You’re the new kid on the block. It’s exciting. Everyone loves most of your ideas. You’re valued, you’re on fire. With me, it was my first hit song and I noticed people were talking about me, introducing me around, appreciating my contributions with active praise and encouragement. Hopefully, you’ve been there in some way. Perhaps when you made your first sale, or contributed an idea that was used in an ad campaign, or found a way to streamline a client questionnaire, or improve a data entry system. And then gradually, you notice that your good work and great ideas are expected rather than celebrated and you feel….taken for granted. But inside you know you’re still the same exciting co-worker, employee or contributor you always were. Welcome to the team! We’re human and we like new stuff, toys, machines, lovers, pets and people.
I’ve been a bit in the dumps the past couple of weeks, coming off a period of heightened activity, travel and growth; now back in the office dealing with the less glamorous side of my business. And I’ve been down on myself. Last night, as I tossed and turned, I realized I’ve been taking myself for granted. If I were my own co-worker I’d be mad at myself, or at least be harboring some passive resentment! And so, at 2 am, I realized I needed to celebrate my own team success. My business has grown exponentially in the past twelve months and part of my current funk was not that I’m failing, but that I’m feeling overwhelmed because there’s now so much to do. Well that’s all good.
And so this morning, I’m celebrating my own team success. I’m treating myself like a new kid on the block, the coffee tastes better, the day has more potential, and the pros far outweigh the cons. There’s real value in this, primarily in increased productivity. I’ve already done more today at 9:50 am, than I did all day yesterday. So please – take time to celebrate your team’s success. Re-frame your employees or co-workers in the new-kid-on-the-block frame and see how much the energy level of your team goes up. This is team building you can do without leaving the office and without hiring me!