourselves sarcastically, "yeah, like tell me something I don't already know!". What is clear about this, so many times, is that the ideas and the expertise is already in the house, we just haven't figured out how to unlock those or we have put constraints on allowing people the freedom to express their opinions or implement their ideas. But, if someone comes from the outside, they don't carry any baggage and they don't feel any inhibitions to bringing forward their ideas, even though those ideas may not be anything new. We as believers know an account of a man who was not listened to in his own hometown. I often think of the people who were in Nazareth who missed out on being able to be up close and personal with Jesus because they just couldn't see past the familiarity of who he was. The same may be happening within your own company today. Are there people who have the answers and the ideas but we are looking past them because we are familiar or we don't listen to them because we don't like the way they say it, or we have heard it before? Today would be a great day to stop and see if you can recognize what you already have inside your organization and see if there aren't already people within your company who aren't yet being listened to, or need to be heard. Maybe one of the areas we are to lead is in being the person who can unlock those people and give them their voice!

Reference: Mark 6:1-6 (New Living Testament)

day 530: Condemning

I was sitting in a meeting the other day and I listened to one person condemn another (of course the person being condemned was not in the room) and without hesitation another person jumped on the the bandwagon to be shortly followed by another person. It was a bit of a bloodbath. With one small push back that maybe this wasn't a fully fair assessment that was taking place, everyone backed down and adjusted their stance. This interaction reminded me of how easy it is to tear someone down and how hard it is to get people to instead build others up. We are quick to condemn and we are fast to pass the blame and tag others for maybe what we should be stepping up and owning ourselves. I've found that those who fluidly condemn others are not the same people who take accountability and accept their lumps when they should. These are also the same people who others either fear or even avoid because they worry that whatever is being said about others is also said about them when they leave the room. Paul knew how easy it is for people to be condemning when he point blank denounced it in Romans when he was talking to those who he was working with; "So let's stop condemning each other. Decide instead to live in such a way that you will not cause another believer to stumble and fall." That Paul had to say such a thing to the believers he was working with, only reinforces how he knew that we easily condemn and do so without the regard we should have for others. Today, think about how much condemning is going on around your office and reflect on what part you might be playing or what you can do to bring the condemnation down.

Reference: Romans 14:13 (New Living Testament)

day 529: Layering

No one gets to be good at what they do without layering one skill and experience on top of another until they come to a place where they are really good, or even a master of what they have been working towards. As much as it would be great to get good by just showing up, we have to layer and layer until we finally have built up enough to draw upon so we really know what we are doing. There are many people who are not willing to spend the time and energy to build the layers. Either they don't believe that they should have to put in the time and efforts, or they are just too lazy to put in the hard work. Layering takes time. Layering takes patience. Layering takes an attitude of not believing that we don't need any more experience, any more practice, any more coaching, or any more discipline. Those that do layer and understand the importance of this are the ones who are able to have a few layers peeled back or punctured and still have much to work with going forward. We must learn to layer and learn to do so with each and every opportunity given to us. Peter tells us this as well when he writes; "In view of all this, make every effort to respond to God's promises. Supplement your faith with a generous provision of moral excellence, and moral excellence with knowledge." Peter is saying that we must layer our faith with our moral excellence, but even that is not enough. He says that we then must add the layer of knowledge. Peter wants us to continue to grow and grow through adding these layers into our life. Today, think about whether or not you are layering as you should.

Reference: 2 Peter 1:5 (New Living Testament)

day 528: Sucession Planning

Succession planning is a funny thing. All organizations at some point get asked (or sometimes by a Board of Directors, required) to do succession planning and articulate ideas about what would happen if the boss got run over by a bus and there was no time for planning, developing, grooming, etc. It's never a fulfilling exercise because choices are made, but not really, and no one really knows for sure what would happen, and everyone goes into the exercise thinking that none of this will ever happen anyway. I have never been part of a succession plan that had to be "triggered" because of a disaster or unforeseen change, but I have had friends who have been the executive in charge of the succession plan when the CEO or another top executive has died unexpectedly. What these friends have said is that when the succession plan has to get pulled out and looked at in this circumstance that they wish they would have paid a lot more attention to what was being put on the piece of paper, than they did when it was created. Many times a succession plan becomes a "formality" and we just do it, to do it. It doesn't have much teeth to it at all. One of the reasons why is because even if the decision is firm as to who the next leader will be, not much effort is put into getting that person ready as if they would have to take over tomorrow. The military actually does do this because they truly do have to have a real plan in place so that someone can take over without hesitation, within battle and never miss a beat. I many times wonder what is our responsibility to other believers within our work organizations and what are we doing to ensure that if we leave the company or something changes that those other people remain strong, courageous and enthused to bring glory to God in their own work? If they are looking to us as role models (someone always is) what are we doing to provide our own succession plan for them? Are we doing the things today that we should to make them stronger and more capable or are we taking for granted that they will always be there, or that we will always be there for them? David says; "Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me." Let's not wait until we are old and gray or until the time is too late. Let's find those around us and help them "move up" and be ready for what is to come. That in itself could make all that we do today worthwhile.

Reference: Psalm 71:18 (New Living Testament)

day 527: Knowing The Wind

Work consultants use wind analogies a lot. They talk about having "wind at your back", being able to "tack with the changes of the wind", how to battle "headwinds', understanding "turbulence", etc. The wind is a good metaphor for lots of things that are in our work lives because it is invisible but very forceful and it can either be a huge help or a real hindrance and the fact that the wind changes so often and unpredictably, it becomes even that much more relevant with the way our work and jobs can seem. Within our jobs there are many unseen factors that affect how we work and how we feel about our work. It's like when we walk into a meeting room and there is a chill in the air or a heaviness in the air that we know, without anyone saying anything, that this is going to be a tough meeting or we are getting ready to deal with a subject that no one really wants to talk about. And the opposite can happen when the boss comes bouncing down the hall, in a good mood and just wants to drop in and "catch up". Whatever it is, it's like the air and the wind and it shifts, swirls, and moves like its' own force throughout work. Knowing the wind is a smart thing but even smarter is knowing where and how we stand within the changing winds. What we want to make sure we are not doing is spending our precious time trying to figure out always where the wind is going, but instead, know where we are going and how we are getting there, regardless of the where the wind is blowing. Those who only follow the wind will be known as being political or indecisive. But, those who know who they are and where they are going and then manage the wind will be known differently, in a very positive way. This starts with knowing what is important for us to be doing and sticking with it. Solomon talks about his own work when he was "lost" and was not focusing on what he knew to be important; "But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless. It was like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere." No, we are not to "chase the wind". We are to be strong, firm and able to withstand whatever the wind may bring. Today, let's take a look at what we are doing and making important in our work lives and be sure that we are focused on the right things and like the wheat and chaff that separates with the wind, we are staying focused on the things that the wind can't carry away.

Reference: Ecclesiastes 2:11 (New Living Testament)

day 526: At The End Of The Day...

All day long we go back and forth from issue to issue, disagreement to disagreement, debate to debate. It's a pretty good chance that today at the coffee bar there are polarized debates that could happen, and maybe they will as winners and losers align and take their sides. It's not always pretty but it is real. The same thing happens in offices all across the country over all kinds of issues. Disagreements are just part of work and that's okay as if everyone agreed on all things then there wouldn't be new ideas or the needed tension to challenge the status quo. But, what can't happen is what happens too many times when people move beyond the issues and begin to take disagreements personally or turn an issue into a personal attack on someone else. I was recently at a dinner where new people were seated with each other and during the conversation one person began to move from a good debate to moving the conversation into a personal challenge. I had to intervene and tell the person, who I did not know, that that level of language and attack is inappropriate and unacceptable. The dinner was pretty cold after that. It is always easy to let a conversation or disagreement devolve into something that is not healthy. Here is what we need to remember. While it all seems so important right now and it seems worth fighting for, when the times change, or we move on, it is likely that what seemed so important will have dissolved or disappeared. But let's hold on to the things that do last and put our focus there; "There are three things that will endure-faith, hope, and love-and the greatest of these is love." Let's today focus on these three things and let the other stuff go. And if the greatest focus can be on love, then the disagreements and arguments should stay just at the place where they should be.

Reference: 1 Corinthians 13:13 (New Living Testament)

day 525: Decision Day

Today, all across America, people will be taking time before, after, or during their workday to go to an election poll and cast their vote. This happens in some form each year, but it's only during the Presidential elections and the two-years after that the country starts paying much attention. On election day we are given the opportunity to exercise our democratic right and we choose our elected officials and take a stand on issues that are up for vote. We stand in a booth, or we fill out a ballot and we make decisions. It's not unlike work and the jobs that we do where we make decisions all day long. The difference here is that we make a decision that no one really knows that we made unless we tell others when we are asked. Nonetheless we are forced, all at one time as a country, to make a decision. I sometimes wonder if one of the reasons we have such a low voting percentage in our country doesn't hinge on people's unwillingness, or fear, of making a decision. If our jobs and workplace are any indication, then this could be a real factor to low voter turnout. I have observed how hard it is for people to make decisions. I know that more people are indecisive than not, because when someone is decisive, they get called out and recognized for being so in a very favorable way. We are to be decisive and know where we stand on things. James tells us just this in his letter; "People like that should not expect to receive anything from the Lord. They can't make up their minds. They waver back and forth in everything they do." Decisiveness does not come naturally to us. Many of us have to be forced into it before we will make a decision. That is probably why there is an election day process; to be a forcing function for a collective decision. Today, consider if you are being decisive or not? Are there decisions that others are waiting on from you? If so, also consider that today would be a good day to get those decisions behind you. Make them and move on. Election day is a decision day, so let this be a decisive day for all of us.

Reference: James 1:7 (New Living Testament)

day 524: Leading By Example

Who do we look up to? Who is it in the company that we pattern ourselves after and would like to be like? Everyone has someone that if we think about it hard enough we will put in this category. Even if we are at the top of company, or a functional leader, there are still bigger companies and more distinguished peers that we can look up to and try and be like. There was a time that even the CEOs of the largest companies across America, when asked, would mention people like Jack Welch as their role model. We all look up. But, what we need to understand is that we may also be the role model of someone else. In fact, it's a pretty good chance that this is true and we probably don't even know that this is so. Just like we may have never told our role models that they are such, the same is true of someone else not talking to us. Wow, this leaves us with responsibilities and accountability that we don't even know about. But, it is does not absolve us of this responsibility. We can't be like certain professional sports athletes who think it is cool to make this counterclaim of not being a role model. It is what it is and we need to make the most of the opportunities provided to us. David talks about this in Psalm 71:7; "My life is an example to many, because you have been my strength and protection." Yes, we are the examples to many and today would be a great day to check in and ensure that we are leading by good examples. If others are watching and patterning themselves after us, then we need to do all we can to be an example to others that we should be. Moment after moment today, those opportunities will present themselves. Now, we just need to watch and lead by example.

Reference: Psalm 71:7 (New Living Testament)

day 523: "Once In A LifeTime"

We are experiencing "baseball fever" here in the By Area. The San Francisco Giants are in the World Series and are playing their hearts out, and winning (I write this will respect to my Texas readers who are cheering for their Rangers). Every office water cooler group here is talking about the Giants. Orange is the color of the season. Every where you go there is a reference about the Giants. Last night's game was one for the record books and as I listened to one of the post game radio shows, the host remarked, "this game was a once in lifetime game". "Once in a lifetime", is a phrase that gets bantered around when sports teams are playing in post-season championships or when we get a chance to go see something remarkable or unique by way of travel or experience. I am sometimes marveled by the number of times we hear that saying; "once in a lifetime". Why I am struck by it is that we should actually be saying it every day, all day long because each thing we do, no matter how routine or mundane is also "once in a lifetime." Even the assembly line worker who pushes the same button all day long could, if he/she so chose, determine that each time the button was pushed it is a once in a lifetime moment because no two times will that person be thinking the same thoughts, or the environment around them be exactly the same, or can they as a person (who is aging and changing) be exactly the same in two different moments of time. So, each and every day at work and out of work is filled with "once in a lifetime" moments. Then the question is what do we do with these days and times to make them important and memorable. David gives us some insight into this in Psalm 72:18 as he writes of the end of his lifetime; "Now that I am old and gray, do not abandon me, O God. Let me proclaim your power to this new generation, your mighty miracles to all who come after me." David never wanted to let a moment go by that he was not bringing glory to God. As we go through a day of our own once in a lifetimes, let us observe and be aware of how we are making the most of this time. Let us be an example and model to others so that each and every day that we walk with our Lord and allow Him to be our purpose, that we are making the most of our own "once in a lifetime" opportunities.

Reference: Psalm 71:18 (New Living Testament)

day 522: No, It Is Not Sweet

I have noticed over the years that the only place where people are more insistent on getting even and getting revenge than they are on the playground as kids, is at work. Maybe it is because we can so easily take out our frustrations and anger with someone else at work without too many repercussions, or maybe it is because work memories are only as long as the current boss and management team, so people feel more courageous to get even with others, hold grudges and do whatever it takes to put themselves in front of others, especially those that they feel have wronged them in some way. I have spent way too many hours in my career hearing about how someone feels mistreated, taken advantage of, spoken down to, etc. and just about the moment that I could start to feel a little empathy for them, they switch into spewing out their plans on how they will get back at someone or get even against them. Way too much energy is spent on this pervasive attitude versus reconciling, forgiving, forgetting and moving on. It is easy for any one of us to get caught up in this and lose perspective. Paul tells us that this is not becoming of the type of person that God wants us to be. He says in Romans 12:17; "Never pay back evil for evil to anyone." Notice that he says, "anyone". This means our competitors and our enemies too. Today, think about those who have offended you and ask yourself if you are still holding a grudge or worse yet, plotting and planning a revenge. In the eyes of God, revenge is anything but sweet.

Reference: Romans 12:17 (New Living Testament)

day 521: Let's Take A Walk

A few years ago, Hank Stringer (friend and co-author of our book, Talent Force: A New Manifesto for the Human Side of Business) had this idea for a video presentation that he called "The Purpose Walk". Hank's idea (which still should be done) was to to have an interviewer take a walk with an accomplished executive and talk about that executive's past, values, principles, learning and then culminate with the executive talking about his/her purpose and what it means to them. I thought these would be fascinating segments to watch and learn from. I also like the idea of taking a walk to clear our heads and to think and talk. I know people who just vacate the office at certain times of the day to clear their head. They usually do this alone, but imagine if we were to take a walk once a day with someone we wanted to learn from or hear their experiences? How great would that be? Well, if wanted to do that, we could. It just takes us starting it and asking someone else if they want to get out of the office for a few minutes, stretch their legs and get some fresh air. Who wouldn't want that? Solomon said that we can become wise this way; "Walk with the wise and become wise..". And if we don't have anyone who wants to walk with us, I know someone who always wants to take a walk with us and will allow us to say anything that is on our mind, talk about any problems we have, and take on any challenge or problem that we have. That walking partner is always there and all we have to do is open up ourselves to Him. You might want to consider taking one of those walks today and see where it leads.

Reference: Proverbs 13:20 (New Living Testament)

day 520: The Arc Of A Day

When we rise in the morning and ready ourselves for work we shift our mind and thinking to going away from our home and loved ones to another place where we may not be as happy or as fulfilled, but know that we have a job to do so we go do it. We give it our best. We forget to call home. We lose track of the hours and along the day we find ourselves more engrossed in our work than the rest of our lives. As the day winds down and the people around us begin to log-off and pack up we do the same and as we commute back to where we spend most of our time we transition back into the other person who now needs to provide time and attention to those who are also in our lives but don't share the 8-16 hours a day that we do when we are working. We refresh in our hours away from the office. We recharge in the love and companionship of family and friends. And then we start it all over the next day. We live the arc of a day, each and every working day that we have. What is amazing about the human spirit and ability is that we find both power and energy in our time away from work and within our work. Together, if balanced, we are enthusiastic and fit to tackle the challenges within and outside of work. But, that arc must be managed and balanced for it all to work correctly. When out of synch then we know how we feel; burned out, exhausted, overwhelmed, etc. I was struck by a verse this past week in John Chapter 17. Jesus is near the end of his earthly life and He prays to His Father; "Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began." I read this verse early in the morning before a day that was destined to be out of balance. There would be no time to rest or no time to communicate outside of the work that needed to be done. It was going to be a day where I was not looking forward to the challenges ahead. And then I read this verse and God spoke to me and said, "take a look at what Jesus/I did and then tell me that you can't get through any day ahead of you". I reread the verse and saw Jesus walking out the door to go do His work and near the end of His day looking forward to returning home and to the time before the work began. I heard Him managing the arc of His day! God knows our arc as He created it for us. Allow Him today to carry us from home to work to home and to make the most of the arc of this day!

Reference: John 17:5 (New Living Testament)

day 519: Slower Can Be Faster

It was Napoleon who was quoted as saying, "Dress me slow for I must ride fast today". Today we have shortened it to, "Slower is Faster". That's not always true but there is some sense in the saying. If we are not prepared, or if we don't think about what we are going to have to do when we get to where we are going, then when we get there, we won't be ready. On the job it is always hurry up and today its about immediacy. We want our information now without hesitation. We want our messages to be pushed to us continuously regardless of where we are and what we are doing. We want to know that those we work with are in constant communication and always on and ready to reply. So, when someone comes along and asks us to sit down, plan, write it out, rehearse, discuss, think or to go slower, we rebel or at the least we don't want to get out of our pattern or lose our momentum. But, sometimes we do need to go slower to be faster. But, it's really hard to do this in today's world. Just to provide some context, this is really not that new. In the Psalms, David wrote about saying to God; "In the day when I call answer me speedily”. He also prayed; “I am in trouble: hear me speedily”. David was not willing to go slow with God, but instead was just like the rest of us and wanted, in this case, his answers, now. But that is not how God works. He works on us slowly so that one day we can go fast with confidence. Think today about what areas in your life are you asking God to hurry up and work at your speed versus His. Also, take a look around your office and see if there some areas where you could benefit from slowing down to see where slower could be faster for you and those around you.

Reference: Psalm 102:2, 69:17 (New Living Testament)

day 518: Obstacles

We all have had work obstacles that kept us from getting done what we think we should have, could have, or wanted to do. Sometimes these obstacles are uncontrollable in the sense that we are provided assignments and people to work with, or circumstances and decisions made are outside of our sphere of influence. But, even with all of that, we are able to control how we think about these obstacles and how we allow ourselves to feel. I am constantly amazed at the people who can come to work each and every day and regardless of the challenges or obstacles in front of them, carry with them a positive attitude and a sense of optimism that no challenge is too great or no obstacle too hard that it can't be overcome. The irony is that these people are also the ones who the boss looks to when she/he has something to be done that seems impossible to achieve. Why? It's simple. The person who cannot see obstacles stopping them, no matter what, are the ones who get the most done. If we look at the obstacles in front of us and shrug our shoulders and say, "it can't be done", then it should be of no surprise that others wouldn't bring us their challenges, their problems to be solved, or their need for advice and counsel. This is not the way we want to be perceived or known. We want our reputation to be one of being the person who seems beyond the challenge and sees the opportunity within the problems. Paul tells us in 1 Corinthians 7:30; "Happiness or sadness or wealth should not keep anyone from doing God's work." We are doing God's work when we are bringing glory to Him in the earthly work that we do for a living. If Paul says that even happiness or wealth should not get in the way of doing this work, then surely there is no obstacle we could imagine that should get in the way of us being the best we can be and approaching our work as being filled with many possibilities and really, no obstacles that can stop us.

Reference: 1 Corinthians 7:30 (New Living Testament)

day 517: Pick Your Work Friends Carefully

We aren't always fortunate enough to choose who we work with on our jobs, but we do get to pick our friends. We may be limited by geography, departments or some other reasons but in most cases we still get to choose who our friends are at work. Our friends say a lot about us to others and our friends, whether or not we know it or not, have a huge influence on who are and how we act. I remember working with a person who became a work friend and we all hung out together. He was funny and smart and he had his own sayings about things and before long we all were saying all the same cliches that he said. Some of them were good things and some were bad things. The point is that we chose our friend and before long we all had picked up his habits. For those outside of the clique I am sure now that it looked like Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men. The same can be said about what can happen to us when our friends are not such happy people. We can also get dragged down from the attitudes of others and become associated with these attitudes too. In Proverbs we read; "Don't befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people." We need to be careful about who we pick as our friends as they become an extension of us and they also become more influential to ourselves than we may know.

Reference: Proverbs 22:24 (New Living Testament)

day 516: Helping Each Other

Liberty Mutual's most recent television commercial shows one person doing a kind act for another person while someone else is watching and then the person who was watching later does a good act, and so it goes. What is striking about the commercial is that the person who does the act of kindness does not know that they have been seen, nor do they ever know that their act inspired someone else to do the same. The lesson is a powerful one and provides us with an example of how the works of kindness and consideration that we do can turn into something quite powerful and like the commercial, become a chain of good actions. As we work in our jobs, how often do we think about doing that extra act of consideration that others would see as the role modeling of how they are supposed to also be behaving? Jesus told us that there were two commandments that stood above all others, when He said that we are to love the Lord God with all our heart, and also to love our neighbors as ourselves. The Pastor of my church made the point this last weekend that as followers of Jesus, we don't get to choose between the two. There is no "or", it is "and". So, this means that we have to love and treat our neighbors as we love our ourselves and this extends to our co-workers. Today, think about the actions that you will undertake and how those actions either live up to the commandment or doesn't. Our ability to do an act of kindness or provide an unexpected act of consideration, may well be rooted in where our heart is and our relationship with the Lord. Today, start with an action of helping someone else and do so from your heart.

Reference: Mark 12: 29-31 (New Living Testament)

day 515: Work Talk

Sometimes we forget what is work and who is watching when we are working. I don't know if any professional athletes read Purposed worKING, but there are some who I wish did so that they would recognize that when they are working, we are all watching. This past couple of weeks have found me watching lots of hours of baseball. Yes, I have been hanging around the workplace of, in particular, The San Francisco Giants and The New York Yankees. Maybe it is high definition TV or I have gotten better at reading lips but the work talk of baseball players is pretty distinct and a bit salty. And this is not just from the rank and file, but also from the management as the TV cameras head into the dugout. Okay, so most of us don't show up on national television when we are working, but there are plenty of people who are watching and listening. The example that is left with one person, or ten, or thousands, is one that we need to recognize can be long-lasting. It is also hard to recover our reputation once the words start spewing. Paul says to us in Ephesians; "Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them." Some might be wondering why this theme of controlling our language comes up so often in Purposed worKING? The answer lies in the last time any one of us let a word slip that we so wish we wouldn't have said and how quick the word rolled off our tongue. Some areas in our life need more reminding than others. Our work talk could be one of those areas.

Reference: Ephesians 4:29 (New Living Testament)

day 514: Revving Up

Mondays are when the engines start to rev up for the week. Well, actually for most people, Sunday night is the beginning and by the time we hit the bed our mind is already racing and we can toss and turn all night in anticipation or anxiety for what Monday morning and the week will bring. While we want to hit the ground running on Mondays at full speed we still want to ensure that we haven't short-changed our ability to recharge over the weekend, or worse have not given enough time and attention to family or those who also need our relationship energy and time. There is something to be said for coming into the week with a sense of knowing what needs to be done but doing so in a calm and purposeful manner that invites ourselves and others to focus and be deliberate. When the pent up energy comes through the door like the Tasmanian Devil from the Bugs Bunny cartoons that energy can also be the start of a frenetic week that goes in any and all directions. One way to ensure that we rev up in the right way is to place our priorities correctly and to put our mind and spirit where they should be before we hit the office door. David writes in Psalm 37:7; "Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act." If we can start today in time with the Lord and before we get all revved up, and we find enough quiet time to be still, then we might find that we how the rest of our day and week goes is more "revved up" than we could have ever imagined. It takes patience, as the verse says, but that patience can turn into something special, if we let God do his work on us first.

Reference: Psalm 37:7 (New Living Testament)