My best friend, Kevin Campbell, has many gifts. He is one of the best salesmen I have ever been around and he is the best evaluator of people and situations ever.
For several years, he has talked to me about working and living in “air-tight compartments”. Honestly, I never paid much attention to this idea. But recently, I shared with him how challenging our preparation is for the annual WorkMatters Chick-fil-A Leadercast. Once again, he said, ”air-tight compartments Dave”. This time, it stuck. It was just what I needed to hear.
I found myself sharing the idea with our WorkMatters team, then with my son who was going through finals in his freshman year in college, and finally with my nephew who works at Tyson Foods. That’s when I received this picture. His visual reminder of this important concept.
So what does it mean and how do you use it? It’s pretty simple. In our crazy busy life, identify those tasks or projects or high priorities, that you must focus on. Then, when it’s time to work on them…put them in an air-tight compartment. Totally focus JUST on that critical task. It may be a 15-minute task that is critical to execute, or it may be a three-day project for your boss or a major client.
This simple phrase, and the visual image that comes with it, helps me focus. It challenges me NOT to wander off on other things that need my attention, as well. It’s not fool-proof, but it is a great tool to help us do our work with excellence!
Love to hear your comments as you implement this idea.
Closing the gap between faith and work,
David
Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Ephesians 5:15-16
