I recently attended a coworker’s wedding. I thought about all the planning, execution and resources it takes for that big moment. The endless hours of planning who you will invite, who will be your bridesmaids and groomsmen, the flowers, the music, the rings, the church and then your vows. The commitment you declare to the higher spirit and in front of those in attendance in that one sacred moment.
I thought about the words exchanged during the ceremony, which set the intention and expectations they set forth to accomplish. There are many versions of wedding vows including the following modified traditional version.
During this ceremony the minister reminded those in attendance that we are there to support them during their journey together. He expressed that this commitment is not a 50/50 but the expectation is that you invest 100% each day. He went on to share that you learn to grow together, forgive each other for your shortfalls and continue to treasure this amazing gift you have been given.
I realized that the same applies in your professional life! How is your marriage at work? What about the commitment you made when you accepted the position at your company? Are you saying “I do”, or “I won’t”? I am thinking about my current position as a general sales manager. The job description laid out the details of expectation including growing revenue, managing expenses, retention and growth of sales talent, create engaging sales meetings, develop client relationships and represent the company with integrity just to name a few, prior to me saying “I will” and “I do”.
I invite you to take the time and think about your work relationship – your marriage, if you will, to your current position.
- Are you 100% invested in the role you accepted?
- Are you growing from this relationship?
- Is there an opportunity to renew yourself and learn from those you lead?
- Do you love what you do?
- Did you work through a challenging situation?
- Are you looking for a divorce from your current employer?
- Do you still believe you can make a difference in your team’s life?
- Is it time to renew your commitment?
In most cases, we spend more time with our work family than the ones we made our life commitment to. I would love to hear how you invest in those meaningful work relationships.