February Madness Work Flow

CeCe Marizu, Account Executive

If you haven’t started watching college basketball this season you’re missing out.  Yeah, I’m talking to you “I don’t like college basketball until March” fans.  For the past five weeks the number one team has gone down, Big Ten basketball is AMAZING this year and Notre Dame vs. Louisville reminded us all why we love the fight in the game (five overtimes? As Dick Vitale would say, “This is awesome baby!”).

Do you see the similarities between this basketball season and the work world like me?  For example, each week you have games to win and some seem bigger than others, but your focus level has to remain the same.  One week you might feel like the underdog in a campaign and the next week suddenly fans are rushing the court as you take down a powerhouse.  Other times it may appear as if you’re the number one team in the country, but someone is always looking to dethrone you.

Now is the time to focus on the smallest details in your game plan to avoid a mistake that could turn into a crisis.  Show up for work early and stay late when you need to finish a project.  The great Muhammad Ali said, “Champions aren´t made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them – a desire, a dream, a vision.” Your desk and computer may not look or smell like a gym, but the desire to produce great work is still inside of you. The employee that works harder than his/her competitor will be the most prepared.  And most importantly, just as in basketball, your team is a vital part of your success. You need to trust them when you need them the most.

Here are some key points for you to focus on as March Madness approaches (March Madness Work Flow that is):

   * Think of your competition and get into “grind mode”

   * Take time to read more and write blogs

   * Challenge yourself by working on your weaknesses

   * Step outside of your comfort zone at least once a week

   * Take the extra time to edit your work

   * Engage with your team members and learn more about them

   * Mix passion with purpose

   * Stop stressing out! If you put in the work there’s no reason to be nervous

   * Enjoy the moment (As Kid President would say, “This is life people!”)

   * Breathe and slow the game down when you need to

Good luck in your work season! Come time for the big dance you’ll be ready to go.  Your basketball bracket on the other hand…eh that may be a bit more challenging to put together.