First we have all heard the saying:  “Don’t sweat the small stuff!”…right?  In fact I believe there is even a series of books all about learning how to not get caught up in the little life/work issues.  And yes I believe it is easy and almost natural to sometimes worry too much for too long about things that maybe you really don’t have control over.

But now you are asking…why does this week’s TRIPLE III TIME:  “Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff” (or should you?) message seem to indicate that that philosophy is all wrong?

Let me explain.

As I observe the world of work from any angle…I believe the “small stuff” is what separates good from great in so many ways.  In support of this belief, let me toss out a few examples to ponder.

• Calling someone back reasonably quick as part of professional courtesy.
• Turning work assignments in early because it’s the right professional thing to do.
• Share communications to all involved…so they don’t “hear it on the street”.
• Compliment those who “go the extra mile”…their smiles are an immediate gratification for both.
• Recognize return business with much more than they expect.
• Notice students who arrive early for class…it will have a lasting effect.
• Don’t hoard the gift of respect…apply it with skill.
• Remember holding a grudge can go both ways and creates professional arthritis.
• Accepting compromise (at any level) sets a replicable example.
• Say you are wrong…when you are.

Ok…I will admit that some of these examples aren’t normally small…but if handled simply and correctly they should stay small.

Finally, think of a real life occurrence of each of these examples and maybe if you just sweat the small stuff…there will be less BIG stuff.