“Pie crust promises easily made and easily broken” Mary Poppins
Mary Poppins has been on my mind lately as they are soon to release the updated version. I can remember the many times watching this fun film as a child loving all the songs and adventure. Now as a mother and leadership developer I see Mary Poppins in a new light. Her character was a disciplined detail-oriented person who felt duty bound to perform her job as a nanny. She took pride in her title Mary Poppins practically perfect in every way.
Are we as Leaders to quick to make pie crust promises? There seems to be this possibility in many situations including networking events or PTA meetings. Although we may have the best interest at heart it is easy to become over leveraged in this demanding and fast paced world. I propose that we should be aware of our commitments for time, energy, and or finances to determine what resources we have available. Here are some simple things to consider in order to develop a strategy. Use this strategy to decide how you can be true to your word and still show up with a mindset of excellence.
Evaluate:
- Review your schedule and know your time limitations before networking, volunteering, or taking on new clients.
- Know what you can offer that would be of value to others that would fit into your time capabilities and skill set.
- Decide if saying yes would mean that you would be saying no to something more important or needed. Remember you cannot do everything and maintain a level of excellence.
There is such importance in showing up with a mind set of excellence in everything that you do. There is a limited number of hours in the day and we must recognize that when we choose to do a certain project or partnership, we will inevitably be saying no to something else. Know what you are good at that you can do well. Don’t be afraid to say no if you can not devote an appropriate amount of effort and time to the project. Remember being known for hard work and integrity is a reputation worth working for.
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