As we leave November, I am experiencing a little shock that I can see this month in the rear view mirror. I am overwhelmed by the passage of time and the reality that no matter what I might consider, it is a very important asset that is not renewable. Days quickly turn into weeks with weeks proving how quickly a month can be spent. I often ask myself, how can I keep up? How can I get done all that I need to? Rarely is the answer dropped in my lap.


But what I do know, what I have experienced - is that much more can be done that one could possibly expect when each task is approached with clarity and an understanding of expectations and outcomes. While this is not always possible, gaining a significant understanding of the plan and what is hoped to be achieved as a result of executing said plan, is the only way to complete work assignments well.

Many haphazardly approach their day and its outline without much of a care as to the product or result of that day. I suppose this is easy to do when we become overwhelmed or are under-qualified to complete assigned or necessary work. You may or may not be familiar with the "Peter Principle." This concept states that sooner or later, certain individuals will be promoted to their level of incompetence. Remaining in that state - the state of incompetence - is not good for anyone, the employee nor the employer.



Who will rescue the incompetent? Of course, the competent will do the rescuing. This is usually how it works. Occasionally, the incompetent will ask for help or get some training and actually move from incompetent to competent. Unfortunately, this doesn't happen often enough. It might be possible that the competent could stage an intervention, but don't we already call this a performance review?


So, what would the opposite of the Peter Principle be? Would that be under-whelmed and over-qualified? I think not, given that those who fall victim to this understanding are unable to get anything done or move their company forward, the opposite would have to be the individual that is in just the right position - just the right place within a company. Fulfilling duties and task in a timely manner within or well-within assigned budgets, pleasing all parties, overcoming obstacles that appear too large, achieving significant return for their company..., the perfect employee. 


© by rayannethorn



by the way, the Colts are 11 - 0. I'm just saying.