Perception isn't the only thing that commands reality...
I will go out on a limb and assume almost everyone has heard the saying "Perception is reality".
Hmmmm, this is about to become more of a philosophically charged segue than I anticipated but I think I can head it off before we go down a deep dark bunny hole — As much as perception can command reality, so can expectation. There you have it, not the smoothest transition, but a transition none the less.
Expectation: A case in point —
A meeting is held and it is decided that someone will finish a task by Friday. An expectation is created.
Because very few things exist in isolation, the task will allow further things to be done on the following Monday, which in turn will allow for activity on the Tuesday, Wednesday, et cetera... all of which is built on what was to be done the previous Friday. More often than not, advanced preparation is taking place in anticipation of the expectation; real work is being done and reality is being created due to this expectation. If the Friday task is completed then reality continues, but if it is not, reality is compromised and generally people aren't happy.
This is a very simple and linear example, and although we know the real world meanders much more, I don't think this makes the point any less valid.Expectations, once created are very real, and once created, need to be met. If they are not met, more often than not there are negative consequences that are also very real; another reality that expectations command I suppose. Theoretically speaking all expectations can be influenced, but in reality there are some you will have influence on, while others are thrust on you and influence is unlikely.
For those expectations thrust on you —
- Understand if you have any influence on the expectations (and if so, try to influence them).
- Understand the objectives behind the expectations.
- Understand the expectations in detail, including the context and the timeframes involved.
- Ensure you discuss and review resources needed.
- Clearly understand the impact of not meeting expectations.
- Work really, really hard to meet the expectations you have been given.
For those expectations you can influence see above, as well as —
- Engage in the development of the expectations... don't miss the opportunity to influence and even set expectations.
- Remember Murphy's Law... work a "hedge" into any schedules and deadlines because you never know what will happen.
- Remember the very popular motto, "Under promise, and over deliver".
And remember, if you are the one asked to set the date for the expectation, whatever you do, don't miss it — That is just adding insult to injury,
iamgpe
"
Articles from Graham🐝 Edwards
View blog“I’m quite easy going…” · A dear friend looked at me confused and said, “What are you talking about, ...
Recently I thought I had reached a level of wisdom that I could offer thoughts on a number of things ...
Upfront I will say this is a little self indulgent but so be it. · If I’m asked what I do, I would h ...
Related professionals
You may be interested in these jobs
-
0.67 FTE LTO
Found in: Jobillico Premium CA C2 - 3 days ago
ApplytoEducation Ajax, CanadaLTO POSTING - St. Catherine of Siena Catholic SchoolThe above noted School requires a 0.67 FTE LTO teacher to teach the following:0.04 FTE FSL (Grade 4 to FTE Curriculum CoverageEFFECTIVE DATE : October 02, 2023End Date: June 28, 2024 (subject to change due to an earlier return o ...
-
Registered Nurse
Found in: Talent CA C2 - 2 days ago
Southern Health-Santé Sud Manitoba, Canada Part timeThe Registered Nurse (RN)/Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) (Home Care Services, Personal Care Home and/or Transitional Care) applies the nursing process to support clients/residents/patients in achieving and maintaining their optimum level of health within a people-centered app ...
-
Sales Associate
Found in: beBee S2 CA - 2 weeks ago
PVH New Westminister, Canada Part timeTITLE: Sales Associate · REPORTS TO: Store Manager · JOB CLASSIFICATION: Hourly Non-Exempt · POSITION SUMMARY · Sales Associates are brand ambassadors responsible for creating an emotional connection between our customers and the brand. They consistently exceed expectations, prov ...
Comments
Graham🐝 Edwards
6 years ago #3
Thanks for the comment Simone Luise Hardt. hmmmmm... let me take a stab at this. First of all for me the hedge is getting access to two things... time and resources. If you can do the job in 5 days say you need 8 and secure more money and help than you need because it's always fun to say,"I've saved some money and I'm giving you back some of your time. If I interpret your symbols correctly: ≤ Things are not going as expected: Understand why, identify the issues, escalate clearly with solutions and resources needed, over communicate the situation, identify new timelines, don't make excuses, engage the team and others to help solve the issues ≥ Things are going better than expected: Communicate within the core team that things are going great, but remind everyone not to assume anything... motivate and celebrate, Understand new time frames and be cautious about being too optimistic, Start signalling any new dates when your certainty level is very high that you finish ahead of schedule = Things are going according to plan: keep doing what you are doing and continue to work to try and find some "hedge" to get some breathing room... it is never fun to finish at the "bell" In any of this I have found having regular operating mechanisms to review the situation, communicate and lead are important. I have also found success with a dashboard, and time and event schedule that works off of a simple "red light", "yellow light" and green light" format... after all everyone gets it, and easy to focus on issues. Have a great day, I hope I did well by you? :)
Graham🐝 Edwards
6 years ago #2
Thanks for the comment Sara Jacobovici
Sara Jacobovici
6 years ago #1