Practicing Mise en Place
Having watched some football games today where, had the clock been managed differently, the outcome of the game might have been different, I was reminded just how important controlling the clock is. I recently blogged about this in Time Is A Tool. Then, this same topic has surfaced while reading Work Clean: The Life-changing Power of Mise-en-place To Organize Your Life, Work, and Mind by Dan Charnas. Charnas emphasized the idea that chefs approach time with intention and design, rather than simply allowing it to pass by. This means that chefs actively structure their workflows, schedules, and cooking processes to maximize efficiency and creativity in the kitchen.
Charnas pointed out that chefs don’t just let time pass – they design it. He also highlighted how professional chefs are constantly thinking about the timing of each task, from preparation to cooking to plating. They synchronize their activities to ensure that each component of a dish is executed at the right moment, which is crucial in delivering high-quality meals.
This perspective can be applied beyond the kitchen as well, suggesting that in any profession or aspect of life, being mindful and strategic about how we use our time can lead to better results and a more fulfilling experience. Essentially, it’s about taking control of your time rather than being reactive to it.
Nostalgia: Our Kids Triggering Memories
As I sit and do my morning study and reflection time today on Thanksgiving, a great feeling rushes over me as I think about my son, Heath, being here and in his room. I have been excited about him being home for Thanksgiving ever since he told us he would be here. Keep in mind I was just with him last weekend for our trip to the Harvard/Yale football game (The Game). Those that know me know that ever since he started college I would be in a funk when he was gone. Now that Heath is an adult and out of college I’m not quite as bad, but I must admit I was in a bit of a funk after leaving him on Sunday till he got home last night. Just seeing his truck parked in the driveway this morning brings me joy. I know, it’s weird, but I love spending time with my son.
This all got me thinking about why we get that great feeling when our kids are home and under our roof visiting. There’s something incredibly comforting and fulfilling about having our adult children return home. Here are a few things that come to mind as I sit and reflect:
- Sense of Connection: Having our kids home creates a sense of closeness and connection. It’s a reminder of family bonds and shared experiences, which can bring joy and warmth.
- Nostalgia: Seeing them in their old spaces may evoke fond memories from their childhood. These memories can be bittersweet but ultimately rewarding, as they remind us of the journey we’ve all taken together.
- Safety and Comfort: Knowing that our children are safe and sound at home can alleviate worries. Home often represents a place of comfort, stability, and security.
- Pride: Watching our children grow into adults can bring a deep sense of pride. You may feel satisfaction in seeing them navigate life independently and then choose to return to their roots.
- Opportunities for Connection: Their presence offers opportunities for meaningful conversations, laughter, and the chance to reconnect. It fosters an environment for building deeper relationships.
- Fulfillment of Parenthood: For me, seeing Heath thriving and returning home affirms that we did okay raising him. It can affirm the love, support, and guidance we’ve provided over the years.
Overall, these moments can be a combination of joy, reflection, and gratitude, making their return feel especially sweet.
Building A Lasting Legacy
I am reading the great book Apostle: Travels Among the Tombs of the Twelve by Tom Bissell. He made a thought-provoking statement when discussing the Acts of Thomas that offers valuable insights for leaders. The phrase that caused me much deep thought about our legacies was, “Most Kings tend to be builders because building is what ensures the king’s legacy.” Bissell went on to explain that it would be hard to search for a King in history who had not built things.
This made me think of those memorials are constructed for, stadiums named after, buildings funded by great women and men, and other things constructed as legacies. I wondered if this was enough for a legacy. I decided it was not. This is not to say, however, that university buildings, hospitals, or other greatly needed structures are not important legacies, but I believe a legacy should be more.
Here are a few key takeaways from my thoughts on Bissell’s comment on Kings being builders:
- Legacy Matters: Just as kings build to ensure their legacy, leaders should think about the long-term impact of their decisions. Building something enduring—be it a company culture, community initiatives, or innovative products—can leave a lasting mark.
- Vision and Ambition: Successful leaders often share a vision that drives them to create and innovate. This ambition can inspire teams and followers, fostering a sense of purpose and direction.
- Investment in Growth: Building isn’t just about physical structures; it’s also about investing in people and processes. Leaders who prioritize development—be it through mentorship, training, or resources—are likely to cultivate a strong foundation for success.
- Responsibility and Stewardship: With the power to build comes the responsibility to do so wisely. Leaders should be mindful of the impact their actions have on various stakeholders and the environment, working towards sustainable and ethical practices.
- Adaptability and Innovation: The desire to build encourages leaders to adapt and innovate in response to changing circumstances. This flexibility is crucial in navigating challenges and seizing new opportunities.
Overall, Bissell’s statement served as a reminder that effective leadership and being significant involves not only making decisions but also actively creating and nurturing positive change in the world.
The Obscurity of Leadership Language
I am reading a great book right now published in 1936. The book is Language, Truth, and Knowledge by Alfred Jules Ayer. It is not a leadership book, but as a person who preaches that language matters, this book has many lessons for leaders. Ayer was a prominent figure in the field of philosophy, particularly known for his work in logical positivism, emphasized the importance of empirical experience and the limitations of language in conveying certain types of knowledge. He argued that our understanding of the world is fundamentally rooted in sensory experience. According to Ayer, experiences gained through the senses are direct and immediate, providing a solid foundation for knowledge.
In contrast, Ayer viewed language as a tool for expressing thoughts and ideas, but one that can often lead to misunderstandings or ambiguities. I guess this is why I believe so strongly that language matters. He believed that while language is essential for communication and the sharing of ideas, it can sometimes obscure the clarity of direct experience. For Ayer, meaningful statements must be verifiable through empirical observation, aligning with his broader stance on the significance of scientific and logical analysis.
One thing that jumped out at me early is Ayer’s work on tautologies. A tautology is a statement that is true in every possible interpretation, often because it redundantly repeats the same idea in different words. In logic and rhetoric, tautologies can be used to emphasize a point, but they typically don’t add any new information. Here are a few examples:
- “It is what it is.” – This phrase reiterates the same idea without providing any additional insight.
- “Free gift.” – A gift is inherently free; the word “free” is unnecessary.
- “Absolutely essential.” – If something is essential, it’s already absolute by definition.
- “Either it will rain tomorrow or it won’t.” – This is true regardless of what happens, as one of the two options must occur.
- “The future is yet to come.” – The future, by definition, refers to events that have not occurred yet.
We all use tautologies and this made me release how important it is for us, as leaders, to go beyond tautological statements when addressing issues – particularly in crisis or emergency situations. While tautologies can sometimes provide clarity or reassurance, relying solely on them can come off as evasive or lacking depth.
Remember: language matters. Effective leadership communication should include:
- Clarity and Specificity: We need to clearly articulate our vision, strategies, and the steps we will take to address issues. This helps foster understanding and buy-in from our audience.
- Engagement: Meaningful discourse encourages dialogue and engagement. Using rhetoric that invites questions and discussions is more effective than simply stating obvious truths.
- Actionable Insights: We should strive to provide insights that are actionable and grounded in real scenarios. This empowers teams to understand the context and move forward effectively.
- Building Trust: Communicating transparently and thoughtfully helps build trust. People are more likely to respect and follow us if our communication addresses concerns with depth rather than relying on circular reasoning.
Bottom-line: We, as leaders, should aim for a more nuanced approach to communication that fosters understanding and inspires action.
Time Is A Tool
Last night I heard the statement, “Time is a tool.” As a student, friend, and fan of L. David Marquet (also the author of Leadership is Language) who teaches us to “control the clock”, time being a tool suggested that time can be utilized as a resource to help accomplish goals, manage tasks, and structure our lives. Most people just want to complain and say there is not enough time, which is really stupid because we can’t make more of it. But just like a tool is used to build or create something, time can be harnessed effectively to enhance productivity, prioritize activities, and achieve personal or professional objectives.
Time used as a tool implies that we have the power to make choices about how we spend our time, emphasizing the importance of time management and planning to navigate our daily lives more efficiently. Ultimately, it highlights the idea that time, when used wisely, can lead to greater success and fulfillment.
Marquet’s concept of “controlling the clock” emphasizes the importance of taking charge of how we use our time, particularly in a leadership context. When he talks about controlling the clock, he’s highlighting the need for individuals and teams to be proactive in their approach to time management rather than reactive. This idea is closely related to viewing time as a tool.
When time is seen as a tool, it shifts our perspective from being passive recipients of time to active managers of it. Think about the best athletic coaches. What do they do really well? Control the clock. Here are a few connections between Marquet’s ideas and time as a tool:
- Intentionality: Just as a tool requires skill and intent to use effectively, managing time well requires deliberate choices about how to allocate it. Marquet encourages leaders to create cultures where team members feel empowered to make decisions that optimize their time and contributions.
- Ownership: By controlling the clock, individuals take ownership of their responsibilities and schedules. This sense of ownership allows for better prioritization and focus on what truly matters, turning time into a resource that can be shaped to meet specific goals.
- Empowerment: Marquet’s approach advocates for giving people the authority to manage their own time, which fosters engagement and accountability. When team members control their own schedules, they can align their activities more closely with their strengths and priorities.
- Adaptability: Understanding time as a tool means being flexible and responsive. Marquet stresses adapting strategies based on the situation, just as one would choose different tools for different tasks. Being aware of how time can be manipulated allows for better navigation through challenges. One of the things Marquet advocates for is taking a “timeout” or “pause” to think and reflect.
So, as Marquet says, let’s not “obey the clock,” but “control the clock.” This aligns well with the notion of time as a tool by emphasizing intentional use, ownership, empowerment, and adaptability. These principles can help individuals as leaders and teams maximize their effectiveness and achieve their objectives more successfully.
A Disciple Of Experience
It is said that what we learned from the 4,000 pages of original manuscripts of Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks is that he knew a lot, and he also learned a lot. He learned from asking questions. Leonardo said of himself that he was “a disciple of experience.” This statement reflected his belief in the importance of learning through direct observation and hands-on practice. He valued experiential knowledge over theoretical understanding, suggesting that true mastery comes from engaging with the world, experimenting, and drawing insights from real-life situations.
Leonardo’s approach involved meticulous observation of nature, human anatomy, and various crafts, allowing him to accumulate wisdom that informed his artistic and scientific work. In essence, he emphasized that experience is a crucial teacher, and by embracing it, one can gain deeper insights and develop a more profound understanding of complex subjects. This ethos is evident in his diverse interests and contributions across art, science, engineering, and pretty much every discipline.
The Winning Combination: Real, Authentic, Fun, & Loving What We Do
Last night, one of the commentators before the Los Angeles Chargers – Cincinnati Bengals game (Chargers won 34-27) made the comment referring to Charger’s Head Coach Jim Harbaugh that, “He’s real, he’s authentic.” He went on to say, “What you see is what you get.” Finally, one of his players in an interview said, “I’ve never seen anyone who loves football as much as Coach Harbaugh does.” His point was they were always having fun because Coach Harbaugh was having fun. All this was clearly a pretty good combination for great leadership.
The phrases “He’s real, he’s authentic” and “What you see is what you get” highlight several key traits that are often associated with effective leadership:
- Authenticity: Leaders who are genuine and transparent foster trust among their team members. When leaders are true to themselves, they create an environment where others feel safe to be themselves, leading to better collaboration and morale.
- Consistency: Being authentic means that a leader’s actions align with their words. This consistency helps establish credibility, as team members can rely on them to act in accordance with their stated values and principles.
- Connection: Authentic leaders are relatable and accessible, making it easier for followers to connect with them on a personal level. This connection can inspire loyalty and motivate teams to work towards shared goals.
- Openness to Feedback: Authentic leaders are approachable and encourage open communication. This openness allows for constructive feedback, which can lead to personal and organizational growth.
- Inspiration: A leader who embodies authenticity can inspire others by demonstrating confidence and integrity. Their realness can motivate team members to strive for their best and align their personal values with the organization’s mission.
Bottom line: Jim Harbaugh’s authenticity and straightforwardness contribute significantly to his leadership effectiveness by building trust, fostering connection, and inspiring his team to achieve their goals. Harbaugh’s enthusiasm for the game creates a positive atmosphere that keeps players engaged and motivated. When a leader is genuinely passionate, it can be contagious, inspiring athletes to give their best effort.
A leader, just as a coach who enjoys the game, fosters a sense of camaraderie among players and those they serve. When others see their coach or leader having fun, it encourages team bonding and helps build strong relationships, which can enhance teamwork on and off the field or in the organization.
We can learn from Coach Harbaugh that by creating an environment where fun is a priority, a culture that values hard work while also encouraging players to enjoy the process is cultivated. This balance, along with being authentic, can lead to higher performance levels and reduced pressure.
Errors Vs Confusion
As a person who likes to get things done I often say, “Let’s do something, even if it’s wrong.” I don’t say this to be funny but to express that if we do nothing we won’t know what’s wrong, or how to fix it. Recently when reading the 50th anniversary edition of Thomas S. Kuhn’s The Structure of Scientific Revolutions I came across Kuhn’s learnings from Francis Bacon. He quoted Bacon. I found that Bacon had affirmed my thinking a long time ago.
Francis Bacon’s quote, “Truth emerges more readily from error than from confusion,” suggested that when we make mistakes, we can often learn and clarify our understanding. Errors can lead us to reassess our beliefs and assumptions, ultimately guiding us toward a clearer sense of truth. In contrast, confusion can cloud our judgment and make it difficult to discern what is true, as it often arises from a lack of clarity or understanding. Essentially, Bacon highlighted the importance of learning from our mistakes, as they can be stepping stones to greater insight, while confusion hinders our ability to find clarity.
Kuhn’s reference to Francis Bacon in The Structure of Scientific Revolutions adds depth to Bacon’s original ideas about knowledge, confusion, and the process of learning from mistakes. While Bacon emphasized the importance of learning from errors as a path to greater understanding, Kuhn built on this foundation by introducing the concept of paradigms in scientific progress.
Kuhn argued that science does not progress through a linear accumulation of facts but rather through a series of revolutionary changes in which existing paradigms are challenged and replaced. He suggested that confusion or anomalies within a prevailing paradigm often lead scientists to re-evaluate their understanding, paving the way for new theories.
In essence, Kuhn wanted us to learn that periods of scientific stability (normal science) can give way to crises when anomalies accumulate, forcing scientists to confront their assumptions. This process can initially seem chaotic and confusing, but it is ultimately essential for scientific advancement. Thus, while both thinkers valued the role of error and confusion in the quest for clarity, Kuhn expanded on Bacon by framing it within the broader context of scientific revolutions and paradigm shifts.
Discovering Stockyards City: A Journey in Relationship Building Through History, Culture, and Cowboy Charm
I pride myself on being the person who finds the cool places to go when coming into a city or state as a visitor. This past week I was in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma for ExcelinEd’s National Summit on Education. I must first say that Oklahoma City far exceeded my expectations. The people are super friendly and there are lots of cool things to see. The coolest, however, was historic Stockyards City, Oklahoma. Luckily I saw a sign for it as my Uber was delivering me to my hotel. Farm kid that I am, with the word stockyards I was in.
Historic Stockyards City, Oklahoma, is a vibrant district that proudly showcases its rich heritage as a hub of cattle trading and ranching. Established in the late 19th century, it became a central site for the livestock industry, particularly with the opening of the Oklahoma City Stockyards in 1910. The area is renowned for its iconic structures, including the impressive Livestock Exchange Building and the famous Stockyards City Main Street, lined with Western shops, restaurants, and museums. Highlights include the annual “World’s Largest Stocker and Feeder Cattle Auction,” which attracts buyers and sellers from across the country, as well as the historic rodeo events that celebrate cowboy culture. Today, Stockyards City remains a lively destination, drawing visitors eager to experience its unique blend of history, culture, and Western charm. In fact there are cattle auctions at the stockyards each Monday and Tuesday.
I still haven’t told you the best part of Stockyards City yet that was also founded in 1910 – Cattlemen’s Steakhouse. Originally, in 1910, it was called the Cattlemen’s Cafe. As soon as I saw this on the web, I knew I had to go! I ended up going twice!!! The first time, a group of us were leaving an early evening event and one of our department of education team members said, “I really need to get something to eat.” I said, “I’ve got just the place.” Off we went.
It was awesome! We had the most incredible server ever who really understood what the customer experience is all about. She told us all about the food, she told us how the food was prepared, gave us recommendations, and gave us a full history lesson – such as that the original owner lost the restaurant in a 🎲 dice roll. True story. We had to have the famous Lamb Fries (I’ll let you click and find out what they are, if you don’t know). Our server put the history into perspective when she explained they were still using the same Lamb Fry recipe as when they opened in 1910. She then went on to tell us that was two years before the Titanic sunk in 1912. We were having the time of our lives!
Needless to say; after everyone heard of our incredible experience, there was a group of my home state peeps that wanted to go the next night. They invited me to go with them. There were other events I maybe should have gone to, but it seemed really important to spend time building relationships with this group. So I did and the group became 15.
Before I get to the real topic of this post (I know. It has taken a while) I need to say that our server the second night was the granddaughter of our server the night before. She was awesome, too! We had an incredible time and one person said to me, “I am so glad I finally got to hang out with you.” Then she texted me when I was on my way home and said, “Thanks for adding some fun to the week.” I so appreciated that! I like being that person who adds fun, smiles, and laughter to others’ lives.
Relationships are so important and I am so glad I practiced what I preach and decided to go with the group. Going to dinner can be a great way for building relationships for several reasons:
- Face-to-Face Interaction: Dining together provides an opportunity for personal, face-to-face interaction, which fosters deeper connections and understanding compared to virtual communication.
- Creating a Comfortable Atmosphere: A relaxed setting, like a restaurant, particularly when you’re eating Lamb Fries, can help people feel more comfortable and open, encouraging honest conversations and sharing of experiences.
- Shared Experience: Sharing a meal creates a communal experience that can strengthen bonds. It allows for the creation of shared memories, which are essential for relationship building. And let me tell you, we have shared memories. Check out the photos for proof.
- Opportunities for Conversation: Meals often last long enough to allow for meaningful dialogue. This time together can be used to learn more about each other’s values, interests, and backgrounds.
- Cultural Significance: In many cultures, dining together is seen as a significant social activity. It can symbolize trust and camaraderie.
- Non-Verbal Communication: During dinner, body language and non-verbal cues play a huge role in communication, allowing people to connect on a deeper emotional level.
- Networking Opportunities: In professional contexts, dinner can facilitate networking and collaboration in a more casual environment, helping to establish rapport among colleagues or business partners.
Overall, going to dinner is not just about the food; it’s about nurturing relationships through shared experiences and open communication. I also really believe that historical or iconic restaurants like Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in Stockyards City can serve as fantastic catalyst for relationship building. Here are a few ways they can be leveraged:
- Cultural Experience: These restaurants often have rich histories and unique atmospheres that can spark conversations and connections. Sharing stories about the restaurant’s past or its significance can foster a deeper bond among diners.
- Shared Experience: Dining in a place with a storied reputation can create lasting memories. When colleagues or business partners share experiences in such settings, it can strengthen their rapport and encourage more informal discussions.
- Local Flavor: Emphasizing the local cuisine can also be a great conversation starter. Discussing regional specialties or the history behind certain dishes can lead to engaging dialogues.
- Networking Opportunities: Iconic restaurants often attract influential patrons. This environment can provide opportunities for networking, allowing guests to meet others, potentially leading to beneficial business relationships. A side note here: many of the first year scenes of Tulsa King were filmed close to where we were and Sylvester Stallone who plays portrays Dwight “The General” Manfredi in Tulsa King ate where we were eating 3-4 times per week. As a huge Stallone fan, I thought that was pretty cool.
- Incorporating Themes: For specific events or meetings, you can incorporate the restaurant’s theme into presentations or discussions, further tying the dining experience to the business objectives.
- Creating Traditions: Regularly meeting at a notable restaurant can become a tradition that strengthens personal and professional bonds over time.
I do really try to find the cool and historic places when I travel to other places. It’s also great to find great restaurants when at conferences. We all need to leverage more time for building and maintaining our relationships.
Navigating Life’s Journey: Embracing The Unknown
The great song Battle Born by one of the bands I really like, Five Finger Death Punch, conveys themes of resilience, perseverance, and the struggle to overcome personal battles. I love that it reflects on the challenges one faces and the strength required to rise above them. The phrase “battle born” suggests that we are shaped by all our experiences and hardships. Ultimately we emerge stronger from the full schedules and adversity that are part of our daily life.
“Everything worth fighting for you will actually HAVE TO fight for. Every wish, every dream, every idea comes to existence only through blood, sweat, and sacrifice… we are all Battle Born” ~ Ivan Moody, Five Finger Death Punch
The lyrics of Battle Born depict a sense of fighting against the odds, highlighting the importance of determination and the spirit of not giving up, even when faced with difficulties. It also touches on the idea of unity and camaraderie in overcoming struggles, emphasizing the support we can find in our connections with others.
Battle Born’s chorus line “I don’t know where I’m going, but I know just where I’ve been (battle born)” speaks to the uncertainty of the future contrasted with the clarity of past experiences. It suggests that while our path ahead may be unclear and unpredictable, we usually have a strong awareness of our journey so far, including the struggles and challenges we’ve faced. This acknowledgment of the past can serve as a foundation for resilience and strength, highlighting that even in moments of doubt, our experiences contribute to our identity and capability to face whatever comes next. It’s a reminder that personal history can guide us, even when the destination isn’t certain.
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