Tips and reminders are practices that lead to better outcomes. When done correctly, the results can be remarkableimportant to understand the significance of the mission and the capabilities of the people who support it. Leaders also have the critical role of connecting the mission and the team. When the time and circumstance allow, good leaders explain the `why' behind the mission. In turn, clear mission `whys' equip teams to figure out the `hows' of accomplishing it. Better yet, when mission and people are interconnected, the results can surpass expectations. Creativity abounds, performance increases, and results follow. It can be hard to connect the mission and people in difficult circumstances. As a leader, it may take some reflection, self-assessment, and a willingness to rethink the situation. Deep down, people want to be successful. The best answers often come from unlikely places.Focus on the FundamentalsGreat teams are brilliant in the basics. They do common things uncommonly well. Like good manners, fundamentals never go out of style. Fundamentals are actions that indicate how clear the mission is and how connected the people are. Sound fundamentals are immune to economic trends and supply chain shortfalls. But let's face it, fundamentals are not fun. Fundamentals don't make for viral social media posts. Fundamentals are not popular. But make no mistake, fundamentals lead to lasting success. Fundamentals are the practices that help people turn pro. They are the gateways that lead the amateur to the professional. In the logistics business, great fundamentals include:o Excellent, consistent, and clear communication and coordinationo Measuring/scoring the essential elements of the enterpriseo Using technical manualso Skill-specific trainingo Ongoing education (for the unknown)o Ongoing training (for the known)o Professional reading o Coaching and mentoring new members of the teamo Inspections o Preventive maintenanceo Sound administration o Regulatory compliance, etc.o Sweeping the floor and taking out the trashThese few examples are simple but important on the road to success. When difficulties arise, fundamentals will carry the day. Fundamentals build confidence in people so that they connect with and uphold the mission.Legendary football player and coach Don Shula captured the essence of the tips and reminders process in what he called `The Winning Edge.'"The ultimate goal is victory, and if you refuse to work as hard as you possibly can toward that aim, or if you do anything that keeps you from achieving that goal, you are just cheating yourself. I feel that way about athletics, but more importantly, I feel that way about life in general. We want to dedicate ourselves to establishing a standard of excellence in the future, and we are always looking for 'The Winning Edge.'" As a result, Coach Shula and the 1972 Miami Dolphins remain the only undefeated super bowl winning team in the history of the National Football League.Tips and reminders are practices that lead to better outcomes. When done correctly, the results can be remarkable. We've found peace of mind focusing on our mission, connecting to it, and adhering to great fundamentals. We hope you experience similar results.
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