I spent some valuable time today explaining to a senior colleague why I couldn't proceed with what I was asked to do. I need some pertinent information from the client before I can move on. He was essentially trying to get me to carry out the task based on my 'experience' while waiting for the pertinent information from the client. I kept trying to get him to see why what he was proposing was an inefficient use of resources.
As we discussed, he said something that initially ...annoyed me but upon further reflection, I realised that it was the most valuable statement in what should have been wasted time.
He asked why I was being so insistent/difficult. He also said that I had been so easy to work with in the past. I was initially annoyed by the statement (I remained respectful). When I thought deeply about his statement, I realised that my 'cooperativeness' was one of the major stressors I dealt with in 2014. I obviously don't intend to do what he's proposing as it is an inefficient use of resources, including my time. I also realised that arguing with him was equally an inefficient use of my time so I stopped.
I decided that this year, I'll do all I can to minimize wasting my time while engaging in productive work. That's the summary of my New Year resolutions.
Tentmakers, please share your business/career related New Year resolutions.
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