We’re into the lazy, hazy days of summer. For me personally, it’s been a rough couple of weeks. Sometimes I overtly realize that I miss my brother, Tim. Others, it just kind of sneaks up in the form of an ambush. Perhaps some of you are rethinking commitments or situations for the long haul; and are pondering throwing in the proverbial towel! Fall, and all of its opportunities and commitments will be here before we barely blink!
I love this piece by him. I hope you do, too.
In any organization…
people come and go…
while others stay for awhile…
and still others are in it for the long haul.
Regardless of the length of stay…
there is a key distinction…
between “Perseverance” and “Longevity.”
There are some…
who see their way…
through difficult situations…
arduous tasks…
and endless challenges…
even though those may all occur…
within a short time period.
Perseverance is about seeing something through…
despite the obstacles that hinder its completion.
Longevity is more a measurement of time…
rather than an accomplishment.
The downside of longevity occurs…
when folks believe that if one…
just waits around long enough…
change will fizzle…
ideas will fade…
and challenges will magically dwindle…
until status quo is restored.
These are the folks that are more concerned…
about what they are entitled to…
because of how long they’ve been somewhere…
rather than because of what they are accomplishing.
I’m sure we’ve all met a few of these!
The best synergy occurs…
when Perseverance meets Longevity…
when a person, team or group…
continually strives for success…
over the long haul.
It is then…
that monumental problems get solved…
long term change is solidified…
and a new standard of excellence is established!
I believe that is the road we are on.
There are bumps…
there are detours…
sometimes even an occasional rock blasting…
that stops us temporarily.
But given our commitment to persevere…
we will see this through together.
I’m glad you’re on this road with me…
because occasionally I need GPS assistance.
Thanks for all you do for kids, teachers, and meaningful change.
Best,
Tim
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