The Little Things

It's easy to get caught up in life. We all go about our daily routines and often forget how much the little things we do have an impact. I was recently reminded of how important it is to focus on the little things in our daily work. While we may not be told daily, or even often, the little things matter and often make the biggest impact.

What is your focus in your life or your work? I strive daily to be positive and have a positive impact on those around me. No matter what is going on behind the scenes, I make a conscious effort to lead with an upbeat, positive attitude. The environment we create makes a difference for everyone that "lives" in it or just visits for short periods of time. People that are happy and positive are motivated to work toward common goals and help those around them. It is important to me, to keep this focus.

In addition to leading with positivity, I focus on small details. I do this for the organization and because details make a difference to people. Some may think that some details aren't as important, or can take a back seat. In a school setting, everything is connected and one decision effects ten things that will come next. Details matter and efforts have to be made to focus on the smallest detail in our daily work.

One of the littlest things we do is making an extra effort. This is not easy and it is often overlooked. The average person is okay with status quo and fulfilling typical expectations. If you want more and expect more of those around you, you make an extra effort. An extra effort to be positive, to teach and lead, to develop relationships and to build something bigger around you.

Little things count, and it is important to keep our focus on them. Knowing that the little things we do make a difference is the only reminder we need.