An avid fan of classic rock and roll, I love watching the induction show into the Hall of Fame. The range of talent impresses me; what’s more, the range of talent with formal and classical music training inspires me. There is a deep truth locked in that fact.

In order for the stars to “riff” in their own styles, they have the basics and classical structures to build upon. Several of the group, Chicago, attended Juilliard School in N.Y. They are classically trained musicians. Many artists attend the Berklee School of Music.

So, what’s the point?
My point is that values are like the classical foundation for musicians. Once your values are crisp and clear, you can make cleaner decisions based on a solid foundation!

As a business coach, I am gobsmacked by the lack of attention business owners have to a lack of awareness they have to create a culture for their company. They are deeply focused on creating “widgets” that they are unaware of what is invisibly being created in parallel, the environment in which people will work to produce the “widgets.” Would you produce popsicles in a non-air conditioned, non-refrigerated plant? Would you create faux fur coats in tropical climates? Sounds silly but this is one reason many young companies fail. They don’t think beyond the task!

What thinking beyond the task requires!  

Tough questions need to be asked at the outset:

1. What does the company stand for?
2. What kind of leader will I be?
3. What do we really offer beyond a product or service?
4. What is memorable about our company personality?
5. What are the core beliefs that drive our mission?
6. What behaviors do we reward?
7. How open is our process for innovation and creativity?
8. How business literate is everyone associated with the company from the lunchroom to the boardroom?
9. When do we introduce our providers and vendors to our processes?
10. What do we “sound” like to the outside world? 
11. How does our strategic plan and focus align values with each element?
12. How often is the company exposed to these beliefs? Where are they posted?

 These questions will get you started or start a conversation to reinforce your vision, mission, and values. Good luck. When you submit a response to let me know your progress, you receive a complimentary review of your input. Please put “Review” in the subject line.

The new year is my favorite time because of all the promise it holds. It is a marker, a time to reflect, then proceed forward to accomplish our targets. We humans need structure so markers are stabilizing for us.

Completion
This is important because endings are important as beginnings. By closing one chapter, loose ends are tied up. There is a sense of completion. Completion is essential to fulfillment and satisfaction.

Rather than dart from one task to another, we can gain a sense of purpose when we achieve a result or make charted progress toward a set objective.

I find teams are like families. Everyone gets to play! It is essential to map out the course, solicit input, and have participants know they matter through their contribution. This sets the tone for the rest of the year.

Time to Celebrate

Importantly, we must take time to reflect on the progress made and reward diligence and leadership throughout the duration of the project. It is positive to take a step back and breathe in the accomplishment. It is energy to continue progressing.

Clear, uncomplicated communication, preferably in writing, offers opportunities to question and clarify so the pursuit of the objective is unimpeded. When ideas are written they take on weight and value. Participants can check off their progress as well; it’s visual.

Happy holidays and new year. And may all your dedicated work display your purpose and promise to improve our world. -MC

When Karin invited me to write about three things I am thankful for in business, the Sound of Music song, “These A Few of My Favorite Things”, sprung to mind.

Gratitude is a personal value for me. I practice it daily. It supports my perspective as an optimist. My family is the greatest gift of all.

Here are my three gifts of gratitude: (♬ ♪♫♬ Sung to the tune of my favorite things!)

I am grateful for the blessing of a sharp mind and the ability to learn and share ideas with others.

I am grateful I can contribute to the world and my circle of influence.

I am grateful for the ability to engage in different perspectives when addressing issues and challenges while I seek solutions.

Have a wonderful holiday season.