Originally posted on CU Insight 12/23/14

Sounds strange, doesn’t it? Usually (and especially during this time of year) we’re talking about the joy of giving and we find ourselves on a constant quest to find stuff to give to others. Please don’t think that giving isn’t important. Of course it is. But organizations should also experience the joy of taking. Here’s how:

Be joyful and thankful when taking constructive feedback from your company’s patrons. You should be asking for it and you should also be prepared to hear the good and the bad. Use a cloud-based scorecard to keep track of the feedback and use it to improve relationships.

Be vigilant in taking care of your employees. If your employees are happy, feel appreciated, and are empowered, they will work harder. Earlier this week, Forbes released its annual list of “Best Companies to Work For.” Read the article and recognize that one of the characteristics that all of them have in common is that they have happy employees.

Learn from the unpleasant experiences that come with taking things for granted. Let’s face it – we all do this. When we do, we tell ourselves that we’re not going to do it anymore. But do we have a plan to help us fulfill that promise we make to ourselves?

Take the high road. Yes, it’s cliché. But this is a bit of ancient wisdom that we simply can’t ignore. Professionals – we have a lot on our plates. There’s no doubt about it. Why waste time getting caught up in adolescent tantrum over inconsequential matters? Be the better person. Move on.

Take time to reboot. It’s not selfish. It’s smart. Is it time for your organization to take a fresh look at people, processes, policies, and projects? Is it time for you personally to find the time to relax, refresh, and restart? Creativity & innovation should be celebrated. But these things don’t happen when the tank is empty.

See, taking isn’t all that bad, is it? Happy Holidays and here’s to a fantastic 2015!