We all like complaining. Some more, others less. But couple that, with the fact that most people default to following the easiest (as opposed to the ideal) solution when dealing with an unexpected, non-priority issue, and you can see why in many organizations the whiners, are actually the winners.
Alfred Pennyworth used to say that “Some people just want to watch the world burn.” I do not know about the World, but as a friend told me once, some people deserve to get burned. And they all have one common characteristic – Self-centeredness.
Joker said that “If you are really good at something, you never do it for free” which is good to keep in mind when requested by others to help them without pay. I am also outlining other factors that I like to take into account when considering such requests:
Spring is here. Some see it as an excuse to take a break, others see it as a chance for rebirth and renewal. The way you will use your springtime will dictate how easy your next winter will be. It is not enough to just “get by” anymore. You will need to ensure that you Read more about Long Story Short #5: Spring break[…]
Fighter aircraft pilots know full well the dangers associated with the use of their afterburner. Some company executives however, seem to be completely oblivious to the fact that even though their airplane keeps flying towards its destination, it is actually just gliding, affected by the laws of inertia, as fuel has long before run out. Read more about Long Story Short #4: The afterburner[…]
…I also have a 6th point for you (yes, I am so generous that I provide 20% more than promised, without even being asked to): If almost 60% (my estimate) of all electrical and electronic equipment and appliances imported to Cyprus come from Greece (where they use bipolar sockets) why on Earth do we continue Read more about Long Story Short #3: Uncommon sense[…]
As the head of your company you should ensure that you pick your subordinates carefully. No matter your intentions, everything they do will appear in their own subordinates’ eyes, as your own, personally approved actions. If you cannot trust your lieutenants’ judgement, you should either develop, or replace them. Yesterday.
Idiot is a Greek word. Many understand its wider modern meaning, but very few are aware of its origins. Understanding why and how an everyday word came to become offensive, will help you avoiding the pitfalls of being branded as one.