When You Just Want People to Do Their Job — Holding Standards Without Losing Heart

When You Just Want People to Do Their Job — Holding Standards Without Losing Heart

We’ve all had those weeks.

The kind where the loose ends left by others
somehow land quietly… inconveniently… in your lap.
You’re left holding the line.
And your patience…White knuckles and all.

It’s tempting to let the small stuff slide.
To tell yourself, “It’s not a big deal.”

But as James Clear reminds us:

Culture is shaped by the behaviours we repeat, and those behaviours are shaped by what leaders reward, correct, and model.

Every unspoken drift sends a message.
So does silence.
And clarity? That’s still one of the kindest things you can offer.

If expectations have gone fuzzy,
don’t just hope people will pick up the cues.
Spell it out… again, if needed.
Not with frustration.
With firmness and care.

Culture rarely falls apart in one big moment.
It frays.
Quietly.
Repeatedly.
In the tiny compromises we let pass.

And while you’re steadying what’s slipping,
don’t forget to notice who’s standing with you.

The quiet steadiers.
The consistent ones.
The people who show up with heart and humility.

Pour your energy there.
That’s where manawanui lives.
That’s where momentum begins again.

Something to Consider:
What standard could you re-clarify this week to protect the culture you care about?

With heart,
Mary‑Anne