Can’t see the forest for the trees…

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Early on in my career, I once asked a mentor of mine, “Madam, even though you’ve been with this company for roughly 25 years, how is it that you’re able to ask the one question during team problem solving sessions that no one else thinks to pose?”.

She gave me her customary disarming smile and said, “Young man, no matter where your career takes you, always remember:

1) Every day that you walk into your workplace to start the day, imagine that it is your first day at work

2) Every day that you walk away from your workplace at the end of the day, imagine that it is your last day at work

3) Every problem solving team needs at least one person who has the courage to ask that “silly” question. Be that person. After all, every courtroom needs a jester.”