The Four Agreements as applied to Project Management
By Lucien R. Southard
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom (A Toltec Wisdom Book) by Don Miguel Ruiz reflects on four basic agreements to live by to gain personal freedom.
I have these four agreements posted on the inside cupboard in my bathroom to read each day when I brush my teeth. Although the agreements sound simple, they can be difficult to carry out in your day-to-day life. I'm sharing how I believe they can also apply to the workplace.
Be impeccable with your word
Communicate. Communicate. Communicate! Don't be afraid to ask why or to challenge ideas, but at all times keep your words respectful and courteous.
Don't take anything personally
The actions of others are based on their own needs, NOT yours. Each stakeholder will bring a different perspective to your project and most likely it will be the one that serves them best. Be sure to step outside and look at the big picture. Try to tie all of the perspectives together while focusing on the overall project.
Don't make assumptions
Assumptions left unsaid can result in a miscommunication. Don't make assumptions for your stakeholders or your team. If you are going to make them, communicate them to everyone in order to close any gap that may occur.
Always do your best
Your team and stakeholders deserve nothing less. Your best my vary from time to time based on risks, deadlines and other circumstances, but no matter what those circumstances, always do your best! Be sure to take your efforts to a pro-active level and lead your project with enthusiasm and positive energy.
I have these four agreements posted on the inside cupboard in my bathroom to read each day when I brush my teeth. Although the agreements sound simple, they can be difficult to carry out in your day-to-day life. I'm sharing how I believe they can also apply to the workplace.
Be impeccable with your word
Communicate. Communicate. Communicate! Don't be afraid to ask why or to challenge ideas, but at all times keep your words respectful and courteous.
Don't take anything personally
The actions of others are based on their own needs, NOT yours. Each stakeholder will bring a different perspective to your project and most likely it will be the one that serves them best. Be sure to step outside and look at the big picture. Try to tie all of the perspectives together while focusing on the overall project.
Don't make assumptions
Assumptions left unsaid can result in a miscommunication. Don't make assumptions for your stakeholders or your team. If you are going to make them, communicate them to everyone in order to close any gap that may occur.
Always do your best
Your team and stakeholders deserve nothing less. Your best my vary from time to time based on risks, deadlines and other circumstances, but no matter what those circumstances, always do your best! Be sure to take your efforts to a pro-active level and lead your project with enthusiasm and positive energy.