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The Ten-Minute Difference

Written by: Zig Ziglar

Article Overview: American workers are basically honest and they are almost always at work on time. However, for most workers, the last one hundred yards to get to work are pretty hectic. There is the mad dash into the parking lot, the rush to the building, the clocking in, the sprint to the coffee pot, and the unloading of bags, briefcases and outer garments. The work day frequently starts five to ten minutes after the paycheck starts.

The Ten-Minute Difference

American workers are basically honest and they are almost always at work on time. However, for most workers, the last one hundred yards to get to work are pretty hectic. There is the mad dash into the parking lot, the rush to the building, the clocking in, the sprint to the coffee pot, and the unloading of bags, briefcases and outer garments. The work day frequently starts five to ten minutes after the paycheck starts.

Typically, workers who are supposed to work until five o'clock usually do exactly that. However, about ten minutes before five they begin to clear off their desks, pack their bags and slip on their outer garments. If video cameras were in place, we would be able to see these people in the three-point sprinter's stance, ready to make a mad exit when the clock strikes five. We would see them hustle to the car, jump in and screech out of the parking lot, complaining about the dangers of the freeways. This approach creates unnecessary stress, reduces productivity, and shortens our life span.

Solution: Get to work ten minutes early and get that cup of coffee. Go to your post and casually prepare your work station. By starting time you can be in full production. At the end of the day, work until five o'clock. Then pack up and head for home. It will be quieter and safer and you will feel more relaxed.

The benefits to this approach are many. First, you'll feel better about yourself because you'll know you've put in a full day's work. Second, you'll be more relaxed and able to accomplish a great deal more. Third, you will impress your employers. I can assure you that over time, when promotions or bonuses are handed out, or if the work force is cut, the employer will invariably retain and promote the employee who gives the ten-minute difference. Give it a try and I'll SEE YOU AT THE TOP!

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Article Tags: briefcases, car jump, coffee pot, cup of coffee, desks, freeways, life span, mad dash, o clock, outer garments, parking lot, paycheck, productivity, promotions, rush, screech, sprint, starting time, unnecessary stress, video cameras



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