My daughter’s dog, Lucy, frequently visits overnight. She’s enthusiastic and curious, and really fun to have around. But we often have this conversation in the mornings:
Lucy (while jumping all over me): It’s morning! The sun is up!! That means we can get up and do things!!!
Me (pulling blanket over my head): But the alarm didn’t go off yet. That means I can sleep 10 more minutes.
It seems like some people greet new beginnings with lots of exclamation points and are genuinely happy to jump in, while other people need to go more slowly. As leaders, we need to respond to both kinds of people.
That might mean having action steps ready for those who want to get started. We need to take advantage of the enthusiasm and channel it towards positive change. Or it might mean providing more information for people who want to consider things, and helping them adapt at their own pace.
Which sort of morning person are you when it comes to new beginnings at work? What has been useful when communicating with the other type?
Dee Anne Bonebright
Higher EDge 