Adios and Amen...

I know that the last day of this crazy year is finally here and tonight is the eve of the New Year… but it just doesn’t feel like it. I mean, other than the date, it just doesn’t feel like tomorrow is really going to be much different than today.  Maybe that’s because 2020 has so totally reshaped our thinking and expectations. That said, maybe our resolutions for 2021 should be a little less focused on stuff like losing weight (for instance) and more on our overall well-being; maybe a little less on achievement (for instance) and more on being content; and maybe a little less goal oriented (for instance) and more on just being open to great possibilities. After 2020, let’s be happy just to be ourselves in 2021. Let’s be grateful for good health and thankful that we’ve made it to another New Year’s Eve. And let’s resolve to use the lessons learned in 2020 to help us find joy, laughter and possibilities in 2021. And even though we all would like to forget 2020, let’s remember that we were able to adapt all year to the unexpected and unimaginable circumstances that befell us on our way to this New Year’s Eve. Feel good about that as you get ready to say goodbye to 2020 and proclaim your 2021’s resolutions today.

 

Mary Anne Radmacher is a writer, an artist, and conducts workshops on living a full, creative, and balanced life

Keep it simple...

I’m thinking about making resolutions for the New Year, trying to keep them simple and to the point. Like: nothing too complicated or dramatic or frivolous or meaningless to my family and friends and colleagues. After this past year, I’d like to enjoy the simple things in life that were missing in 2020, the things we used to take for granted but which didn’t fit into 2020’s safety and health guidelines. I’d like to be able to hang out with friends, feel comfortable going places, act impetuously every now and then, and not have to obsess about germs. But last year taught us the importance of keeping our resolutions updated and relevant: I pivoted pretty quickly last March and resolved to do all the things the experts recommended so my family and I could stay healthy and live to see 2021. With that in mind, I’m going to make a simple resolution for 2021: to resolve to practice all the things I need to do to stay healthy enough to be able to enjoy my family and friends and colleagues throughout all of 2021; and if things change, I’ll update them. And I’ll resolve to encourage my family and friends and colleagues to simply do the same. 2020 taught us that life can be simple and meaningful. Let’s all resolve to make some simple 2021 resolutions today.

 

Frédéric François Chopin (1810 – 1849): Polish composer and virtuoso pianist of the Romantic era

Here's to a better 2021...

New Year’s resolutions are tough to come up with, and even harder to live up to. Especially when propensities – the things we love to do, clash with principles – the things we should live up to. Maybe that clash is the reason so many resolutions fail: we’re full of hope when we make them, but maybe lacking a little stick-to-it-ive-ness when it comes to following through. It’s best to set modest goals that are well thought out – you may want to stretch a little, but in general it’s probably best to make them something you think you can do. Give them a try, figure out how to get into a rhythm, and then just keep going. And don’t worry if you miss a beat or fall a little short… there’s nothing stopping you from restarting. These are promises you make to yourself; the means to reconciling any doubts or weaknesses are within your power.  Just be honest with yourself, be realistic with your goals, and do the best you can. Remember: anything is almost always better than nothing; when the race is against yourself, you can’t lose. After all, 2021’s resolutions have to be easier than the ups and downs we all had to do to stay healthy and safe in 2020.  Make some resolutions that will be good for you and 2021 today.

 

Charlotte Brontë (1816 – 1855): English novelist and poet – the oldest of three sisters whose novels became classics of English literature

Let the holiday spirit be your guide...

Last week and this are what my father used to call “short weeks”: four-day school and work weeks shortened by one of our national holidays. A week with a day-off, or maybe a long weekend, to celebrate and do something special. Traditionally, none was more exciting than the New Year’s week, the time when people began to reflect on the year drawing to a close and think and plan and make resolutions for the new one ahead. Normally we would have been excited about doing that for 2021, but 2020 has dampened this year’s celebration, almost to the point of overlooking the wonders and opportunities the new year might bring.  But as is often the case, if you reflect on and follow what you’re passionate about it will guide you to your destination. For my family, we are passionate about staying healthy and safe so that we can enjoy all that will be when we are able to return to some kind of normal. For me, I am passionate about writing these daily messages and looking forward to my thirteenth year at this. And most people I know are passionately resolving to redouble connections with colleagues and friends as soon as these new vaccines make it safe and possible.  Even as this pandemic continues to surge, all last week I heard from friends wishing me a Happy and Healthy Holiday – some things never change. So, whatever you’re passionate about, I hope that the coming year allows you to find your dreams and destinations. Enjoy the start of your shortened holiday week today. 

 

Diane Sawyer (born 1945): American television broadcast journalist

Get in the spirit...

“The fact that you can only do a little is no excuse for doing nothing.” John le Carre

 

In fact, it’s the best reason for doing a lot of little somethings. A little something here and there adds up to a lot of holiday cheer, good will, and lasting memories. In good times we always put a little something in the Salvation Army Santa’s kettle in front of grocery stores; in these crazy times, it’s more important than ever to donate there or to other charitable organizations to help those hit hard by this pandemic. Look around: there are charities just dying for little donations. Of money, food, clothing, household goods, or time. They’re everywhere. So there really is no excuse for doing nothing. In the spirit of this holiday season, give a little something today.

 

                                                Merry Christmas

 

David John Moore Cornwell (1931 – 2020): better known by his pen name John le Carré, was a British author of espionage novels.

Tis the night before Christmas...

"It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving." Mother Teresa

 

Hanukkah and Christmas and Kwanzaa are bringing the holiday spirit to our Covid-weary world. We could see things as being bleak and hopeless like Scrooge or open our hearts and lift our spirits like happy celebrants – the choice is ours so let’s feel good about all that we have and love. Every year at this time I am filled with great memories: of my childhood neighbors who made and gave out beautiful boxes of colorful ribbon candy to everyone in the neighborhood on Christmas morning; of the tree we always decorated on Christmas morning because it was also my orthodox Jewish father’s birthday; of visiting my wife’s oldest sister who had 13 kids (his, hers and theirs) and watching our daughter’s eyes grow as big as the ornaments on their huge tree when she saw all the presents that were under it; or how the streetlights looked all decorated and twinkling in the snow that often fell during the holidays of my youth. Holidays are about remembering and celebrating the little traditions that make life so wonderful, even more so in this crazy pandemic year. And about how much love we put into giving.  As you celebrate this year, remember that life itself is a celebration… so, count your blessings today!

 

Mother Mary Teresa Bojaxhiu (1910 – 1997): Albanian-Indian Roman Catholic nun and missionary who founded the Missionaries of Charity

Behold the great conjunction...

“We can’t heal the world today. But we can begin with a voice of compassion, a heart of love, and an act of kindness.” Mary Davis

 

This week, in the midst of the worst pandemic in a century, Jupiter and Saturn came closer together than they’ve been in centuries. Pictures of both – crowded hospitals and twinkling stars, flashed across our screens, an unlikely combination of sights and events. Like many, I took time to look up at the nighttime skies and see what they’re calling the great conjunction, and it put things in perspective. We’re all struggling with Covid-19 and trying to stay positive and motivated in spite of the realization that we can’t heal the world today. But then, that movement of the stars in the heavens above was an indication that things are still proceeding in a natural fashion. It’s like the good with the bad, the yin and yang, of nature. Looking at those stars, I realized that we each can take responsibility for the two square feet of reality we control – that’s the space around our own two feet. Within that small piece of the universe, we all can begin with a voice of compassion, a heart of love, and act of kindness. At home, at work, and in our communities. That's what we can control and do in our own lives. So, in the spirit of this holiday season, let’s all be compassionate, loving, and kind today.   

 

Mary Anne Davis (born 1954): Irish social entrepreneur, activist and Chief Executive Officer of Special Olympics International 

Carpe diem...

“Right now, a moment is fleeting by! ... We must become that moment.” Paul Cezanne

 

There are 24 hours, 1440 minutes, and 86,400 seconds in a day… all of them fleeting. The key to life is not to waste too many of them… because once they’re gone you can’t get any one of them back. I started worrying about lost time when I was a kid, and it has always bothered me. Maybe that’s why I’ve always wanted to get involved in things, to be in on the action, to make the best use of my time. Fast forward to now, in the midst of this pandemic, when we have more time on our hands than normal: a regular conversation with friends nearly always includes talk about how we’re seemingly not doing much and yet we’re not sure where the time goes.  We spend a lot of our time worrying about what’s going on and the rest trying to focus on what to do next: giving folks Covid-19 fatigue. Everyone seems to have it, trying to figure out where these last 10 months went, how to get thru this, and make good use of our time. That’s why we need empathetic leaders: listening and understanding, giving clear direction and following up to see how things went, genuinely caring about our well-being, and creating a sense of safety and security in these uncertain times. Leaders like that help their people become each moment.  Be that kind of leader today.

 

Paul Cézanne (1839 – 1906): French artist and Post-Impressionist painter whose work laid the foundations of art in the 20th century

The sky's the limit...

In order to be successful at any endeavor, you must be both open to what is and curious about what might be. It’s easy to continually do things you’ve always done – that’s a comfortable and safe way forward. But it rarely results in the kinds of changes and improvements that keep you or your company at the ‘head-of-the-pack’. Imagine what the original US astronauts were going through as they stepped farther into the unknown – they had to be really curious about what was out there. People like that have to be all-in, participating in every aspect of their unfamiliar exploits. In our own small way, the team working on the opening of The Mirage had to be more curious than anxious and that’s what kept us moving forward. And everyone living through this pandemic has to be curious about the new vaccines rather than just continuing to live as we have been for the past 11 months. Things like this involve faith in people’s collective ability to learn, to adapt to change, to continue on in spite of disappointments and hardships, and to believe that success is within our grasp. The human spirit for adventure is boundless and curiosity is what fuels it: don’t be afraid to reach for the stars today.

 

Eugene Cernan (1934 – 2017): American astronaut, naval aviator, electrical engineer, aeronautical engineer, and fighter pilot

Get to the point...

One of the smartest things I did professionally was hire an employee communications director: she taught me the value of internal corporate communications and how to write.  To this day, I hear her instructions every time I start to write one of these messages: keep it simple, short, clear, and to the point. Companies spend a lot of time and money on external communications – PR, promotions, and advertising; but if they really believe that their employees are their most important assets, then it stands to reason to put that same kind of time and effort into communicating internally. You want to get information to your customers – tell your employees and they’ll tell your customers. If you need to make changes to your policies or plans (I bet you did that a lot this year) – tell your employees simply and clearly: do that and they’ll sense your sincerity and follow you; don’t, and whatever culture you have will unravel. Doing that creates trust, respect, loyalty, and a team mindset. Before you say or write anything, read it back to yourself, or to someone who doesn’t know anything about the subject matter.  If they get it – good; if not, keep at it. Until it’s simple, short, clear, and to the point. Then you’ll have the tremendous power of effective communications at your fingertips today.

 

Frederick Jay "Rick" Rubin (born 1963): American record produce and president of several major music labels

Know when to hold and when to fold ....

“If you want to grow old as a pilot, you've got to know when to push it, and when to back off.” Chuck Yeager

 

When I broke into the gaming business, Kenny Rogers was playing the showroom at the Golden Nugget in Atlantic City; it seemed apropos since his hit song at the time was The Gambler. At about that same time, the movie The Right Stuff was released: it portrayed the original US astronauts learning to fly faster, higher, and farther than any American had ever gone before. The themes from both exemplified several aspects of the American spirit that many find attractive and compelling: daring and bravado, dedication and commitment, hard work and fun, challenges and overcoming obstacles, excellence and winning. Life, like movies and song, looks for many of those qualities in its leaders and heroes, and we’re influenced by what we hear, read and see in them. The best leaders are those who rise to challenges they face, especially this past year. They understand what motivates employees and what worries them, they know how to talk and when to listen, they know how and when to manage and instruct and when to  coach and mentor, they know when to give and when to take, and they know when to push it and when to back off. Some of the best leadership training comes from watching leaders you admire: if you’ve got one in your sights, pay attention, ask them questions, listen carefully to what they say and do, and work at developing the skills you see in them. Study and learn about effective leadership today.

 

Charles Elwood “Chuck” Yeager (1923 – 2020) was a United States Air Force officer, flying ace, and record-setting test pilot

We've much to be thankful for...

They started giving the Coronavirus vaccine to front-line health care workers today. Here in Las Vegas, the first one was given to an ICU nurse: that’s so poignant and appropriate. Throughout this pandemic, I’ve marveled at and been grateful for all the people working the front lines, giving 100% every day without knowing how things would work out. People like a friend who’s a check out cashier at Smiths, a neighbor who’s an emergency room physician in a local hospital, cousins who are nurses in hospitals back east, a sister-in-law working in a rehabilitation center, nephews and nieces who are correctional officers, police officers, fire fighters, and EMTs, and so many others. I know how fearful and careful I am when going out, which for me is voluntary. For them, it’s their job and they’re dedicated enough to go there every day and give it their all, in spite of the dangers they face (and most probably fear). When it started, we weren’t sure how this pandemic would play out, but for those who’ve been giving 100% on those front lines, getting the vaccine first will help lift their spirits and is the best way we can thank them. Being a hero is not a job anyone applies for – it’s a status bestowed upon people by all who are thankful. You know who they are: be sure to let them know how much you appreciate their bravery and dedication today.

 

Larry Bird (born 1956): American former professional basketball player, coach and executive in the National Basketball Association (NBA)

Be here now...

The spiritual teacher Ram Dass believed that instead of being focused on what happened yesterday or what might happen tomorrow, you should simply be here, now.  Martin Luther King, Jr. took it one step further when he spoke of the ‘fierce urgency of now’ and each person’s responsibility to deal with what’s needed, now. These concepts roughly translate into the world of work, when we encourage employees to be in the moment… to focus on the customers and projects that are right in front of us. We often get caught up in the past or in hoping for the future and overlook the challenges and opportunities of the present. But Dickinson suggests that although we have memories of the past and imaginings about the future, we only ever experience now. So, consider applying that concept to this pandemic: don’t wish for things as they used to be or as they will be when it’s all over; rather, make the best of the unprecedented time we have right now. Like: now might be a good time for reading a book, going for a walk, writing a letter, calling to a friend, talking to your employees, coaching someone, mentoring someone, learning something new, or any number of other things that, when this is all over, you might look back on and think that was something productive to have done. Don’t waste time on anything that isn’t right here and now… in fact, make the most of all of your Nows. Try doing that today.

 

Emily Elizabeth Dickinson (1830 – 1886): American poet. Little known during her life, she has since been regarded as one of the most important figures in American poetry.

 

Gimme some truth...

Honesty is something we each, alone, control. We need to practice it internally to help guide our actions and externally to be credible. Nobody else can do it for you or make up for it if you’re not. It’s the thing people will appreciate and remember about you if you are and think and talk ill of you if you’re not. People may trust and respect you for lots of reasons, but they never will (or should) if you’re willing to deceive yourself or them. These days we’re inundated with too much information, much of which is barely truthful – that’s why fact checking is such a big business; unfortunately (and maybe because of that) most people basically think everyone’s lying. The Bible tells us that “In the street of the blind, the one-eyed man is called the Guiding Light”; in this time of persistent deceptions, those who speak honestly from the heart should be listened to.  And just like the responsibility to be honest, we each are responsible to discover the information we can rely upon. It may take some time and it certainly isn’t quick or easy, but that’s got to be better than being a fool for ignorantly following one.   Find the right people and friends that are honest with you today.

 

John Lennon (1940 – 1980): English singer, songwriter and peace activist who co-founded the Beatles

Watch out!

I read that there’s a hidden Fourth Wave of the pandemic that may be about to hit. The next few months could bring a level of anxiety, depression and overall stress to what many have experienced so far. This may be because it’s dark outside and we’re stuck inside, or that we’re isolated from family, friends and colleagues; or it may be because politics has added to our stress, the economy continues to struggle, winter and the holidays are coming, and this virus is still raging on. Whatever, it used to be that some time off could help cure things like this… but now it’s probably going to take a more concerted effort to update corporate policies and support systems to help people cope with these issues. You may want to consider adding mental health hotlines to your benefits’ plans (to deal with these and other PTSD and acrophobia-like issues that may arise), expanding sick pay policies to include mental health breaks, continuing to coach your managers to ensure they have appropriate levels of awareness and empathy to deal with these issues, and developing creative team-building exercises to address the political polarization that could spill over into the workplace. Leaders who may get exhausted just thinking about all of this will need to shake that off and put on their thinking caps. Because the best way to prepare for what’s coming tomorrow is to start doing some creative planning today.

 

H. Jackson Brown Jr. (born 1941): American author best known for his inspirational book, Life's Little Instruction Book

Come together, right now...

It’s common for sport’s professionals to watch each other’s backs: that’s what team players do.  The people you work with can and should be that way too. Like many, I spent a lot of time at work and developed countless trusting and loyal relationships there. As much as we’d like to think that happens naturally, the truth is it takes work. You have to be open and transparent: speaking your mind openly and respectfully so that others know where you’re coming from and going. You have to be a good listener: to make sure you hear and understand how others are feeling. You have to be a team player: people want to know you’re ‘pulling your weight’ equally and effectively. You must be flexible: things are always changing, and everyone has to ‘go with the flow’. And as a leader, you must manage and nurture this level of camaraderie on so many levels (business, personal, and safety): it doesn’t ‘happen on its own’.  These aren’t just cliches… they’re the things that make organizations and people watch out for each other and work together effectively. And while it’s certainly easier to do when everyone’s working in one place, it can also happen during these WFH times. In every setting it takes commitment and dedication to create that sense of teamwork and responsibility: leaders are central to ‘connecting all the dots’. Keep your eyes and hearts open and look out for those who look out for others today.

 

Conor Anthony McGregor (Irish: Conchúr Antóin Mac Gréagóir; born 1988): Irish professional mixed martial artist, boxer, and former champion

Empathy matters...

This quote is the key to creating a workplace culture of excellence. Not wage bands or benefit plans. Nor paid time off policies. Understanding, empathy and caring are what create employee trust, respect, satisfaction, and loyalty.  Simple as that. Which is why I find it hard to believe that so few companies get it or practice it. It doesn’t cost money, only a little time. It works in good times, which, in our lifetimes, have been most of the time.  And it works even more in bad times: like the times we’ve been experiencing for the last 9 months. So, before you start your day or send out an email or make a decision, put yourself in their shoes (whoever you’re leading): if they don’t get what you mean, you haven’t done it as well or effectively as you could or should have. Teddy Roosevelt once said: “nobody cares how much you know until they know how much you care”: that pretty much sums up the essence of being an effective leader. We often can’t change what’s going on, but we can change how we act. Be genuinely understanding, empathetic and concerned to keep the train on the rails today.

 

Rob Fess: Co-founder of Apex Trading

Please stop arguing...

There’s so much in the news that we could be talking and arguing about… but we’re still debating about wearing masks. The daily number of new Covid-19 cases and deaths is at an all-time high, hospitals are again full, and front-line workers are more exhausted and at-risk than ever. And yet roughly half the US population doesn’t believe that wearing masks can and will reverse this surge and allow us and the economy to operate under some kind of new normal conditions.  Those truths are incontrovertible. But, 265 days into this pandemic, there it is. Now, hold that thought and think about this: in the midst of all this, Native American casinos have mostly re-opened and diligently enforced wearing masks and social distancing, and they have controlled the spread of this virus to manageable and acceptable levels. That too is incontrovertible. So, if you want to keep your business open to the extent practicable and be able to go out of your home in relative safety, then wear a mask, keep your distance, and wash your hands. And preach those safety practices to your family, friends, colleagues, employees, and customers. It’s as simple and incontrovertible as that. Do that and we will survive the next few months until these new vaccines are readily available to all. Don’t, and who knows how many more will get sick or die. Those are our incontrovertible choices today.

 

Sir Winston Churchill (1874 – 1965): British statesman, army officer, writer and Prime Minister of Great Britain during WWII

Find your inner strength...

 

Last week’s news of Tony Hsieh’s death was sad…the rest of the story was even sadder. He was an immensely successful and charismatic entrepreneur whose life inspired others: the culture he created at Zappos was based on a fun work experience and excellent customer service. Outwardly, he appeared to have it all but, like many successful and driven people, there was a dark side that ultimately led to his demise. The workplace has always been filled with degrees of obsession that can and often lead to depression.  This happens more than we want to admit – many know that my workaholic tendencies led to a breakdown in the mid-90s as I drove myself to do more and be more during the planning process for Bellagio. Fortunately for me, my boss recognized the symptoms and helped guide me towards a path of recovery.  Without that kind of empathetic help, I’m not sure I would have addressed my issues or gotten better. It sounds like Tony lacked that kind of strong and caring hand to point him towards what he needed. In the midst of this pandemic, there are countless others facing despair and depression: family, friends, and business leaders need to know the signs and let them know it’s okay to need and seek help. Pathways to recovery are so very important in helping people find that something inside themselves that is greater than any obstacle. Help people believe in themselves today.

Christian Daa Larson (1874– 1954): American New Thought leader and teacher, as well as a prolific author of metaphysical and New Thought books

Truth shall set us free...

The truth sometimes hurts. Like when someone tells you a truth that you don’t want to hear.  Or when you have to admit the truth, knowing that it might embarrass or hurt. Like saying this virus is a hoax or that following safety practices to protect yourself and others don’t matter. The doctors said this pandemic was going to get worse… and it has. They said limit travel and gatherings, and millions of people ignored that for Thanksgiving… that’s probably going to make it even worse soon. And now that a vaccine is close, some think there’s no need to continue wearing masks or socially distancing… they’re wrong. The number of cases and people in hospitals and deaths are spiking… like they said they would. Listen to the experts, follow their guidance at home and work, and coach your family and friends and employees to do the same. A little honesty and diligence about that now will help flatten the curve again as we wait for the vaccine. It’s hard to keep practicing safety after all this time, but we’ve got to fight off the Covid-19 fatigue and keep going a little bit longer. The danger is worse now than ever. Period! Now is the time for honesty and courage and diligence and compliance.  You won’t regret that today. Period.

Taylor Swift (born 1989): American Singer and Songwriter

How's it going...Part 1...

We’ve all been affected by Covid-19: some people handle it better than others. My daughter is a professional woman and since last March has had to balance that with managing home schooling for her two daughters. We’ve all read about situations like that, but unless you’re working and have kids, you might not realize what its like. Today they spent the day at our house and even though I’ve known about this for months, it didn’t hit me until today what’s that’s really like. My daughter got the kids set up, they logged into class, took breaks, and had virtual after school activities and lessons. All the while their mom was working virtually too, seemingly keeping one eye on work and the other on them. Grandpa didn’t have much to do but watch from the sidelines and play along during the breaks, but still, I was tired out at the end of my first day around this routine.  You probably have employees doing something similar: are you aware, empathetic, and supportive; have you talked with them about the dual roles they’re playing and how it’s affecting them; and have you altered your style and policies to adapt to this phenomenon? It’s time we all got hip to what young families are experiencing as they juggle their lives and responsibilities during this pandemic. It’s time we all helped them see some possibilities rather than letting them feel the weight of these circumstances alone. Do your part today.

Oprah Winfrey (born 1954): American talk show host, television producer, actress, author, and philanthropist

It's down to you and me baby...

When you’re wrong, you know it. There’s no use denying it, especially to yourself. And probably not to others either. It’s been my experience that denials only prolong the reckoning and compound the effort to make things right. Like with this pandemic: as it rages, leaders - of families, businesses and communities, need to reinforce now more than ever the need for people to do what’s right: as in wearing masks, keeping an appropriate distance, and washing their hands. But the real responsibility is on each of us to do those things – every time, all the time. Because if we don’t, the painful truth will be that the trouble that ensues will be our fault, nobody else’s. You own and control your destiny: that’s a given.  But because you own and control the destiny of others, you need to do the right thing and practice these simple safety measures. If you don’t, and someone else suffers, then that will be on you, and no one else. You ready to live with that? So, talk this out with those you’re closest to or responsible for. Make a plan, stick to it, and help everyone survive until the vaccine is available. That’s not too much longer.  That shouldn’t be too hard. So, just do it. And don’t kid yourself if you don’t. Be honest with yourself and live up to your responsibilities today. 

Sophocles (c. 497/6 – winter 406/5 BC): The most celebrated of three ancient Greek tragedians in the city-state of Athens whose plays have survived 

Liar, liar, pants on fire...

An old boss once told me that the difference between a good manager and a great one is his or her ability to communicate. With that in mind, my consulting partner and I just finished recording several new online training courses for managers and supervisors and they’re all about the knowledge and skills needed to communicate effectively. One of the basic premises of these courses is that what we say and do are clear and consistent – that’s how trust is formed.  So, it was particularly poignant that we were recording these courses in the midst of all the campaign communications that were occurring. Most of those were highly partisan and appeared to be less about the truth than about staying on point. Leaders in all facets of our lives should know that communications and actions must be clear and truthful and that there are consequences if they’re not. Maybe politicians can get away with partisan obfuscation, but company leaders are rightfully held to a higher standard: their words and actions matter. In business, employees and customers are always attuned to the clarity and truthfulness of what they’re being told and, when either is missing, they vote with their feet. If you want your employees and customers to stick with you, remember to clearly say what you mean and mean what you say today.

Andrew Carnegie (1835 – 1919): Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist who made his fortune in the steel industry and gave 90% of it away to charity

Buyer beware...

I love this time of year… normally. The holidays, family, good cheer… normally. But most people I know are worried this year about the surging pandemic and the uncertainty about whether and how to celebrate. And how it’s getting in the way of their shopping: I read that Black Friday sales in brick-and-mortar stores were down, but that online shopping was up 22%.  As you probably know, there’s a dark side to online shopping: every time you look at or buy something online, internet tracking bots then bombard your email, FB page or other online activities with lots more stuff just like it. So much so, it rattles your brain.  Good thing then that while biology gave you that brain, your life experiences can turn it into a mind, one that hopefully can sort through all the noise and hype and still make good buying decisions.  Full disclosure here: I buy some of the mostly useless or unneeded stuff that’s pitched at me by these internet sales practices. With so many people working from home this year, it stands to reason that, like me, they’re spending some of their work time shopping online. That may be an interesting topic for one of your upcoming staff meetings: comparing notes, exchanging stories and letting your team vent a little about their worries this holiday season, showing empathy for what they’re going through. Just a thought as we continue the holiday shopping season today.

Jeffrey Eugenides (born 1960): American novelist and short story writer 

Keep on truckin'...

Tis the morning after the weirdest Thanksgiving. Like always, I vowed not to eat too much, and just like always, I did. But unlike always, there was no crowd around the table. Maybe on Zoom, but not in person. And like everything else in this Covid-19 year, it was different. We’ve all learned to creatively adapt in so many ways – meetings, school, family gatherings, casual dinners with friends: they’ve all changed in ways we never would have imagined. But it’s okay.  Because we adapt. We keep on changing and go on living. So, the morning after the weirdest Thanksgiving, I’m still, or maybe more, thankful for all that I have: friends, family, health, and the prospect of a new tomorrow. It’s good to go on living today.

Adeline Virginia Woolf (1882 – 1941): English writer, considered one of the more important modernist 20th century authors 

Happy Thanksgiving...

 “It's not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them, that is the true measure of our Thanksgiving.” W.T. Purkiser

Count your blessings today; use them tomorrow as a blessing for others. It’s not what we get or have, but what we give: that is the true measure of ourselves and our Thanksgiving.

 

                    Have a happy and meaningful Thanksgiving today!

 

Westlake Taylor Purkiser (1910–1992): American preacher, scholar, and author in the Church of the Nazarene.

Make sure you care...

My wife and I have been seeing a highly recommended doctor whose practice is so poorly run that we regularly have to wait several hours in dangerously crowded offices before being seen. We realize that Covid-19 may have affected their staffing, but it shouldn’t have cancelled the basic principles of good service… like acknowledging long wait times or being empathetic. This week’s nearly 4-hour wait was the last straw – we walked out and went looking for another doctor. Uncaring service often portends poor quality, and the day any of us settles for less, especially from a medical professional, is the day we will get less. I’ve worked in customer service, so I know that while good service takes training, practice and focus, it’s not rocket science. Doctor’s offices, like restaurants, hotel front desks, airline check in counters, and TSA lines know exactly how many people they can expect at any given time… hey, they book or schedule them, so they know. Given that advantage, making people wait in those situations is especially galling. Whether using actual schedules or trend analyses, businesses and their leaders should make it their business to get this stuff right. Getting it wrong is often less a sign of ignorance or lack of planning than it is a result of not caring. Don’t let your business fall into that latter category today.

Iman Abdulmajid (born 1955): Somali fashion model, actress and entrepreneur, a former muse of several famous designers, and widow of English rock musician David Bowie

 

Know your history to prepare for your future...

In a previous message I mentioned working for the Irvine Company and opening their Resort at Pelican Hill.  That spectacular project’s architectural theme was based on a European style derived from and inspired by the designs of the Venetian architect Andrea Palladio (1508–1580). The types of windows, pediments, and bridges found in that style were studiously followed on that project, but the amenities they provided were the latest state-of-the-art concepts. In any project, it’s good to have a sense of history while looking forward and implementing the kinds of services that focus on today’s customer preferences and expectations. The leadership team on Pelican Hill’s project studiously blended both: that meant being true to the theme while also hiring the right people based on competency models, designing laser-focused training components to prepare the staff for outstanding performance, and using innovative employee relations strategies designed to maximize employee and guest satisfaction. And it’s especially important to communicate this vision to your team and inspire them to connect their goals with yours. It may seem impossible with today’s WFH practices, but Covid-19 won’t be around forever: once it’s behind us, your employees will remember how you treated and lead them during this pandemic and, if done right, they’ll reward you with renewed energy and inspiration. That’s how to look both back and forward today.

Dame Anna Wintour (born 1949): British-American journalist, editor-in-chief of Vogue and artistic director for Condé Nast, Vogue's publisher

Culture matters...

I read recently that Boing received FAA approval to again start flying their new 737 Max airliner, grounded in March 2019 for safety issues that led to 2 crashes. While lifting the grounding order, the FAA said the airplane maker has more to do as it works to improve its safety culture.  Companies big and small struggle to create a culture of excellence, without which, quality and innovation (and in this case safety) suffer. Leaders of every organization should assess their culture, their commitment to it, and ways in which it consistently and effectively cascades throughout their organizations. That takes vision, good planning, disciplined implementation, clear benchmarks and measures, continuous learning, clear accountabilities, personal and organizational integrity, AND effective communications… all of which are the basic tenets and foundations of good organizations. And all of these things have to be in place before any organization can hit its stride: Boeing, as good as they are, lost sight of this. If you want to be innovative and successful, decide what you want your culture to be, ask good questions, be self-critical, and never cut corners.  To recover, Boing used persistence to turn an embarrassing and costly failure into an extraordinary achievement: they went back to basics, ate some humble pie, and re-established a culture of innovation and excellence. Whatever you’re working on – big or small, in the best of times or in these challenging Covid-19 times, be persistent in the pursuit of your goals today.

Matt Biondi (born 1965): Olympic Medalist, Professional Swimmer

Get to work...

As kids growing up in the 50s and 60s, music was a big part of our lives: I got a guitar for my 12^th birthday and have been playing ever since. Playing in bands paid for college and added a whole different dimension to my education: it added inspiration to the world of formal book-learning and taught me the wonder of creating new music while playing music in bands. Later in life, those same skills served me and my colleagues well when opening hotels. There, the drive to find better processes was discovered while working with legacy practices and philosophies: we knew that just because something had always been done a certain way was no excuse to keep doing it, especially if better methods could be discovered. In the mid 80s we had few computers and, as we learned more about what they could do, we began to discover ways to use them to re-invent what we’d always done. And as they say, the rest is history. But time never stands still, and today people are still finding inspiration with what others had created: whether working on-site or from home, people continue to find newer and better and more exciting innovations. Use your time wisely when working – whether in coffee shops or on shop floors; keep your mind open to being inspired by the things you see and do.  The wonders of tomorrow are found in the things we’re doing today.

Henri Émile Benoît Matisse (1869 – 1954): French artist, known for both his use of color and his fluid and original draughtsmanship 

Think about where you're going and how you'll there...

So, here I am writing about imagination and how that can lead to great things, yet the news of the day keeps blaring in the other room about partisan political discord and record-setting numbers of new cases of Covid-19. How can anyone dream of the future or imagine creating new things in this kind of environment? It’s affecting the productivity and creativity of people working from home and on-site, the education of young people, and the sense of security and well-being that we’re all used to and crave. Forget politics and pandemics: fear and fatigue are the real challenges that leaders of businesses, communities and families are dealing with today. With all that’s going on, remember that real people are dealing with these real issues: now is the time to double down on helping them to stay focused on how they can get through each day safely and successfully. Listen to their worries, give them support and empathy, engage them in activities and projects to keep them focused and positive, nurture their hopes, and encourage them to balance their time between work and life. Covid-19 fatigue is real and much as we’d all like to move on, it’s lurking in the shadows. Now’s the time to practice your coaching skills to help re-fire their dreams and imaginations: without that we’ll go nowhere today.

Carl Sagan (1934 – 1996): American astronomer, planetary scientist, cosmologist, astrophysicist, astrobiologist, and author

Imagine something positive...

Okay… enough (at least for a little while) with writing about the pandemic: let me try to again restart focusing these daily messages on topics related to corporate (and personal) values. If these were normal times, I’d be writing this week about the topic of excellence… and imagination is certainly a big part of that. As you may be aware, most of my professional career was spent opening imaginative resorts and I had a front-row seat to watch and work with some great dreamers on those projects. The volcanos, pirate ships, and dancing waters at the Las Vegas projects I worked on were spectacularly imaginative and being around those things was a sure-fire way to make anyone think outside the box: I probably wouldn’t have dared to dream about online applications and paperless systems if I wasn’t in that environment. From first-hand experience I can tell you that imagination is a glorious exercise, and it affords great satisfaction. To look around at the things you’re doing and imagine how some of them could be better, and what advantages that might create for improving efficiency, productivity, and employee and customer satisfaction can be very exciting and motivating. Every one of us, in every business (and in our personal lives too), have countless opportunities to dream about creating improvements. Break them down into bite-sized pieces, study the heck out of all the possibilities, and give one a shot: improvements in the pursuit of excellence are worth the effort.  That’s how great things get done. So, fire up your imagination today.

Paul Thomas Mann (1875 – 1955): German novelist, short story writer, social critic, philanthropist, essayist, and the 1929 Nobel Prize in Literature laureate

R.e.s.p.e.c.t.

In business and life, at work or play, people don’t really have to give you anything. But in business, if you plan well and work hard, people might give you their loyalty as customers or employees: it’s a two-way proposition. And in life, if you play by the rules with a good set of values, you’ll be rewarded with lifelong friends. Customers and friends don’t come easy, so show your appreciation in the things you say and do, and the way you act. Let the Golden Rule be your guide. So, in these excessively dangerous and expanding Covid-19 times, we hope people will give you the respect and act responsibly by wearing a mask and practice social distancing; again, they don’t have to, so thank those that do. And don’t forget those frontline workers in the stores where we all go for the things we need – they probably don’t want to be there now that the virus is surging again. So, thank them too. At the end of the day, nobody has to be kind, caring, trusting and respectful to others so, when they are, acknowledge them. That’s a simple think that can make a big difference. Give a little appreciation today.

Aretha Louise Franklin (1942 – 2018): American singer, songwriter, actress, pianist, and civil rights activist

Here we go again...

In the past few weeks, I’ve been writing about personal and corporate values, figuring it was time to stop focusing only on the leadership challenges of Covid-19. But given this latest surge in cases, it seems like a good time to again focus on this pandemic. Nobody wants to talk about lockdowns but there are more cases now than at any time since last March. Nobody wants to impact jobs and the economy but unless this wildfire-like spread is brought under control that is exactly what might happen. I realize that we’re all tired of doing whatever we thought was needed but it seems those basic safety precautions are needed now more than ever. Politicians can’t enforce safety although some are talking about policing and fining violators; don’t put that on law enforcement. Corporate leaders are best situated to articulate and enforce safety messages that are appropriate for their workplaces: they need employees and customers, and the best way to keep both is to do what business leaders think is plausible.  Because it’s in their best interest. Set your mind right about this and the rest will come naturally; use your common sense and your employees and customers will reward you with their trust and loyalty. Masks and social distancing – where and how they work for your business and situation, are the best ways to flatten the curve again. Set your mind to making that happen starting today.

 

Ray Charles Robinson (1930 – 2004): American singer, songwriter, pianist, and composer. He was often referred to as "The Genius", and was blinded during childhood due to glaucoma

Sometimes you win, sometimes you learn...

Most of us remember a time we were disappointed… at work, in life, while playing games and in other situations. I had more than a few in my 25 years at Wynn, but because there are so many examples that remind us to keep going, I did and I’m sure you did too. Most disappointments are personal and kept inside… but some are so public that they can’t be ignored. Promotions at work are one example: one person gets the nod, and several don’t… but no matter how they feel, the one selected is congratulated by all. I marvel at tennis pros who are out there alone, and teams that get to the final and no farther: it hurts to lose so publicly and yet most shake it off, learn from that experience, and use that knowledge to spur them on the next time. And I can’t imagine what it’s like to run for public office: this year’s presumed Presidential winner got more votes than any before him, and so did the runner up. Mind you, I didn’t say loser. Because in life there are no losers. Those who don’t win today should never let their head hang down or give up and sit down and grieve. They must find another way to continue on, to play another day. Because the next best thing to playing and winning is playing and losing[1]. Think about that today.

Leroy Robert "Satchel" Paige (1906 – 1982): American Negro League (ANL) and Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher who is notable for his longevity in the game

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[1] From the song “The Lucky One”, written and performed by Alison Krauss and Union Station