I've just finished reading The Starbuck Experience by Joseph Michelli in which he details the 5 principles that he believes are the underpinning for all of the business decisions that are made by the Starbuck's employees from the CEO to the servers. Initially, I picked up the book because I was interested in the business application of the information.
As I began reading, however, the application for those of us with AD/HD became readily apparent.
Though I never gave it much thought, in hindsight, I can now say that almost all of the baristas I've encountered at Starbucks have been very welcoming and gracious. I now know that this is, in part, due to the values that they ascribe to and share with their colleagues; some even carry a small book in their apron, outlining the core business values of Starbucks. The book is replete with examples of how Starbucks makes value based business decisions, like making stores "green" or volunteering in the communities where they operate. One of the main "take aways" for me is the reminder that when everyone buys into a set of shared values upon which they make decisions, the values come alive. Rather than just filling a page in the stockholders' annual report or hanging on a wall of the corporate headquarters, the values translate into actions that positively affect peoples' lives.
"ADDers" can make decisions based on their values, as well. There are a couple of challenges for some, though, as well as ways to address those challenges.
- We forget what is important to us, our values. It might help to carry around our own "small book," to remind us.
- At times, we move, think and make decisions too fast. We need to use strategies that work for us to slow down and be more deliberate in living our values.
So, get a grande ½ caf, ½ decaf with soy and ponder what is important to you. Then take action. I think it is worth your time. What do you think?
