One of the more challenging professional development areas I frequently become involved in is having discussions about the critical need for everyone to:  “Finish The Starts”.  What am I talking about?  Specifically, the topic of “Finish The Starts” deals with those in the world of work that really enjoy taking on a new project or different area of responsibility…but never seem to totally finish tasks they start.  Instead, they work real hard and get an assignment to a solid level of completion…and it is looking good…but then they jump to another new or unfinished work area!

This “Finish The Starts” workplace phenomenon seems to affect all occupational areas.  Administration, construction workers, techno-builders, maintenance/custodial people, educators, elected public officials, farmers and the list goes on.  And remember individually they are all well intentioned, quality workers…they just need to be encouraged and reminded that they need to “Finish The Starts”!

Therefore, the goal of this week’s TRIPLE III TIME “Finish The Starts” message is to simply offer a special TOP 10 list of thoughts on how to improve addressing this issue:

1. Always remember completion of one start allows another new start to better begin.
2. Prioritizing finishes sets a good workplace example.
3. Too many starts…equals too few finishes.
4. It is OK for co-workers and supervisors to promote “Finish The Starts” as a priority to employees.
5. Share your Finish versus Starts strategies to ensure everyone understands.
6. If appropriate delegate Finish or Start actions to improve progress in both sectors.
7. Don’t assume co-workers/supervisors can read your mind and understand/support your Finish/Start work diversity style…JUST SAY IT!
8. Asking for “Finish The Starts” advice from colleagues shows leadership.
9. Multiple starts with limited finishes may reflect poor time management.
10. Remember: HALF DONE is just that…HALF DONE!

Bottomline:  I believe everyone gets caught-up in the “Finish The Starts” challenge from time to time.  So keep these TOP 10 handy just in case.