How often have you said “Better late than never”? Like many, probably a few times. Close cousins of this expression include “I tried”, “I’m sorry”, and “I’m not feeling my best today”. While they all may be true, they may also sound like excuses.

When we rely on these expressions, we unwittingly are setting the bar too low for ourselves. Essentially, we are giving ourselves permission to do a mediocre job. The key to improvement (and achievement) is slow and steady positive progress – which means consistently moving beyond our goals, not explaining away the reasons for non-performance.

To solve this problem, consider:

• Set clear goals in the first place, and hold yourself accountable for achieving those goals.
• If you’re too ill to work, don’t spend the time in the office not working. Work with your manager to find other ways to make sure the schedule doesn’t slip.  And given everyone’s sensitivity to COVID, this makes even more sense.
• When you speak to others, share results, not reasons.
• Do not dwell on a less than stellar performance. Instead, share your findings, and how any issues will be resolved.

While we typically don’t think anything of it, the words we use say much about our motivation and capabilities.

Does this topic resonate? Reach out to Randall: he can present it to your group.  (More presentation topics)
Download Randall’s professional credentials: Speaker credentials one-sheet or Management Advisory credentials.

Content Authenticity Statement: 100% original content: no AI was used in creating this content.

@RandallCraig (Follow me for daily insights)
www.RandallCraig.com: Professional credentials site.