The Outsiders Guide to Continuous Improvement

The Outsiders Guide to Continuous Improvement

Have you ever felt like the odd one out, the person who never gets invited back to the party? If you're someone who loves continuously improving things, you might know what that's like. So, what do I mean by getting invited back to the party? Let’s dive in!

My Journey in Continuous Improvement

 

Early on, I was introduced to the world of studying work processes and making them better. I got obsessed, maybe even possessed, with ideas about removing waste and boosting efficiency. But not everyone shared my enthusiasm. Surprisingly, many weren’t keen on hearing my suggestions or seeing my ideas come to life. In other words, my RSVP was often missing in action.


 

Why Don’t People Want to Hear My Ideas?

I’d excitedly present my ideas, only to be met with awkward silence or avoided eye contact the next time around. It took me years, but I finally figured out the secret sauce. If I took what little knowledge I had back then and simply helped someone in a way that made their day better, guess what? Suddenly, I was on the guest list again!


The Key to Getting on "The List"

It’s simple: don’t overwhelm people with all the genius ideas you’ve gathered. Instead, focus on understanding what kind of help they really need. Sometimes it’s not about flooding them with facts and theories; it’s about lending a hand in their time of need.


Here’s What You Can Do

  • Be Cool: Don’t overwhelm others with tons of information. Take a moment to see what they actually need.
  • Start Small: Offer help that’s easy to digest and makes noticeable impact on a persons day. Little deposits go a long way.
  • Listen First: Before you jump into solutions, listen to what people are struggling with. Ask curious questions to build trust and connection.


Invitation Accepted!

So, the question is, do you want a seat at the table? Wouldn't it be great to get invited back to the party? If that’s what you want, keep in mind these insights. Be kind to yourself, be cool, and above all, understand the kind of help others truly need. By doing this, you’ll not only expand your influence but also enjoy the journey of continuous improvement to its fullest.

See you at the next party, and remember, we're here cheering you on every step of the way.

Peace✌️

ps, have you been looking for a way to take control of your schedule and stop neglecting yourself? Drop #DotheDamnthing in the comments to let me know



This bit is here for all you awesome folks that enjoy reading. Be warned I am the author which means grammar, spelling, and punctuation are not the focal point of these blog entries😉

Actionable Feedback is the best kind of feedback, but most people are horrible at giving great feedback. Then there are those of us that are baffled by the "not great at receiving feedback" and wish we could fix it, but cant.

- Are you ready to Figure out the Feedback Game?

Join The Emotional Bungee Jumpers if you are ready for a learning Experience that will give you super practical ways to build those elusive skills that most "trainings" fall short on.

If you🫵 are up for boosting your Leadership skills or maybe you have some "up and comers" on your team but you just dont have time to help them reach their potential, check out The Emotional Bungee Jumpers.



Monday

The Free Agent Advantage with The Agile Architect by Kinga Vajda

Thursday

How Inconsistent Processes Are Affecting Your Construction Projects by Nialli Inc.


Josh Luebker

The Construction CFO - Taking Commercial Subcontractors From the Chaos of Figuring It Out On Your Own to Organized Success!

3mo

Man you have these unique topics that are so digestible with how to fix the problem we all feel but no one talks about. PS I love reading the “Peace” because I hear it in your voice. 😂

Daryle Delafosse

GSC, Coach & Trainer for PMs at Construction Minutes

3mo

Thanks for the reminder Jesus (Jesse) Hernandez . Yes, guilty! Firehosing ideas and losing their interest in overwhlem. One idea at a time ... got it!!

Craig Gauvreau CRSP

Helping construction companies protect their workers → stop lecturing about rules and start teaching people how to believe in safety | I’ll show you how | Curious about my services? DM me

3mo

This is true for the health and safety person. I’m sure you were talking to me 😆😂😆

Kinga Vajda

“Clearing the Space” since ‘98 | Scaling Leadership, Finding Blindspots & Eliminating Bottlenecks | Trusted by Leaders Who Move Fast—C-Suites, Investors, SBOs… You?

3mo

This is very true, Jesus (Jesse) Hernandez ! People dread you if you push them too much - that is human nature 🙏 It’s also hard not to push when you see things so clearly. Some change feels urgent or becomes tied to our needs. Or, possibly we DID help without pushing, and the investment felt one-sided. Continuous improvers and learners often have a lonely path and I think possibly the narrative can be that we identify them as leaders and the givers, sacrificing by trailblazing alone and reaching back to share information. There’s room to celebrate the lonely, rather than ask more from them! Maybe? I love a good discussion!

Like
Reply
Jesus (Jesse) Hernandez

Trainer for the Trades, making Construction a relationship rich environment while boosting execution in the field and the office😎

3mo

Sometimes we get in our own way, a little self awareness makes the difference😉

To view or add a comment, sign in

More articles by Jesus (Jesse) Hernandez

Explore topics