Sunday, November 22, 2009

Let my people go…

Letting go of things is particularly difficult. We hold on to so many things in our lives, both emotional and physical, that it’s nearly inconceivable that letting something go can be therapeutic until we take the plunge and do it. In the last month, I have thought about letting go in a variety of ways. As a wild year draws to a close and we gather to contemplate what makes us thankful, one of mine is that this is a year where my personal circumstances have forced me to let go of many things I only thought were indispensable – and I am better for it. Recently losing two friends and a former co-worker to their next journey brings the concept top of mind and then has me drawing parallels to other releases. Even reading about the Kellogg’s production shortage on waffles makes me think – “leggo my Eggo”. One of the Buddha’s Noble Truths is that attachment causes suffering. Let go of the attachment and you let go of the suffering.

As virtualwirks partners with more clients and talks to prospects, we find how much attachment still exists to the old traditional notion of working in a building. We are challenged by every possible risk and reason they can think of for why they just can’t let go of the leash. We even see all kinds of variations on hybrid models where people can claim to be virtual, but never fully let go of the desk. The facts and data show virtual workers to be more productive, more focused and even more engaged with their companies than their premise based counterparts. Remote workers are happier, more loyal, and even healthier. We bring case studies, charts, testimonials, and endorsements to the table – all in the name of getting them to let go. It’s working. Once a firm finally gets the courage to go virtual – even on a small scale – the success of the model and its people vindicate them. Getting rid of that attachment relieves their business pain.

Why should letting go in business be any different than our personal lives? Holding on to tradition, listening to your safe side, rationalizing that part of the way is as good as all the way is a natural reaction to releasing fear, doubt and uncertainty. This challenge only makes us more passionate. Thousands of employers and millions of workers continue to let go and go virtual. It’s becoming more comfortable to take the plunge, and it’s fun to get them there. Now if only we can get Kellogg’s production to “leggo my Eggo”.

– Jim

1. Honeysuckle says:

   December 4, 2011 at 2:25 am

   You really found a way to make this whole pcroess easier.