Leadership Lessons: Setting a Standard
It was our second daddy-daughter dance.
I didn't have to get so dressed up. There was no need for a pocket square and cuff links. Wearing my best tie wasn't necessary. Buying a corsage that perfectly matched her new shoes might have been excessive. Walking her to the car arm-in-arm, opening all the doors for her, holding her shoes when she wanted to dance, carrying her when her feet grew tired, and holding her things in my pockets for her didn't need to be done. She's so strong and independent, she didn't need me to do all of these things, but I did them anyways. Not for the world to see, but rather for her to understand the importance of: purposeful actions and attention to detail are both critical in setting a standard.
Setting a standard for which one presents themselves and for the quality of work they complete, is true for every avenue of life. This isn't about impressing others or showing off. This is about how attention to the details under your control, will differentiate you from the rest of the pack. Going the extra step will separate you in the crowd. In a fast pace world, many won't notice the details, but you will, and the people who see the value in that do as well.
Whether it's spell checking your email multiple times before hitting send, making sure every hyperlink in your document goes to the most recent pages, ensuring that you've studied up on the company and industry before the meeting, remembering the professional and personal details shared with you by your colleagues and clients, or figuring out ways to solve for the challenges specifically told to you, the details matter. Some of those things seem small, but look immense if missed. Sure, the end result is what matters most, but how you present yourself along the way eventually becomes a factor in your career. In addition, you leave an example for those watching your progression.
Similarly, she may not remember all the details. She may only remember: dancing with me, taking silly pictures with her friends, and the big balloon drop at the end, but someday she'll expect a standard of herself and those around her. She'll quietly lead by example, and let her attention to the small details speak volumes. That's the hope anyway. In the meantime, we'll just enjoy dancing, taking silly pictures, and catching balloons.
#leadershiplessons # girldad #culture #settingastandard #process