Set high standards for yourself – and maintain them. Always. It takes effort – but it’s worth it. And it soon becomes quite easy because you can turn high standards into good habits. Setting high standards for yourself puts you in a good position for several reasons:

  • First – it means you’re always in the right ‘frame of mind’ – and if you’re in the right frame of mind, then you’ll perform well.
  • Secondly, most people are actually quite easily influenced – it’s human nature; we all want to fit in. So, if you’re a leader, manager or an influential figure in your workplace, then the people around you will adopt aspects of your style and manner. It’s nice to inspire and positively influence people and, ultimately, it contributes to creating a high performing team.
  • Thirdly, if you ever find yourself in the position of needing to change or criticise or introduce new practices, then people are more than likely to trust you and believe in what you have to say.

A word of caution – this is about setting high standards for yourself! It’s not about laying down the law and being pedantic with your colleagues. Be the person who sticks to the dress code; who turns up on time; who carries out the daily routines; and who knows their subject – do it cheerfully and willingly. And encourage others to help you. You’ll be infectious and the workplace will be better for it.