Inspiring Workplaces: Keeping the Lights on Near the End of the Tunnel

Published: Wed, 04/28/21

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Humor at Work ISSUE 870 - Apr. 28, 2021
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    Keeping the Lights on Near the End of the Tunnel
   



 

So close, and yet so far. That's how I'm feeling right now as I continue working on a massive project. It's about 86.4% finished. I can sort of, almost, kind of...if I squint...see the light at the end of the tunnel. The hardest part is over, yet the remaining 13.6% is likely going to involve a lot of stress and a lot of work. The last mile is so often the hardest mile; the last 10% of a project can often feel like the most daunting piece of the puzzle. 

So, what can you do when you are nearing the end of a major project and you feel your enthusiasm melting away like a Chunky Monkey ice cream cone on a hot summer day? A few thoughts, well, five to be precise:

1. Choose your self-talk wisely. Two weeks ago, on this very Bat-channel, l wrote about how asking the question, "Can I make it to the finish line?" creates a more positive mental response and mindset shift than asking, "Can I keep going?"

2. Celebrate and reflect on how far you've come. Talk about the lessons learned along the way! You need to intentionally focus on the progress you've made and on how far you've traveled, rather than just focusing on how much there is still left to do.

3. Be realistic, don't sugar coat things. As tempting as it may be, don't oversell the idea that the end is but a hop, skip, and a jump away. Don't create false expectations. Talk openly about the obstacles you'll still have to surmount as you approach the summit. 

4. Remember why you started. It can be easy to lose sight of why you are doing this, so now is the time to keep your eye on the proverbial prize. Remind everyone of the ultimate goal and of the myriad of benefits awaiting everyone when you cross the finish live.

5. Celebrate! Now you might think celebrating prematurely could be, well, premature. And of course you're going to celebrate wildly once you've crossed the finish line, but this is also the perfect time to throw a much-needed "Light at the End of the Tunnel Bash," a "We're So Darned Close We Can Smell It Party" or a "If I Squint I Can Almost See the Summit Event" as a way to celebrate your progress, re-energize the troops, and refocus on your ultimate goal. 

rule1
   
    Mike's Fun at Work Tip
 
A super quick meeting icebreaker: Have everyone Google "I need more..." and then have everyone share what the predictive search text suggests for them. (When I did this just now, it turns out I need more cowbell!)
rule1
    Quote of the Week 
 
“Optimism isn’t about saying things are good when they’re not, and it’s not about conveying some blind faith that 'things will work out.' It’s about believing in your abilities and others’ abilities.” Robert Iger, CEO, Disney
rule1
    Funny Business
 
May the Farce Be With You this May!

And to help you find the farce, the May theme days are up on the website, including: 

May 1:   World Naked Gardening Day       
May 2:   World Laughter Day
May 4:   May the Fourth Be With You
May 6:   No Diet Day
May 8:   Mini Golf Day
May 11: Eat What You Want Day
May 14: Dance Like a Chicken Day
May 16: Ride a Unicycle Day
May 21: Pizza Party Day
May 25: Nerd/Geek Pride Day
May 31: Smile Day
rule1
 
Humor at Work: I'm quoted in the article Humor at Work for Managers: Is it Serious Now?


The Jerk-Free Workplace: How You Can Take the Lead to Create a Happier, More Inspiring Workplace.
"Anyone who wants to make a difference in their workplace needs to read this book! Mike Easton, President and CEO, Argus Industries 


Many of you have taken us up on our generous bulk discounts for the book. If you order 25 or more copies, you can book a free Q & A/coffee chat/lunch n' learn with the charming author!

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Inspiring Workplaces YouTube Channel Latest Attractions
30 Reasons You Need More Humor at Work (5 min.) 

A Great Example of Customer Service With a Laugh (3 min.)

 
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