When people talk about life being like a roller coaster, they often mean that there are good times and bad times. But, like life, roller coasters also speed up and slow down.
And right now, we at VLC are moving fast…very fast. We have been fielding calls, creating work orders, completing work orders, and working extended hours. Helping our customers is a great motivator, but sometimes we get in our own way.
The old saying goes, “Haste makes waste.” At this point in time, I think this saying is appropriate to consider.
Last week, we dealt with a situation where we were so intent on getting credentials to a customer, that we missed a form that was required by the DMV. We were like teen drivers who are so excited to get somewhere that they forget to fill up the tank with gas. There we were, stuck on the side of the road.
Also last week, we began training two new hires. At one point, I was showing one of our hires (Kristin) a “shortcut” on the Mac, since she had only ever used a PC. I fumbled through the “shortcut” several times before actually making it work. By the time I got done, it wasn’t a shortcut at all! It took 3 times as long! Kristin just looked at me and said, “You just need to slow your roll.”
I have heard this phrase many times, but it is really making an impression on me at this point in time. We tend to create more work for ourselves, when we try to do things fast.
I believe slowing things down just a little will make us more efficient, not less. Taking the time to double check documents and signatures is an example. Taking the time to compose an email that is polite and easy to understand is another. Ultimately, we want to make sure we are honoring our customers and each other. Yes, this may take an extra few minutes, but it will make a huge positive difference for all involved.
Focus on doing it right, not fast. This roller coaster is in our control. Let’s slow it down. Let’s slow our roll.
What situations make you react quickly? Is this when you make mistakes?
What stops you from being able to slow things down and take a deep breath?
Moving forward, what can you say to yourself to remind you to slow your roll?
Have a great week team!
Chuck Ross
John Maxwell Certified Coach, Trainer, Speaker, and DISC consultant
Author: Change? Whiskey Tango Foxtrot!?
530-277-6161
“They themselves are makers of themselves.” James Allen
