Every day, I have the same question lingering in the back of my brain. How am I adding value and making a difference at HORNE—both internally and externally? This is a question I wrestle with regardless of self-evaluations and alignment conversations. Those just prompt us to quickly put pen to paper and formalize the question. But that constant lingering is why I’ve challenged myself to write this very blog. And, when I did, came to some very basic conclusions that I want to share with you.
HORNE is a business focused on client service and our mission is very clear—we are here to create value and make a difference. However, in order to be successful at that, it starts by creating value and making a difference for ourselves and the others around us, our culture. Without a strong commitment to our culture—the WISE FIRM—we will fail to successfully embrace and weather the storms that will come our way.
Here are a few things to consider on the path to create value and make a difference for yourself and others.
Don’t just know of the culture, embrace and live it! This one is easy to see and articulate, but striving to embrace and live out all thirteen building blocks from our foundation of We and Service to the top block of Positive Energy is a daily journey. Don’t just memorize it! Be the Wise Firm!
Truly understanding and remembering outcomes is more important than the hours we work. It’s easy to look at your timesheet at the end of each period and feel good about those long hours. It’s time to change that mindset and think about the outcomes instead of the time spent achieving those outcomes.
Taking a step forward and embracing fearless unrivaled flexibility (FUF), even when it’s uncomfortable. Remember: commitment + trust + communication = FUF. It can be very uncomfortable, but slay those gulit vampires and remember, outcomes are more important than time!
Embracing hard decisions and tough feedback within the working environment from a 360 degree view with a change mindset. This is easy during discussion groups, but in reality it takes an intentional mindset and discipline.
Embracing gratitude and forgiveness on a daily basis with not only others, but with ourselves. You are your own worst critic. Don’t forget to give yourself a break.
Approaching all things with a positive attitude (this usually comes after you have an attitude of gratitude). When attitudes shift from being positive, the working atmosphere changes significantly and energies are drained!
So, let’s say it, hashtag it, embrace it and live it! Why? Because #culturematters!
About the Author
Whitney is a government services supervisor focusing on governmental compliance and monitoring oversight for various state agencies. She is a servant leader who is passionate about building the Wise Firm - a place where team members are encouraged to achieve their dreams and reach their full potential in their own unique way.