By: Jason Barger
Author, Speaker, Consultant, and creator of the Step Back from the Baggage Claim Movement
“The height of cultivation always runs to simplicity.” – Bruce Lee
Chances are, we’ve all been told to “Keep It Simple Stupid” at some point in our lives. But, as our knowledge base increases and our leadership spheres widen, the natural tendency (and trap) is to “out think” the situation.
As we think about the cultures we are trying to cultivate within our staff, department, hospital, or most importantly, our world, we must start small – our own individual actions. What seems simple is often the most difficult for us to actualize. Yet, it is our simple, small, intentional actions that separate good leaders from good managers.
This week, try to K.I.S.S. those along your path with a new spirit.
K – Keep eye contact. It is amazing how empowered another human being can feel when they sense your eyes value them and that moment.
I – Include others. We build too many walls when bridges are needed. Include someone new at lunch, in an important decision, or a discussion that needs another point of view.
S – Slow down. In a fast-food culture and world of instantaneous communication, allow yourself a few minutes to be still and centered. When we don’t, we race recklessly past people on our path.
S – Send positive ripples. Intentionally send messages rooted in appreciation, celebration, and compassion to those around you. A genuine note, email, phone call, or purposeful stop at their office door, can deliver rejuvenating ripples that do spread.
So, who will you K.I.S.S. along your leadership journey today
Thanks for your comments Jason–very thought provoking. Would you provide an example of how you were able to “slow down,” yet still be productive in our fast paced, achievment oriented society?
I’d be interested in that, too Mark. “Stepping back” is so difficult inside the crazy and hectic environment of medicine. Developing tools and a culture (through practicing technique) that values the ability to step back and take a moment to appreciate the people we have the chance to interact with is just one more way we can truly personalize the experience of health care.
Mark & Ryan – Thanks for your comments!
I do agree…”Stepping Back” in the fast-food culture that we live in can be very difficult. Our hectic to-do lists and expectations in our career lives can often feel like the frenzy around the crowded baggage claim in the airport – everyone trying to “claim” what they want.
One simple practice that has helped me on my leadership journey has been to find 10 minutes in a day to ‘Step Back’ from the ‘to do list’ and honor two thoughts:
1) What am I grateful for in that moment?
2) ‘Why’ do I do what I do?
When we allow space and time to connect back to our Mission & Purpose out of a spirit of gratitude, we’re more equipped to handle the “obstacles, delays and cancellations” that come our way.
These small actions begin at the individual level. Then, we’re able to spread this spirit and dedicate time as a staff, department or organization as a whole. I think it is vital for any team to ‘Step Back’ every few months and “Reawaken their Passion” together. That’s how healthy cultures are created!
Read more here… http://stepbackfromthebaggageclaim.blogspot.com/2010/06/reawakening-our-passion.html
Even more so in the health care world, as we strive to take care of the whole patient, not just physical maladies – we need to be cognizant of taking as good care of our selves as our patients. We are of no use to our patients and their families, if we are physically / emotionally / mentally past our limit.
As Jason alludes to in the phrase “our fast-food culture”, there are cultures where stepping back is seen as selfish, a waste of time, a decrease in productivity. But I posit that to not give ourselves the gift of stepping back could, in some cases, mean life or death in this sphere.