05/04/2024
Notes from site:
Behind every wall we build lies a story of blood, sweat, and tears. Our latest project in Morocco is a true testament to the perseverance and commitment of the entire team. From last-minute client changes and suppliers not showing up, to machinery breakdowns and long nights in the factory with one spotlight, there was not a challenge we didn’t face.
I’ll be honest, there are days when it feels like it’s all too overwhelming and there’s no light at the end of the tunnel. In fact, most projects have at least one of those moments. Some just have a few more than others.
The solution? It’s always the same. To take one more step forward. To just wake up and do the work, for one more day. I heard a phrase from a Zen teacher years ago that stuck with me: Embrace the suck.
However, there is an aspect to getting through hard times that is underrated in my view and that is the power of a committed team. I know for myself, I’ve shown up many times only because people are relying on me and expecting me to show up. They are in the suck with me and the thought of letting them down pushes me out of bed on the days I would rather stay and hide beneath the covers.
How do you build a committed team? There are many factors contributing to this but a good place to start is to regularly acknowledge and appreciate everyone who’s with you on the journey. That’s one of the biggest lessons my mentor Rick Lindsay taught me. I’ve never seen anyone express his love, appreciation, and gratitude so often and genuinely as he does, which is why *everyone* loves working with Rick. When you’re on a construction site, you don’t often see people hug each other and express their admiration for each other. When Rick’s on a site it happens. Every. Single. Day. The result? He makes you feel like a hero.
I’ve been fortunate enough to work on projects across 10 countries and four continents, and it's the same everywhere. It doesn’t take much. A few words of encouragement.
Sure, the pay check feels good and it’s important to pay your people well! But there’s something special about receiving recognition for your efforts and feeling like you’re an important part of the team.
