In a previous blog post, we explored the idea that making a significant impact doesn't necessarily require large sums of money or monumental acts. It's more about a philosophy of leaving every situation better than we found it—a condition of the heart, a commitment to positive change regardless of the scale of our actions.

Today, I want to extend that discussion to how this philosophy can profoundly influence our professional lives and businesses. This approach isn't just applicable to our personal lives; it's equally transformative when integrated into our work environments.

From Philosophy to Business Practice

Throughout my career in the retail automotive industry, I've witnessed firsthand the challenges and stigmas associated with business practices in this field. It's no secret that the reputation of deceptive tactics and less-than-transparent dealings have overshadowed the potential for genuine customer service in this sector. However, the principle of leaving things better than we found them can serve as a powerful catalyst for change in any industry.

Implementing Change One Interaction at a Time

Whether it's a conversation with a customer, a negotiation with a vendor, or a meeting with an employee, every interaction offers an opportunity to make a positive impact. By adopting the mindset that we aim to improve every situation—no matter how small—we begin to embed a culture of service and integrity in our business practices.

This commitment means offering products and services that not only meet the needs of our customers but also enhance their overall well-being. It's about ensuring that each client feels valued and satisfied with their purchase, which in turn, cultivates a positive view of our business.

Aligning Business Vision with Personal Values

It's crucial that our business's vision and mission reflect our personal values of service and improvement. We can't profess to want to make a difference and then operate a business that contradicts those ideals. The integrity of our business depends on the consistency of our values in every aspect of our operations.

After living out this mission, the next step to make meaningful change is to communicate and consistently work to instill these values and beliefs into everyone in the organization.  Jon Gordon says, 

“For a  culture to be strong, everyone in an organization must know what they stand for and live these shared principles and core values.”

You can read more about culture from Jon Gordon by clicking here.

Patience and Persistence in Changing Perception

Changing a tarnished reputation or transforming a business culture is no overnight feat. It requires patience, persistence, and a steadfast commitment to our principles. Each positive interaction, no matter how small, accumulates to build a better reputation and a stronger, more ethical business. We must remain committed to this process, knowing that meaningful change comes gradually and with continued effort. Warning! This endeavor is so difficult and incredibily hard that this is where most quit. They aren’t as convicted to their mission as they first thought they were.

Conclusion

In essence, the philosophy of leaving things better than we found them isn't just about improving our immediate surroundings—it's about setting a standard for how we conduct ourselves and our business. By embracing this mindset, we not only foster a positive internal culture but also project this integrity outward, influencing our industry and community in profound ways.

Let's carry this vision forward, ensuring our business practices reflect our deepest values and striving to make a genuine impact—one interaction at a time. This is how we redefine influence, not through grand gestures, but through the consistent, everyday acts that accumulate to create lasting change.

Expect to Win!

#xp2win