My boss came into my office the other day to chat about a one on one she had with another team member. When the other team member was asked what their goal was, the answer was - I want to be Deb. They want to achieve what I achieve in my weekly goals, and the objectives set out by the company we work for. I have won many awards with my company, and continue to be a top performer week after week, year after year. I am not tooting my own horn, simply stating the facts at my workplace.
My bosses response was being a top performer does not come without sacrifice. It is not about punching that proverbial time card of our job description putting in 7.25 hours per day, 5 days a week. I am usually at work by 8:30 am, and not leaving until about 6:30 pm. I also work on my days and weekends off. Why you may ask. The answer to me is simple - I have made a commitment to my client, and I will do my best to complete it correctly, and within an acceptable time frame.
I do not do this job, or work the hours I work for recognition, or an award. I do what I do because I care about my clients, and I care about the work that I do. The best reward I get is seeing the difference I can make in someone's life, and for them to refer family and friends to me. That says it all. That is why I do what I do.
When my boss said this to me, my first thought was my kung fu training, and how I approach my training. We have that proverbial time card of 2 - 1 hour classes weekly (as well as IHC, if you are in it). If your goal is to attend your classes, and progress in a manner of what is allotted to you, that is great. If your goal is to become a black belt, then that 'time card' is a myth. I need to put the time in, I need to push myself, I need to 'work' my extra hours to achieve my goal. I want to enrich my journey, and am very grateful for those that provide guidance along the way.
The one thing I continually remind myself of is I do not do this on my own. I may win awards at work, and the first thing I do is thank my team, and those around me. If not for them, I would not have the time to do what I do. We all take on different projects, different levels of work. They are as much a part of the award as I am. I also thank my family, if not for them, and understanding my long hours, I wouldn't be able to do it. The 'house' jobs of cooking, cleaning, laundry, etc are shared, and I am thankful they are willing to help get it all done.
We obtain stripes on our belts, and rise in belt ranks. We do not do this on our own. Our instructors are guiding us through these levels. If not for their time, knowledge, and willingness to help us succeed, we would not be where we are. Again, we need to put the work in, but without the tools to help us, how would we possibly obtain that? We need to maintain the integrity of this martial art. To respect the history, and those that came before us, and will come after us.
I personally think sacrifice is a harsh word. I prefer choice. It is my choice to follow these paths. I choose to be accountable, and I find great joy in what I do.
'Take your first step towards mastery by removing everything in your environment that represents mediocrity, removing your arbitrary limits' - this does not equate to 'sacrifice'.
Thanks for reading, see you on the mats!
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