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Performance, Not Good Intentions

I attended a week-long training once where I met the author of the book I eventually chose for your Senior Capstone course. 

During the training, he used this phrase often.  I must admit that it took me aback the first few times I heard it.

In the real world of work, it's not about "good intentions."  Many unsuccessful people have the best of intentions, but some never get around to creating the type of performance that is required to get the job done.

In the end, he said, it's not about good intentions.  It's about performance. 

The more I thought about his philosophy, the more I agreed with him.  This has become one of my guiding principles for my work life.  I encourage you to adopt this one too!

As you take your courses, raise your family, or conduct yourself at work each day, think about how often you find yourself using the excuse: "I had good intentions, but. . . "

When you start to say or think those words, stop!  Take a moment to make yourself realize that your intentions do not get the job done. 

It is performance that counts.

To me this speaks volumes about the quest for quality in everything we do. 

©Division of Business, Economics & Mathematics, WVUP, 2011.  Updated 06/05/2012 .  Division Chair:  Steve.Morgan@mail.wvu.edu ;Business Division Office:  Lauriel.Edwards@mail.wvu.edu
Web Page Contact:  pam.braden@mail.wvu.edu West Virginia University at Parkersburg