I’m beginning to think that having a high standard of performance excellence is actually an affliction in this society. I’m encountering more and more people that lack the basic competence to do the job they’ve been assigned, nor do they have an ethic or desire to perform effectively; apparently they were referred and/or hired by a friend, who chose to overlook their shortcomings, and bring them in to the company so that they could earn a paycheck… It’s showing up on multiple levels; practically in epidemic proportions. What’s up with this trend?

It’s almost like a badge of honor: who can create the most problems, as opposed to creating solutions, thereby prolonging their jobs security, and enjoying as “cushy” an experience on their job as possible… it’s like a conspiracy against results…

As a crusader whose been called a “threat to mediocrity,” I seem to have established a unique type of rapport with people, in that they are avoiding me… They’re avoiding the fact that I will hold them to a higher standard; since they don’t want to be uncomfortable, they don’t engage…

Do CEOs know this is going on, or are they awash in it as well?

I know there are some wonderful exceptions to this paradigm; companies that are truly conscientious, value oriented, and whose people are committed to the highest standards of excellence and results. Unfortunately, it seems that these businesses are not mainstream…

So what can we do about this?

As leaders, one key component is to continuously be conscious of our standard, and the standards that we bring into each engagement. Although we can’t set other people’s standards for them, we can set an example of conscientiousness, and the results that a high standard of diligence and commitment can bring.

Continual dissatisfaction with our paradigm is also an imperative. It’s not about focusing on how empty the glasses, but how full it can be, and strive to fill the glass, through selfless service, and being oriented toward how one’s efforts can best optimize team performance.

It may be frustrating in today’s ongoing era of entitlement and victimization, yet as conscientious leaders, it’s our prerogative to set the example of setting and maintaining a high standard, and make our environment and world a better place.

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