Blog- Thomas G. Jones PhD
4-11-08
Today as my partner and I were driving south through Portland on I-205 we saw a distressing site. Just past an on-ramp, along the shoulder of the freeway, was a police car. From the view at 60 miles per hour the story seemed to be that the woman had taken a wrong turn and found herself on the freeway instead of her intended surface street. Why so distressing? Because her vehicle was a motorized wheelchair and the young woman was severely disabled. One wrong turn and she was surrounded by speeding hunks of materials flying by at freeway speeds. Fortunately, two members of the Portland police department had arrived to assist her back to safety and her intended destination.
But there was another element to this story. One of the officers stood several feet away from her to safely direct traffic while the other officer engaged the young woman in conversation. As he spoke he had arranged himself so that he looked up at her while in conversation. That action, his body language, and his manner all spoke to respect and dignity as well as safety and service. It was encouraging to see such professional courtesy as part of the service to protect the member of the public.
The gracious service of the police officer caused me to reflect on my turnaround work with business owners. Often, when I arrive on the scene, the business owner has taken a wrong turn, found themselves in a wrong or dangerous place, were quite distressed, and in deep need of service. But not just service. Service that respected their dignity as well as provided positive change. I always strive to help, not to judge, be respectful, and complete the turnaround. The business owners and I have accomplished an impressive track record of turnaround success and one of my favorite activities is to share a satisfied smile with a business owner as we reflect on the road we traveled to arrive at that better place called here and now.
My message today is simple: during the long journey of business ownership you may take an occasional wrong turn. It may frighten you as you find yourself in a place not intended, and a place that is not safe. Relax, do not judge yourself harshly, and call in competent help. Too, make sure that you expect that the help comes from a source that not only provides insight to solve the problems but that respects you and your circumstance.
Last, keep things in perspective. Business challenges are just that. Temporary circumstances that can be changed with time, right action, and competent help.
Be Joyous! Let now be beautiful.
Blessings, Thomas.
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