An Admirable Goal for Leaders

Success is a journey, not a destination.
The doing is often more important than the outcome.
– Arthur Ashe

Two weeks ago, our pastor discussed our path through life, that we all experience ups and downs, good times and difficult times; that we have happiness and joy and, at times, sadness and strife.

He asked us to realize that the strength of our faith, our character and our spiritual values will help us navigate our path through our life’s journey. When we can trust that, we can enjoy the journey.

I thought about the goal of enjoying the journey. What a wonderful purpose, to think positively and help those we are with, those we touch with our lives. What wise counsel, to trust that our good works will guide us so we can enjoy our life’s path.

And then I thought about our work lives. As leaders, can we have a goal of enjoying our business journey?

I had a wonderful conversation about this idea with Kevin O’Sullivan on a recent weekend. He has a successful architectural firm in New York, Kevin O’Sullivan & Associates. We spoke about his leadership goals, to help his people enjoy their work. He tells people not to work past 6:30 PM. And not to work on weekends. Only he works nights and weekends. If there is a project due and there is still work to do, he’ll call the client, explain the situation and ask for an extension. On the occasions when their work product must be delivered, his team members gladly go the extra mile and offer to work through the weekend.

He thinks of little things that help his team enjoy work, such as saying that slippers are ok at their desks and friendly dogs are welcome in the office.

And he asks everyone for input on planning and decision-making, including interns.

I love Kevin’s attitude. He realizes the importance of his people – they are his priority.

While we all cannot permit dogs in our offices, we certainly can think of ways to help ourselves and our co-workers to enjoy the journey.

Because, what better goal is there? If we help our team members and other colleagues feel good about themselves, help them feel appreciated, valued and heard; if we ask them for their ideas, and how we may help them learn, grow and succeed, then rest assured we will all be very likely to enjoy the journey. We will gain satisfaction from the satisfaction and success of others.

In fact, we could share this goal with our co-workers right now, and ask them for their ideas. What can we do to make our work more enjoyable here? We’ll gain valuable input and our culture just might improve – a whole lot!

Yes, as leaders, let’s enjoy the journey.