DESIGNING YOUR ENVIRONMENT

“Be a yardstick of quality.  Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected.” ~Steve Jobs

This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it.

In all aspects of life an environment of peace and joy will produce growth and learning. Working with someone in peace and good conversation makes a job seem effortless. For many people, payday is a day of thankfulness.  In the workplace, if you can find purpose and usefulness in your efforts, it is far better than just trying to make it through the shift. 

Have you ever worked a shift so taxing that if felt like time stopped?  Now, think about how fast time flies when you are having fun.  Actually think about it, how fast does time pass on the weekends or on your vacations?  It is all definitely tied to our surroundings. 

Why do we design our surroundings?  We design our environment because we know creating a positive environment eliminates the control of negativity, pessimism, or any other hatred.  The control of negativity can lead to a lack of trust, deceit, throwing others under the bus, and utter mass confusion.  Little learning or productivity can transpire in the presence of negativity.

I was once part of a group of about one hundred fifty women that just wanted to fellowship through a nice dinner and light entertainment.  The event included a steak dinner, skits, giveaways, and games.  Before anyone arrived, weeks of planning occurred to set the mood for the event.  The five senses were carefully thought about to the design the perfect environment.  A few things that specifically that set the tone of the environment included the following: a scented candle burning in the room, soft music in the background, decorations with beautiful tablecloths, and centerpieces.  Most of the women attempted to wear the same color attire as the decorations.  It was a beautifully created atmosphere with a delicious meal and warm fellowship.

In the midst of the event, one lady attempted to speak out in a negative light about the event.  There are many things I have learned from hosting events such as these.  First, you will never be able to please everyone.  But more importantly, I continue to learn that you have to design the perfect environment.

This event aforementioned was so warm and inviting that those attending refused to let any negativity ruin the atmosphere.  First, the attendees in close proximity to the one complainer begin to remind her that everything about the event was provided for free.  Then, they took time to help her solve her meal complaint keeping the peaceful and tranquil nature of the event.  The event was a huge success because of advance planning and designing of our environment for this event. 

As we lead our personal and professional lives, we must provide a wholesome surrounding for all who will enter our lives.  How is your current environment?  Are people welcomed?  Do people want to stay in your presence?  We are literally and figuratively responsible for providing a fresh, chaos-free, and friendly environment for productive results.  This kind of atmosphere offers others opportunities to discover and embrace themselves.  This will inspire them to accomplish their life goals; it also encourages accountability and responsibility with their progression.  Most people will be more diligent in their efforts to accomplish the goal, if the environment is peaceful and incentives are available.

Goal:

Literally and figuratively, provide a fresh, chaos-free, and friendly environment personally and professionally that will produce staggering results.  

Simply Jackie