Unlock The Power of Staying the Same

There is great power to consistency in business. It is an unsung hero that builds trust and recognition, allows us to grow in efficiency, builds employee security and encourages decision making. However, the power of staying the same is often overlooked because it lacks the excitement of change. It is relatively simple to rally energy behind change, however the key to lasting impact is consistency. 

Have you ever seen a rock that has been shaped by a consistent drop of water? A drop of water is not that powerful on its own, however when combined with the power of consistency it has a very significant impact. Some of the largest waterfalls in the world started in this way, over the course of time a single stream forges a new way through the rock. I want to encourage you to be invigorated by the idea of consistency as you see the value and impact it can have in your workplace.

Intentional Consistency

The consistency that I am in favor of is an approach that has been thought out; is aligned with our values and produces good results. There are some ways of staying the same that must be challenged. I am not advocating for consistency based on:

1. stagnant sameness (no growth, no change)
2. stupid sameness (do the same thing expecting different results)
3. stubborn sameness (refusal to change)
4. scared sameness (won’t move, afraid to take a risk, step out in faith)

These are wrong reasons to stay the same and need to be changed. This kind of sameness does not tap into inherent power of intentional consistency.

Consistency in Relationships

Relationships are the fabric of all business; whether it be clients, contractors or employees our level of consistency translates into trust, security and predictability. These attributes are the framework for healthy and productive connections.  No body wants to work with unpredictable people. When people know what to expect it eliminates confusion and brings stability. Jesus is a perfect example of being consistent in relationship. The writer of Hebrews reassures the reader by making this statement:

Jesus Christ the same yesterday and today and forever.

Hebrews 13:8 NIV

This statement is testament to Jesus’ character and is given as an assurance of the promise that He will never leave or forsake us. It means he is dependable and will keep his word. He will not change in an unpredictable way but remains trustworthy. Everybody in the world desires to be in these kinds of relationships.

Frequent change and unpredictability are hard to handle in a relationship. They rob us of peace of mind and can make things feel frantic and unsteady. Both environments are not conducive for a healthy and productive workplace. How consistent are you with the people you work with? Are you hard to predict or are you constant in your approach? 

When companies get consistency right, they start to excel as a brand. Your brand is simply what you deliver repeatedly.  Reputations are forged by delivering the same predictable outcomes consistently. When people know they can count on you, prepare to grow in popularity and value.