We have been in a mini-series discussing how to stand out at work so you can get promoted. Today, we’ll conclude with the 5 characteristics of people who excel at what they do.
1. They work with enthusiasm. Whether the job is big or small, give it your best. Great performers give their best effort, no matter the size of the audience.
2. They sharpen their skills. They never stop developing, growing, learning, and improving: “If your ax is dull and you don’t sharpen it, you have to work harder to use it. It is smarter to plan ahead.” It takes more than desire to excel; it takes skill! Remember: You’re never wasting time when you’re “sharpening your ax.”
3. They keep their word. They are reliable. They can be counted on to do what they say they’ll do. They excel because people of integrity are rare in our society. As a proverb says, “Everyone talks about how loyal and faithful he is, but just try to find someone who really is!”
4. They maintain a positive attitude. Even under the worst circumstances, they don’t become negative. Remember: “If your boss is angry at you, don’t quit! A quiet spirit can overcome even great mistakes.”
5. People who excel do more than is expected. This is a secret that every successful person has discovered. You’ll never excel by only doing what is required. Live generously.
The Broadway lyricist Oscar Hammerstein once told the story of seeing the top of the Statue of Liberty from a helicopter. He was impressed because of the incredible detail the artist sculpted in an area that no one was expected to see. In fact, the Statue of Liberty was completed with no idea that man would someday be able to fly over the statue!
To put that into practice, let’s ponder the following questions:
- Which of the five characteristics for excelling at work resonates most with you? Why is that characteristic particularly important or meaningful?
- The story about the detail on the Statue of Liberty highlights doing excellent work even when no one is watching. When have you felt proud of yourself for your diligence and craftsmanship on something others may not fully see or appreciate?
- Have you ever gone above and beyond what was expected of you at work? What motivated you to put in that extra effort? What was the impact on your career or relationships with others? What’s one thing you can do this week to go above and beyond your required duties?
Leave a comment below and let me know. I’d love to hear from you!.
Excerpt taken from Daily Hope by Rick Warren.