What Do I Need to Build?

Be a builder in everything you do.  Add value to every situation you can.   Grow other people every chance you get.  Build relationships to help you grow.

During my career, one message stands the test of time more than anything else.  It was a message that I heard over and over in every situation that required a solution.  If I had a conflict on cost, I was told: “Be A Builder”.  If I was behind schedule, I was told: “Be A Builder”.  If I had a relationship issue with a client or a subcontractor, I was told: “Be A Builder”. In the early years, I always assumed that “think like a builder” meant finding the best technical solution. I thought this would keep the project moving ahead. And this was true.  Stay out of the fray. Focus on building the best you can. The solutions and the outcomes are much better than fighting, litigation, and standing your ground at all costs. 

As the years have gone by it has become much clearer as to what he really meant.  Construction is a microcosm of the world we live in.  We will always have risks, conflicts, delays, and financial struggles. We will face relationship issues as we move through life in both our personal and professional lives.  It is easy to get caught up in the details, the politics, and the conflict.  It is hard not to think of what’s best for you. It is hard not to think of what someone else is trying to get out of it.  When those things arise, step back. Look for the solution that adds value to the situation, the mission, or the cause. Find something to ground the discussion so that everyone can rally around to move things ahead.

In short… Be A Builder:

Build Consensus

Build Relationships

Build Safety

Build Community

Build Knowledge

Build Confidence

Build Trust

Build Equality

Build People

Build Talent

Build Culture

Build Skills

Build Teams

Build Hope and Faith

Build Family

No matter what leadership role you play, you can lead in any situation by being a builder.  You can have an impact. We have all had people in our life that have added value to us or to a situation.  They have helped us and others grow to our full potential.

As human beings always do, we get caught up in the weeds and forget these principals. It does not mean we are bad people or bad leaders. It just means that we are straying off the path for a bit. This happens because of all the stress and pressure that life throws at us.

Ask yourself, “what can build today to add value and be a builder in someone’s life?” Adding value may not be received the first, second, or third time it is given. Being a builder is a long-term game. It is like a thousand-piece puzzle with no picture to guide you. The best approach is to start with the edge. Then find one piece at a time until you get to the heart of the puzzle. When your goal is to bring value to others, all of the pieces will fall into place. Keep your sights on the mission.